I have fond memories of the Brighton Hippodrome. As a child I regularly was taken to see comedian Max Miller, knowing that he was naughty, yet oblivious to his innuendos. In its last year as a live theatre, I saw the Beatles.

Although my memories will never fade, this magnificent Grade ll* listed building’s position as one of the great entertainment palaces has long disappeared.

And now it’s been given the highest rating for a theatre building at risk by The Theatres Trust. Commenting on the proposal to turn the Hippodrome into an eight screen cinema, actress Penelope Keith, a Trust Trustee, called the plans, “close to heritage destruction.”

Just before the Hippodrome closed as a bingo hall in 2007, I had a tour of the building and was relieved to find the auditorium intact. A photograph taken this year on The Theatres Trust website shows it is still in remarkably good condition.

But the current plans by Alaska Development Consultants would irrevocably alter the listed interior and the Hippodrome would be lost as a live theatre.


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But my objections are not based on sentimental nostalgia. The proposed scheme is limited and unimaginative.

Far more exciting is an idea from Nicholas Allott, managing director for Cameron Mackintosh, the renowned producer of musicals and owner of seven West End theatres.

Together with Marcus Davey, the artistic director of the Roundhouse in London, Allott has proposed restoration of the theatre and turning it into a multi-purpose arts venue similar to the Roundhouse.

This kind of venture is precisely what our city needs, a home for an innovative and exciting mix of theatre, live music, dance, circus and new media.

As with the Roundhouse, the Hippodrome wouldn’t have to rely solely on ticket sales, as it could also generate income from private and corporate hire.

The glamorous venue would attract large companies wishing to hold product launches, parties, award ceremonies and gala dinners, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.

Under charitable status, an artistic programme could be introduced enabling local children and young people to explore the performing arts, visual arts, literature and media. Facilities would include studios for TV, radio and music production, media suites and rehearsal rooms.

The council must reject the current proposal, listen to these theatre industry chiefs and pursue this idea, which will bring a new life to the Hippodrome.

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