dating from 1807, at the back of the
theatre, was converted into dressing
rooms. The stage door was approached
through a twitten, which still exists within
the building.
The theatre, which is Grade II listed
throughout, is one of the few fullyworking ‘hemp houses’. In the early days
of the theatre, fishermen were the most
skilled rope handlers and, when not at
sea, a number were employed by Theatre
Royal Brighton to work the flies. These
days the technical crew still operates the
scenery using ropes and pulley and no
energy is needed to motor this form of
scenery. Some of the reclaimed timbers
used in the construction of the flies may
have been from ships. These timbers can
still be seen today.
If this feature has piqued your interest,
guided tours of this fascinating theatre
are available every Saturday at 11:30am
and last for approximately one hour.
Tickets cost £6 each but group tours are
available on weekdays on request.
Booking in advance is advised to secure
your place. Due to the historic nature of
the building, access is by staircase only
and comfortable footwear is advised.
Please meet in the main foyer five
minutes before the start time where your
tour guide will greet you.
If you are interested, please call 0844
871 7650 or visit www.atgtickets.com/
brighton
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