I have in my possession a hardback book, approx 9in x 11in, entitled The Brighton Theatre 1814 to 1819, compiled by Mary Theresa Odell and published in 1944.

It chronicles the history of the theatre under the management of Mr Trotter of Worthing.

It contains many illustrations of cast, playbills and a colour print of the old Brighton Theatre.

It also makes reference to the building of the theatre which apparently commenced on September 10, 1806, with the first performance taking place on June 27, 1807, when Miss De Camp (the wife of Charles Kemble) played Ophelia in Hamlet.

It also advises that the theatre cost £12,000 to build, including scenery, wardrobe and managers cottage!

  • Richard Butler of Hove