By Richard James
Brighton, 30 August 2024 – The historic Brighton Hippodrome opened its doors to the public today, offering a rare glimpse into its storied past and a promising look at its future. This open day, part of a series of events aimed at raising awareness and support for the ongoing restoration project, drew hundreds of visitors eager to explore the venue’s rich history and architectural beauty.
The Brighton Hippodrome, located in the heart of Brighton, has a long and varied history. Originally built as an ice rink in 1897, it was transformed into a circus and later a variety theatre by the renowned architect Frank Matcham in 1901. Over the decades, it hosted a plethora of famous acts, including Laurel and Hardy, The Beatles, and Harry Houdini. However, the venue fell into disuse after its closure as a bingo hall in 2006.
In 2020, the Lambor family, local to Brighton, purchased the derelict building with a vision to restore it to its former glory. The multimillion-pound restoration project aims to revive the Hippodrome as a flexible performance venue, with plans to reopen in May 2026, just in time for the annual Brighton Festival. The restoration has already seen significant progress, including the repair of the roof and initial structural work to preserve the building’s fabric.
Today’s open day was a celebration of both the Hippodrome’s illustrious past and its bright future. Visitors were treated to live performances, including a special appearance by singing barber Peter Joannau, who performed in the same venue that once hosted legends. The event also featured guided tours, allowing attendees to appreciate the intricate Rococo embellishments and the newly restored cupola.
Save Our Hippodrome campaigners were on hand to share the history of the venue and the importance of the restoration project. The open day provided a platform for the community to engage with the project and show their support for the ongoing efforts to save this iconic building.
With planning permission secured and a clear vision for the future, the Brighton Hippodrome is set to become a vibrant cultural hub once again. The restoration project not only aims to preserve the architectural heritage of the building but also to create a space that can adapt to various performances and events. The owners have already obtained a licence for food and drink, ensuring that future visitors will have a complete and enjoyable experience.
As the restoration continues, the Brighton Hippodrome stands as a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving our cultural landmarks. Today’s open day was a reminder of the venue’s rich history and a hopeful look towards its future as a cornerstone of Brighton’s cultural scene.
