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In 1938 the BABBACOMBE DOWNS CONCERT HALL, as it was originally called, was built and it remained virtually unchanged for almost 50 years, until the present management took over in 1986, when improvements started to be made to enable productions to be staged.
During the last twenty two years the theatre has seen names such as Jethro, Jimmy Tarbuck, Lenny Henry, Elkie Brooks, Steeleye Span, Showaddywaddy & The Drifters. The Babbacombe Theatre also brought stars from West End hit musicals such as 'Phantom of the Opera', 'Me & My Girl', 'Cats' and 'Les Miserables' to headline their own musical shows, and in 2001 Bruce Forsyth appeared, to the total surprise of the audience whilst filming his autobiographical television documentary.
Since MATTHEWS PRODUCTIONS took over the theatre they have extended the season, and it now has the longest running summer season in the country, which lasts nine months. However, with the visiting shows providing early and late dates as well as the now regular Christmas Show the theatre has productions running virtually throughout the year.
The Torbay Theatres are all unique and provide shows and plays to thousands of satisfied patrons every year. However the Babbacombe Theatre, out of all of the theatres in Torquay, is the only remaining unsubsidised venue.
2012 SHOWS - SUMMER SEASON - 'STARDUST' - Various dates from February.
“STARDUST REVIEW” by Alan Enright
After last year’s spectacular 25thanniversary show, I thought Colin Matthews and his hard-working team would struggle to maintain the very high standards that they attained with their “Heatwave” extravaganza, but I needn’t have worried and there is no doubt that they’ve got another hit on their hands.
Comedian, impressionist and vocalist Danny Posthill headlines the bill this year and impresses on every level, and is ably assisted by Ben Nickless, who is making his 4thsummer season appearance at the Babbacombe Theatre. When both were on stage, they had a great rapport, which resulted in some very funny sketches, my favourite being “Two Ladies” early in the second half, which was an homage to the Two Ronnies.
Danny and Ben are well supported in the sketches by a new double act, Barry Elmer and Luke Sampson, runners-up in last year’s Torbay’s Got Talent. Another very versatile couple, they sing and dance well and play a number of instruments. It’s great to see local acts being brought on and, of course, Barry and Luke follow the very talented Holly Cosgrove from 2009’s TGT, who I am pleased to say is back again this year with an even greater stage presence than last year. Eloise Cole, a very elegant vocalist, also returns this year.
The quality of the production numbers is established from the very first curtain-up with the full company creating a very atmospheric performance of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and the entertainment doesn’t flag throughout the whole show. Danze Fantasy, choreographed by Georgia Lee, leave one breathless, and the costumes are impressive.
The two numbers involving the children, one celebrating Olympic year and the other songs from the West End musical “Matilda” were very enjoyable.
Stardust is a treat for all ages and shouldn’t be missed.
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