Pavilion theatre celebrates 100 years on seafront

The "much-loved" Pavilion Theatre in Worthing has marked its 100th anniversary.

"It has been an anchor on the seafront," said Andrew Whitlaw, head of development at the Worthing Theatres & Museum. "It is an iconic building."

He added that the pavilion which sits on the pier, has "borne witness to Worthing's history".

"There have been no catastrophes," continued Whitlaw. "It has stood the test of time – come hell or high water."

"It is a much-loved institution."

On Thursday, a blue plaque honouring 19th-century businessman and philanthropist James Gurney Denton is set to be unveiled to mark the pavilion's 100th birthday.

"Pretty much everything cultural in Worthing we have was made possible thanks to [his generosity]," said Whitlaw.

Denton, four-time Worthing Mayor, gave Denton Gardens to the town, funded the Assembly Hall, and his legacy paid for the Denton Lounge (now Pavilion Atrium).

"It does not matter who you are, if you want to leave a lasting legacy, you can support the infrastructure in your town," Whitlaw said.

The pavilion, which was inspired by the grand concert halls of Rome, Nice, Vienna and Paris, opened in 1926.

"In the 60s and 70s, the pavilion was huge on the national music circuit," said Whitelaw.

"Some really, really big names played there."

Jimi Hendrix had a gig in the concert hall, according to a flyer displayed on the venue's website.

The building also saw some dark times.

In 1934, Oswald Mosley - the leader of the British Union of Fascists - gave a speech at the pavilion, which sparked a riot.

After a short closure during World War II, the pavilion reopened in 1942 as a garrison theatre.

It has a sprung dance floor beneath the carpets, suiting ballet, circus, and ballroom events.

It continues to host comedy, musicals, live music and dance.

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