Kings Theatre

The Kings Theatre stands in Southsea, a district of Portsmouth on the south coast. Designed by Frank Matcham, it opened in 1907 and remains one of the most complete Matcham theatres in the country. The building is Grade II* listed, recognising its special architectural interest. It sits within a lively seaside community close to the seafront and Clarence Pier. The theatre’s Edwardian façade still greets visitors today. Inside, the auditorium retains much of its original decorative scheme. The theatre has played host to many notable figures and premieres over the decades. In the 1930s it introduced works by Ian Hay before they moved to the West End. Noel Coward, Sean Connery and Spike Milligan all appeared on its stage in the 20th century. Ken Russell filmed part of the rock opera *Tommy* here in 1974 with The Who and Elton John. After a period of decline, a restoration campaign saved the building and returned it to public use. Today the auditorium seats 1,600 and hosts touring shows from ballet and drama to musicals and comedy. Recent restorations have brought back the ornate ceiling, dome and statues, including a new glassfibre Aurora. The dress circle toilets were renovated through crowdfunding in 2016. A major project now plans a new foyer, bar and rehearsal space, keeping the theatre at the heart of Southsea’s cultural life.