Babbacombe Theatre

The Babbacombe Theatre stands in Babbacombe, a coastal area of Torquay in South Devon. It began as a small bandstand in the 1920s, later replaced by a concert hall in 1938. The hall was built low to match the old awning, so all seats sit on one level. In May 1939 the Municipal Orchestra and baritone John Steabben opened the venue. The first Sunday concert was broadcast live from the stage with Redvers Llewellyn. The theatre became an RAF training centre during the Second World War, preparing 27,000 aircrew. After the war it returned to variety shows, launching the careers of stars such as Bruce Forsyth and Roy Hudd. Since 1986 Colin Matthews has owned and directed the theatre, creating summer seasons and Christmas shows. Acts including Frank Carson, Jethro and Jimmy Tarbuck have appeared on its stage. Visitors find a single-level auditorium with 600 seats and restored metalwork and parquet flooring. The proscenium arch was rebuilt after asbestos removal in 2009. The theatre now sits within the English Riviera Geopark. Shows run year-round, with midweek performances and weekend matinees at holiday times. The building remains a focus for local talent and community events.