White Rock Theatre

The White Rock Theatre stands on Hastings seafront in East Sussex, facing the English Channel. Built in 1927 as the White Rock Pavilion, it replaced the East Sussex Hospital and was opened by Edward, Prince of Wales. The building later became a theatre in 1985 after a 1939 remodelling and a 1985 upgrade. It is owned by Hastings Borough Council and presents touring shows such as opera, ballet, musicals and children’s performances. The theatre has hosted major acts including Motörhead, Russell Brand, Eartha Kitt and Jools Holland. Its auditorium splits into the Stalls and the Circle, with 1 082 seats or 1 620 for standing events. The Stalls has flat and raked areas, while the stage measures 14 m wide and 9.6 m deep. Smaller spaces like the Campbell Room and Studio support community shows and private events. Visitors find a café, the Stalls bar and the Circle bar inside the venue. The theatre’s programme ranges from annual pantomimes to festivals and corporate functions. Its location by the sea and flexible layout make it a lively part of Hastings’ cultural life.