The Seagull

The Seagull is a theatre and cinema in Pakefield, a suburb of Lowestoft in Suffolk. It is run almost entirely by volunteers from the local community. The venue hosts regional and national touring theatre companies as well as films and other acts. It also runs its own production company known as The Seagull Rep. The slogan for The Seagull is "Transforming the Community through the Arts". The theatre has a main auditorium seating 112, including space for wheelchair users. It also features a recording studio, a dance studio and a bar. The building itself is of Victorian origin and was previously the site of the Morton Road School from 1897 to 1939. It was converted into a theatre in 1967 and reopened as The Seagull after a campaign led by patrons including actress Dame Judi Dench and author Louis de Bernières. Visitors find a varied programme of plays, concerts, charity events, films and live music shows throughout the year. The theatre showcases local talent and regional and national touring theatre companies, musicians and entertainers. In addition to the auditorium, there are three studios for dance and acting schools, rehearsal and performance space. The theatre receives no funding except what it raises through its own activities.