Bournemouth Pavilion opens its doors for FREE community open day

Bournemouth – This spring, residents and visitors are invited to Bournemouth Pavilion to celebrate the magic of theatre, music and film at their annual free-to-attend open day on Saturday 13 April 2024 between 10am – 4pm

From 10-10:30am, theatre music fans can learn more about the venue’s Compton Organ. Dating back to the theatre’s official open day in 1929, the organ was built specifically for the theatre’s main auditorium. It is now used by musicians who still perform monthly organ recitals.

Acclaimed theatre organist Elizabeth Harrison who plays regularly at Blackpool Tower will demonstrate her talents on the Compton Organ. The theatre’s Steinway grand piano will also be available on stage for music enthusiasts to take a closer look.

The theatre’s projector will be exhibited with short film excerpts to be shown throughout the day on 35mm vintage film. Programmes, photographs and posters from the venue’s archives will be on display in the East Corridor. Children can also take part in a ‘Star Trail’, a fun quiz leading them on a trail of discovery around the iconic venue.

For history enthusiasts, guided tours* will be delivered by local experts and members of the theatre team. Visitors will be shown around the theatre, ballroom, on stage and behind the scenes, with a running anecdotal commentary about the theatre’s history and architecture. Visitors will be able to explore the building’s more intricate workings in the wings and watch backstage footage of areas not previously seen by the public. This includes original stage equipment from the 1930s, the fly floors and the stage loading gallery.

The open day includes a free-to-attend afternoon tea dance. Taking place from 2pm, an assortment of Ballroom, Latin and popular dances will be open to all with live music to be provided by Elizabeth Harrison on keyboard.

Bournemouth Pavilion is operated by registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.