The Theatres Trust

Pier Theatre (Bognor Regis)

  • Theatre ID
    33
  • Built / Converted
    1912
  • Dates of use
    • 1912: Until when not known.
  • Current state
    Extant
  • Current use
    converted to other use (Nightclub)
  • Address
    Bognor Regis, West Sussex, England

Details

The theatre is situated at the shore end of the pier, which itself dates from 1865. Although only a modest example of its genre, the rendered exterior goes some way toward relieving the bleakness of the length of the promenade. As now seen, the front takes the form of a cross wing with pediments at either end, ornamenting otherwise plain flanks. A central segmental pediment is flanked by two short square towers, but the architectural effect is lessened by single storey forward extensions. Originally the main roof had what was described as a ‘handsome dome’ at the centre (the stump of the drum is still visible). The flytower, said to be unsafe, was demolished in 1976. A false floor (theoretically removable) was inserted in 1992 at circle level to provide a dance floor.


Hide all images

000386_small
Side Elevation of the former Pier Theatre, Bognor Regis, 1988
© The Theatres Trust

See all images


Hide further details

  • Other names
    Ocean Bars, Sheiks Night Club
  • Events
    • 1912 Use: Until when not known.
    • 1912 Design/Construction:
      • G C Smith - Architect
    • 1977 - 0 Alteration: fly tower removed (architect unknown).
    • 1992 - 0 Alteration: false floor introduced at balcony level (architect unknown).
    • 1912 Design/Construction:
      • Fred Wilkins Bros(London) - Consultant: Seating
    • 1912 Owner/Management: Bognor Pier Co (Shanly & Carter)
  • Capacities
    • Original: 1400
  • Listings
    • Grade II
  • Dimensions
    • Stage dimensions: Width: 18.2m (50ft)
    • Proscenium width: 1912: 7.2m (23ft 6in)
    • Height to grid: 1912: 11.6m (38ft)

Of the period

Decorative wall  panel on the ante-proscenium, Borough Theatre, Wallsend, 1994
Borough (Wallsend)
Wallsend

Have you seen?

Main entrance of the Brixton Academy
Brixton Academy
London

Protecting theatres for everyone

The National Advisory Public Body for Theatres