Torbay Theatres Past and Present (PLEASE SEE NEW SITE)

When you think of Torbay you may picture the dramatic cliffs or the beautiful sandy beaches. Perhaps you may know that Agatha Christie was born there. What you probably don’t know is that it has a vibrant theatre scene and played host to the first ever performance of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta “The Pirates of Penzance” in 1879, when the D’Oyley Carte company appeared at the Bijou Theatre in Hyde Road. Although this theatre and the Gerston Hotel of which it was part has since been demolished, a blue plaque can be seen there today to commemorate this significant world première.

Today, Torbay still has a lot to offer from its three main theatres and smaller venues. The largest is The Princess Theatre, situated by the marina in Torquay. This plays host to top West End shows, touring plays, children’s shows and concerts. There is also a bar and café with wonderful views across the bay.

The Babbacombe Theatre on the Babbacombe Downs has the longest summer season in the country. You can enjoy a Variety show from February to October, and there are plenty of local pubs and restaurants around the cliff top to round off an evening’s entertainment.

Then there is the Palace Theatre in Paignton, a beautiful old dame of a theatre in leafy Palace Avenue. Here you can also see plays, operettas (both professional and amateur) and concerts throughout the year.

So, whatever type of show you enjoy, whether it’s “The sound of Music” or “Puppetry of the Penis” you can be sure that Torbay has something to offer whenever you visit. Some things, thankfully never change, and the buzz and excitement enjoyed at a live performance today would have been the same for the Victorian audience when they crowded into a tiny theatre to see that new production called “The Pirates of Penzance”.

Box Offices

Babbacombe Theatre, Torquay 01803 328385
Palace Theatre, Paignton 01803 665800
Princess Theatre, Torquay 0870 241 4120

Bookings can be made directly with the theatre or, in person, at any of the three tourist information offices in Torbay at no extra charge or credit card fee.