Bob Hope Theatre

The Bob Hope Theatre is a community theatre in Eltham, part of the Royal Borough of Greenwich. It sits in Eltham Parish Hall, a building constructed in 1910 that once served as a military furniture store during the Second World War. The theatre is owned and operated by Eltham Little Theatre Company, which presents around eleven shows each year. These include a pantomime every January and an annual musical, alongside about fifteen additional productions by visiting companies. The building also hosts events organised by affiliated societies and local groups. The theatre’s history began in 1943 when Eltham Little Theatre Company formed to promote drama and music in the area. Early years were difficult without a permanent home, but in 1946 the company secured a lease on Eltham Parish Hall. By the late 1940s membership had grown to six hundred individuals and twenty-five affiliated societies, with performances staged every other weekend. Fundraising efforts aimed to buy the building, but rising costs led the company to seek support from the Borough Council instead. The council provided grants for running expenses, which continued until the 1980s. The theatre’s survival was secured in 1982 when comedian Bob Hope, born in nearby Craigton Road, helped raise £58,000 to purchase the freehold. Hope’s fundraising included a benefit performance by Dickie Henderson, attended by stars such as Max Wall. The building was renamed The Bob Hope Theatre in his honour. Among its notable alumni are Frankie Howerd, John Ayldon and Jude Law. Today the theatre remains a lively venue for local theatre, music and community events.