The Hippodrome Theatre, Seaside Road, opened in 1883 as the New Theatre Royal and Opera House, having been granted a Royal Patent by the Prince of Wales.

Mr. C.J. Phipps, a London architect who designed a number of theatres, was asked to draw plans and help raise finance for the scheme. The interior of the new theatre was partly modelled on his, now famous, Savoy Theatre in London. Before the end of the century, most of the famous theatrical personalities of the time had appeared at the theatre, including Ellen Terry and Richard d’Oyly Carte’s Savoy Opera Company.

In recent years the Royal Hippodrome has had a much-needed face lift. Having extended and renovated the foyer in 2019, it has always been our aim to improve the interior of the auditorium in keeping with the beautiful foyer. Thanks to some careful planning and project management from Barney Pout of local company Eden, we have realised the dream of having the entire auditorium redecorated. Alongside this, all seating in the Stalls and Grand Circle has been refurbished and all seating in the Dress Circle has been replaced. With new carpets throughout, we feel now that the lovely Royal Hippodrome auditorium is finally restored to its former glory and we hope you will appreciate and enjoy the theatre as much as we do, when you visit.

Every year the Royal Hippodrome programme is packed with a variety of shows with something for everyone, young and old alike. Highlights throughout the year are, of course, our popular Christmas and Easter Pantomimes which are fun for ALL the family - and affordable too!

As always there are plenty of live music acts, comedians, orchestras, dance shows and full scale musicals. As a Community Theatre we not only are able to offer you first class professional entertainment, but also have many local drama groups, theatre schools, state schools and dance schools using the venue to perform their work. This is such an important part of what we do and we love welcoming new people and giving them the opportunity to experience what this lovely theatre has to offer.

We look forward to welcoming you to the oldest theatre in Eastbourne very soon!