Congress Theatre
Latest Reviews
A friend and me came here to see the Saturday evening performance of Priscilla Queen of the Desert. The theatre is a lovely size with traditional decor. There is a large bar area, with not too many seats, but we didn't arrive too early so didn't mind standing for a bit. A large glass of wine is about £4.50 and a small tub of ice cream in the interval was £2.50. So quite reasonably priced.
All staff members we spoke to were very friendly and helpful.
The seats are comfy and not too small or too close together.
The toilets are clean and there are lots of them on each floor, so although I had to queue for a bit it wasn't as long as in some theatres I have been to.
The show itself was fab and overall was a great night.
All staff members we spoke to were very friendly and helpful.
The seats are comfy and not too small or too close together.
The toilets are clean and there are lots of them on each floor, so although I had to queue for a bit it wasn't as long as in some theatres I have been to.
The show itself was fab and overall was a great night.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Wow, wow, wow. What a fantastic show. The whole cast were superb. If you get a chance go and see it. The congress is a lovely theatre and the staff were all very friendly. Lovely ice cream! Can't wait to visit again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a terrific show Tommy may be getting on a bit as they say but he is still one of the best to watch. We saw him many years ago in London and would happily see him again anytime. The audience were with him all the way singing and clapping in time with the music.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Tommy Steele and all the cast members were fantastic in The Glenn Miller Story.
The band were fabulous.
My husband, Dad and I had a wonderful time. I would thoroughly recommend this show, you come out with a song in your heart and tapping your feet!
The band were fabulous.
My husband, Dad and I had a wonderful time. I would thoroughly recommend this show, you come out with a song in your heart and tapping your feet!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a wonderful show! The cast were great but Tommy Steele 'SHONE'. I remembered him when I was a young girl singing 'Little White Bull' and always loved his cheeky smile and that twinkle in his eye. He's now in his late 70's and a true performer. He's still got the cheeky smile and the twinkle in his eye! Doing two shows in one day is exhausting for a younger person yet he;s doing it. I like him even more now.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Truly wonderful show 'The Glenn Miller Story' starring the iconic Tommy Steele was a total treat. Tommy Steele gives a touching and exuberant performance as the charismatic band leader. Amazing achievement not least because Tommy Steele is 80 this year! Great supporting cast too, fab big band, terrific energy from all involved.
The Congress is not the most welcoming venue - cold and draughty foyer with long queue for prepaid tickets while other two cashiers stood idle. Lots of steps and harsh lighting in public areas.
But seats are good and reasonable prices, decent range of beers at the bar, nice usherettes and plenty ladies toilets!
The Congress is not the most welcoming venue - cold and draughty foyer with long queue for prepaid tickets while other two cashiers stood idle. Lots of steps and harsh lighting in public areas.
But seats are good and reasonable prices, decent range of beers at the bar, nice usherettes and plenty ladies toilets!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Our third time to see the show and once again it was superb. All of the cast were excellent including the narrator. A show where there are truly no dry eyes in the house. For those unfortunate enough not to have seen the show, you have missed something special. This was our second visit to the Congress and on both occasions we have been impressed with the theatre, such good leg room and comfortable seats
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I must admit Blood Brothers is my favourite show ever I have seen it 10 times - Last night was the first time I had been to Eastbourne to see the show and it was incredible - the Theatre Staff were all really friendly and helpful, the Seats were comfortable and had decent space between them, the facilities were really good, I thought the Bar Staff were really happy and wanted to be there, all in all it was a great experience - would go back to Eastbourne to watch another Production - they do it so well - Blood Brothers was awesome as well - Lyn Paul by far the best lady to play Mrs Johnson.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Last night we went and watched Blood Brothers and oh my God what a fantastic show I've seen lots of shows and this to me was on par with how good the lion king I'd in London (obviously very different storylines) for years we said we would go watch it and never did so I got me and my dad tickets for his christmas present. The only show that has ever nearly made him cry. Fab cast! Congress was quick last night too we picked our tickets up within 5 minutes and got a drink reasonably price and so is the half time ice cream the pots have got bigger and they are cheaper so win win. Great night!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What an amazing show...went to London a couple of years ago to see this show and were blown away by it, and Thurs night's show at the Congress didn't disappoint, just incredible, the quality of the singing was superb and the storytelling really good...we have been many times to various shows, bee gees tribute superb, motown dancing in the streets amazing, hairspray amazing, but this show really is the best...always have to have the one person that just can't switch their phone off though, and took a call right in a narrative part, so off putting and so rude..and talking of rude, why is it that people who decide to Leave 10 mins before the show ends have to disturb all those around them, so selfish. But by and large, our visit was so enjoyable, looking forward to priscilla and Chicago next season, and hoping for a really impressive summer season show.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a show! From the innovative way the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons was laid out to the scenery and scene changes it was very clever. Then we get to the actors, amusing and believable with absolutely fantastic singing.
The theatre itself was well set out the view of the stage very good.
The theatre itself was well set out the view of the stage very good.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went to see the All Star 60s show - it was brilliant.
Our first time at the Congress Theatre, it is large, attractive and comfortable. The auditorium is square-shaped rather than curved. There is a bar for interval drinks etc but with very few seats.The performers from the first half were on-hand and were very informal.
Our first time at the Congress Theatre, it is large, attractive and comfortable. The auditorium is square-shaped rather than curved. There is a bar for interval drinks etc but with very few seats.The performers from the first half were on-hand and were very informal.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went to see this 80s musical starring David Hasslehoff on Saturday night. Having read some pretty scathing reviews before we went I was not expecting much. But what a pleasant surprise! This production is exactly what is says on the tin. It is an energetic visually impressive blast from the past. The lighting, costume design and choreography are all fantastic. Well worth the trip and I can definitely recommend this show for a fun night out!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Great modern Theatre with so much space front of house compared to the older Theatres. Plenty of seating areas in the foyer before you go into the hall, and spacious toilets.
The Theatre itself has great views from all the seats. We watched Sweet, Mud, and The Rubettes. Sound quality was good.
The only thing that distracted me from the show were the ushers running around the audience telling people not to take photos. In this day and age everyone takes photos and for staff to be running around the Theatre was a big sad state of affairs
The Theatre itself has great views from all the seats. We watched Sweet, Mud, and The Rubettes. Sound quality was good.
The only thing that distracted me from the show were the ushers running around the audience telling people not to take photos. In this day and age everyone takes photos and for staff to be running around the Theatre was a big sad state of affairs
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Been to a few theatres in my time and sadly the Congress let the side down.
The audience at my visit was 85/15% in favour of the female sex the theatre far from full so the staff were not overworked. In fact far from it they watched the show some of the time and if they were not smoking just outside the doors to the bar area during the performance they were letting someone as the smell was overpowering.
Warm drinks at the interval, ice cream that was melting and with a fair few women a queue for the ladies at the interval on the middle floor as large as a whale. No one directing these women to the 2 other floors where the queues were much less.
So that was the little things. The one major problem was the sound. It was extremely hard to hear the actors almost to the point of questioning were they fitted with a microphone at all.
Such a shame as in a seaside town showing signs of neglect the theatre could be such a draw and boost to the local economy.
It was more like a working men's club than a theatre.
The audience at my visit was 85/15% in favour of the female sex the theatre far from full so the staff were not overworked. In fact far from it they watched the show some of the time and if they were not smoking just outside the doors to the bar area during the performance they were letting someone as the smell was overpowering.
Warm drinks at the interval, ice cream that was melting and with a fair few women a queue for the ladies at the interval on the middle floor as large as a whale. No one directing these women to the 2 other floors where the queues were much less.
So that was the little things. The one major problem was the sound. It was extremely hard to hear the actors almost to the point of questioning were they fitted with a microphone at all.
Such a shame as in a seaside town showing signs of neglect the theatre could be such a draw and boost to the local economy.
It was more like a working men's club than a theatre.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went to see Jasper Carrott Stand Up and Rock - brilliant show. No problems with the theatre. We had great seats. The sound quality was good. Chocolate selection not that expensive, unlike some venues. Toilets were clean. Staff polite and friendly
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Our second visit to this theatre in a year. Excellent variety of acts appearing here. The venue is looking much better now that most of the scaffolding is down. The floors in the bar areas are still being worked on but it is beginning to look much improved. Seats are ok with a good view of the stage.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The Congress Theatre, Eastbourne, is well worth a visit and has built up a reputation for providing high class entertainment.
An excellent recent example of this was Joe Pasquale's show, on August 27, 2015.
Joe Pasquale is far more than a squeaky voiced comedian. Like the late, great Tommy Cooper, he has the knack of making audiences dissolve into hysterics without even opening his mouth.
Proof of how good he is came at the Congress where local funny man Tucker and ventriloquist Steve Hewlett were among audience members convulsed with laughter.
Pasquale was at his best when joined by his tour manager Ray Tizzard, AKA Raynard, his 'twin brother'.
Raynard was even nuttier than Pasquale as he bounded around in his underpants adding to the mayhem. “What did I tell you in the dressing room?” demanded Joe. “Don't do that in the sink,” retorted Raynard.
Like the immortal Cooper, Joe uses a variety of props and magic tricks. But the man who became King of the Jungle in I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here has his own unique routines. Who else would begin their act by hitting marshmallows into the audience with a cricket bat and then attaching a basketball net to their head for us to throw them into?
I once had the pleasure of interviewing Joe, and included him in my celebrity book My Life With The Stars. I found him to be so friendly and helpful - and he has some laugh-out-loud stories to tell.
The Congress Theatre has also staged some great musicals and featured dancing stars Erin Boag and Anton du Beke. There are a lot more top shows coming up including International Stars of Magic and Variety on Saturday September 26th, The Full Monty starting on Monday October 5th and Paul Potts in concert on Saturday October 31st
An excellent recent example of this was Joe Pasquale's show, on August 27, 2015.
Joe Pasquale is far more than a squeaky voiced comedian. Like the late, great Tommy Cooper, he has the knack of making audiences dissolve into hysterics without even opening his mouth.
Proof of how good he is came at the Congress where local funny man Tucker and ventriloquist Steve Hewlett were among audience members convulsed with laughter.
Pasquale was at his best when joined by his tour manager Ray Tizzard, AKA Raynard, his 'twin brother'.
Raynard was even nuttier than Pasquale as he bounded around in his underpants adding to the mayhem. “What did I tell you in the dressing room?” demanded Joe. “Don't do that in the sink,” retorted Raynard.
Like the immortal Cooper, Joe uses a variety of props and magic tricks. But the man who became King of the Jungle in I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here has his own unique routines. Who else would begin their act by hitting marshmallows into the audience with a cricket bat and then attaching a basketball net to their head for us to throw them into?
I once had the pleasure of interviewing Joe, and included him in my celebrity book My Life With The Stars. I found him to be so friendly and helpful - and he has some laugh-out-loud stories to tell.
The Congress Theatre has also staged some great musicals and featured dancing stars Erin Boag and Anton du Beke. There are a lot more top shows coming up including International Stars of Magic and Variety on Saturday September 26th, The Full Monty starting on Monday October 5th and Paul Potts in concert on Saturday October 31st
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Easy to book over the internet.
Good views from seats
Staff most helpful
Westend shows of high standard.
Good views from seats
Staff most helpful
Westend shows of high standard.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Expensive yet they couldn't put air con on. Was hot and stuffy. Saw the show 'Annie' which left half of the songs out and added new ones that I'd never heard. In hindsight, we would not have gone. Very disappointing.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Fantastic show with all the cast excellently cast. The singing was awesome from everyone, Annie was just amazing. Such a powerful voice coming from one so young, as well as great acting. The show was spell binding, even though of course we knew the story. I went with my 2 granddaughters aged 15 and 18 as birthday treats and we all 3 enjoyed a special evening. I highly recommend - fabulous to see West end quality shows affordable in Eastbourne.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
this is the first time we have seen alan live really enjoyed the show the only thing that i did see was no programes or any dvds on sale
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited this theatre in Eastbourne to see 'Spirit of the Dance' which was outstanding!
Very lively show with breath-taking music, lighting and special effects. I enjoyed the different style of dance - flamenco, Scottish, and irish, very energetic. Loos clean.
Staff at snack counter friendly. Had one old guy decide to sit next to me after the first interval but I didn't mind because he was friendly and was happy to converse. Appeared to be popular with an elderly audience. Congress Theatre still undergoing some refurb so scaffolding a bit off putting and hides a lot of the theatre building. Cab space right outside the entrance. A good show which definitely blew away the cobwebs!
Very lively show with breath-taking music, lighting and special effects. I enjoyed the different style of dance - flamenco, Scottish, and irish, very energetic. Loos clean.
Staff at snack counter friendly. Had one old guy decide to sit next to me after the first interval but I didn't mind because he was friendly and was happy to converse. Appeared to be popular with an elderly audience. Congress Theatre still undergoing some refurb so scaffolding a bit off putting and hides a lot of the theatre building. Cab space right outside the entrance. A good show which definitely blew away the cobwebs!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited the theatre to see Top Hat. Wonderful show, recommend it to anyone. The theatre is a lovely establishment, especially now that all the scaffolding has been removed. The theatre staff are so customer focused, polite and extremely helpful. The theatre is well laid out, the seats comfortable and offset to those in front which makes viewing the stage very good. The only thing that appears lacking is appropriate air conditioning to meet periods of high temperature. This was our third visit to the theatre and every one has been so enjoyable and left us on a high.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
If you love Fred Astaire, get to see Top Hat in Eastbourne this week - it is fantastic!
Congress Theatre is very comfortable, lobby is slightly dated but in process of being updated. Excellent Pinot Grigio at £15/bottle, take cash for the bars, as they were not taking credit cards yesterday
Congress Theatre is very comfortable, lobby is slightly dated but in process of being updated. Excellent Pinot Grigio at £15/bottle, take cash for the bars, as they were not taking credit cards yesterday
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
