Brookside Theatre

The Brookside Theatre is a small studio theatre in Romford, in the London Borough of Havering. It sits in the centre of the town, a short walk from Romford’s shops and market. The building is a converted social club, now fitted with seating for 194 people. Since opening in 2012 it has become known for lively shows and big-name guests. It stages full-scale productions such as musicals, plays and tribute bands. Past in-house shows include Avenue Q, The Woman in Black and Sweeney Todd. The theatre has also hosted UK or world premieres like Forever Dusty and Goodnight Sweet Sweetheart The Musical. Well-known performers who have appeared include Derek Acorah, Chesney Hawkes, T’Pau and Cheryl Baker. Local companies, volunteers and donations keep the theatre running without outside funding. Visitors find a single auditorium with tiered seating and good sight-lines. The programme changes every few weeks, mixing comedy evenings with concerts and celebrity appearances. Nearby stands the restored Romford War Memorial, a reminder of the building’s earlier life. The theatre’s atmosphere is lively, with a mix of local supporters and touring acts.