Theatre Friends celebrate

Formed in 1984, to mark the theatre's centenary, the Friends was the idea of Mike Ramsden, the Assistant Director of Tourism (Theatres).

Devonshire theatre manager Peter Felgate was suitably impressed with Mikes idea and they, along with a group of enthusiastic theatre goers, who had a genuine interest and a love of the performing arts, in a building rich with heritage and unique architecture, formed the organisation which became known as the Friends of the Devonshire Park Theatre.

Secretary of the Friends, Jackie Knights, said there is plenty on offer to entice people to join and be actively involved in this popular group.

Jackie said: "Members are encouraged to experience live theatre particularly on opening nights, when not only do they receive an exclusive discount, but they also get to meet the cast in the theatre bar, or at an occasional after show buffet."

In addition other activities include monthly social events with a wide variety of speakers and entertainment, fairs, concerts, weekend trips, along with ambitious fund raising events, which Jackie said the Friends are extremely proud of: "Practical support to the theatre and theatre goers has developed over the years and one of the first examples was the audio-description equipment and service for people who are blind, partially sighted or hearing impaired."

The service, which is available on Friday evening and Saturday matinee performances, gives a detailed description of the performance and sets, through headsets.

Since then money the Friends has raised has been used to extensively refurbish various parts of the theatre. These include the theatre bar, seats and carpets in the Stalls, the Dress and Upper Circle, replacement of lighting equipment and the repainting of the safety curtain; a unique feature which depicts a scene of Eastbourne's seafront at the turn of the 19th century based on an original drawing by the late Michael Stringer.

Jackie said: "The Friends are justifiably proud of their fund-raising and have raised over 200,000 in the past twenty five years."

In 1995 and 2005 the Devonshire was voted one of the top three most welcoming theatres in the country a tribute to the caring attitude of staff and the dedication of the voluntary stewards.

Jackie said: "In 1997 the Friends initiated the Stewarding service which assists the front of house staff. At most performances stewards welcome people, sell programmes, and assist people with disabilities to their seats."

In 1997 the Friends published a book on the history of the Devonshire called, 'The Playhouse in the Park'. Written by local author Edward Thomas, almost 1,500 copies have been sold.

An up-dated version is currently being worked on to coincide with with the 125th anniversary of the theatres opening.

Jackie said for those looking for an opportunity to play a unique part in supporting the theatre and the Friends in the work they do, the Friends administer a 'Seat Sponsorship' scheme.

She said: "For twenty five pounds any member of the public, or company may sponsor a seat. This can be done in your own name, or on behalf of someone you wish to honour or remember. In recognition of this donation a plaque will be attached to the seat with the name of the person to be honoured or remembered."

A quarter of a century on the Friends continue to support Eastbourne's thriving, much loved Victorian theatre and has approximately 1,800 members.

For further information visit the website at: www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk, or contact Jackie on (01323) 720198 or via email at: [email protected]