One of Bournemouth’s most historic buildings will be throwing open its doors tomorrow, Saturday, for its annual free behind the scenes open day.
Bournemouth Pavilion is celebrating 95 years of delivering entertainment and culture to the local community this year.
Since opening in March 1929, the venue has seen years of ongoing redevelopment, maintenance, and refurbishment to create the impressive theatre, ballroom, and bars.
The building received Grade II listed status in 1995.
Valued for its cultural, architectural, and historic importance, Bournemouth Pavilion welcomes thousands of visitors every month.
The venue brings more footfall to businesses such as hotels, bars, and restaurants to boost the local economy and provide year-round culture.
Events such as tea dances, free-to-attend open days, and community performances are held regularly to invite visitors to learn more about the venue’s importance to the BCP region.
The theatre is also home to the Compton Organ, one of the few remaining instruments of the 550 initially installed in churches, cinemas, theatres and concert halls between 1926 and 1939.
Compton Organ Shows are held throughout the year in partnership with the Pavilion Organ Fund to continue to raise funds for the organ’s continuous maintenance and restoration.
Bournemouth Pavilion is operated by registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
Steve Turner, BH Live’s Associate Director of Venues said: “Bournemouth Pavilion is valued by so many for its history, culture, and architectural significance.
“95 years is such an incredible milestone to reach.
“Every year we deliver a diverse theatre programme – from pantomimes to operas – to continue the Pavilion’s purpose to entertain as many visitors as possible.
“We want to thank everyone who has shown their support by visiting this magnificent venue over the past nine decades.
“Here’s to many more years to come!”
The annual free-to-attend open day is from 10am to 4pm.
Christian Knighton, Technical Co-ordinator, said visitors would be able to see the flying system used on stage to move scenery, up and down, as well as the dressing rooms, ballroom, Lucullus Room and other features.
“There’s a lot to see and I think people will find it very interesting,” he said.
Guided tours are also taking place with limited availability.
More details of the open day can be found here.
Compton Organ shows are being held this year from April-August.
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