Gardner Arts Centre

The Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts stands on the University of Sussex campus at Falmer, just outside Brighton and Hove. The building is a mid-20th-century modernist structure designed by Basil Spence. Three red-brick rings form the exterior, with the innermost ring housing the auditorium. The design reflects the unity of all arts through its concentric circles. It was originally opened in 1969 as the Gardner Arts Centre. After a period of closure and refurbishment, it reopened in 2016 under its current name. The centre is worth visiting for its flexible performance spaces and interdisciplinary programme. The auditorium can be arranged for end-stage, theatre in the round or thrust stage performances. Rehearsal studios and specialist lighting, sound and audio-visual equipment support a wide range of events. The building also hosts film screenings, music, discussions and debates. It commemorates Richard Attenborough, former chancellor of the university, and his daughter Jane, who died in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Visitors find a Grade II* listed building with a café and bar in the refurbished interior. The exterior remains unchanged from Basil Spence’s original design. The flexible auditorium seats 350 or accommodates 480 standing. The centre’s programme includes dance, live art and music alongside talks and film. It is Britain’s first campus-based university arts centre. The building’s design and programme make it a distinctive cultural venue in the region.