Local Reviews
In October 2013, Viscount812 said about White Rock Theatre
I feel sorry for the White Rock. The staff have worked under a succession of management companies and seem to be constantly criticised by the owners of the theatre, Hastings Borough Council. Until recently the number and quality of productions had not competed with the theatres along the coast at Eastbourne. But they are trying and a number of new initiatives have been taken this autumn with fresh billings that are likely to attract.
The auditorium at the White Rock sits back into the cliff behind. It is unusual in being a lot wider than it is deep - hence the stage is very wide. The décor of the auditorium really does need some refurbishment as it is finished in cream (white?) with some strange buttock shaped fittings on the walls - it has all the atmosphere of a bus station. Darker paint and drapes combined with more subtle lighting would improve it so much......
The lobby and restaurant of the theatre are excellent, with two smallish bars. In fact the décor is better than that of the auditorium itself. The restaurant is on the first floor with superb panoramic views of the sea. Whilst offering value for money, the food menu is very limited to the chicken and burger type of fayre. This puzzles me as there must be an opportunity here to do something different from the vast majority of food outlets in Hastings and St Leonards, which are also of the chicken ..... you get the picture.
Parking is easy if you arrive early. However, again the local council have extended parking charges so that local on street and car park parking is charged for in the evenings. Parking at Eastbourne theatres is free.
There are some really good productions scheduled this autumn. The theatre needs to enjoy local support to succeed. But most of all, I get the feeling that it needs far more support from the local council that owns it.
The auditorium at the White Rock sits back into the cliff behind. It is unusual in being a lot wider than it is deep - hence the stage is very wide. The décor of the auditorium really does need some refurbishment as it is finished in cream (white?) with some strange buttock shaped fittings on the walls - it has all the atmosphere of a bus station. Darker paint and drapes combined with more subtle lighting would improve it so much......
The lobby and restaurant of the theatre are excellent, with two smallish bars. In fact the décor is better than that of the auditorium itself. The restaurant is on the first floor with superb panoramic views of the sea. Whilst offering value for money, the food menu is very limited to the chicken and burger type of fayre. This puzzles me as there must be an opportunity here to do something different from the vast majority of food outlets in Hastings and St Leonards, which are also of the chicken ..... you get the picture.
Parking is easy if you arrive early. However, again the local council have extended parking charges so that local on street and car park parking is charged for in the evenings. Parking at Eastbourne theatres is free.
There are some really good productions scheduled this autumn. The theatre needs to enjoy local support to succeed. But most of all, I get the feeling that it needs far more support from the local council that owns it.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In November 2013, Nickguest1 said about White Rock Theatre
What a great evening at the White Rock with Nigel Kennedy.
A fantastic venue which allowed you to enjoy great sound and to be close to one of the worlds greatest violinists.( Nigel said that the acoustics were great)
Yes the theatre needs some attention and yes its small but come on stop moaning because the more support we give such venues when they put on such amazing artists the better things will get.
A fantastic venue which allowed you to enjoy great sound and to be close to one of the worlds greatest violinists.( Nigel said that the acoustics were great)
Yes the theatre needs some attention and yes its small but come on stop moaning because the more support we give such venues when they put on such amazing artists the better things will get.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In January 2014, Fakorn said about White Rock Theatre
The White Rock is a lovely theatre with a great seafront location looking over the (soon to be restored) pier. The cafe is open even if you are not going to a show, and they have an eclectic programme of plays, concerts, comedy, kids shows and charity events. Best recommendation: The Gang Show, with a cast of over 100 local Scouts and Guides, live orchestra, and almost 3 hours of fun entertainment!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In January 2014, KnowledgeableEater said about White Rock Theatre
Really enjoyed the panto, but where are the bars for that pre show, mid show drink - can get a bottle of beer and a glass of wine from the cafe while two bars stand idly empty.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2014, Kirstyleah10 said about White Rock Theatre
Staff really attentive and friendly, theatre cosy and in a lovely part of Sussex. Lovely atmosphere and great views from restaurant
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2014, Hastleon said about White Rock Theatre
Saw Jason Manford at the weekend, nice venue, toilets were clean, drinks weren't too expensive for a theatre but I would recommend pre-ordering drinks from the bar for the interval, we didn't and didn't get served until the bell went
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2014, Jackie E said about White Rock Theatre
We have enjoyed many performaces and Pantomimes at the White Rock Theatre.
We especially enjoy the performaces put on by the White Rock Theatre Summer Youth Project. We're really looking forward to this years production "HAIRSPRAY" A lovely cosy, welcoming theatre with the feel of being at a London show but without the cost. Deffo recommend Theatre and restaurant.
We especially enjoy the performaces put on by the White Rock Theatre Summer Youth Project. We're really looking forward to this years production "HAIRSPRAY" A lovely cosy, welcoming theatre with the feel of being at a London show but without the cost. Deffo recommend Theatre and restaurant.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2014, Sue H said about White Rock Theatre
Staff were extremely friendly and helpful at the theatre. Everything was well organised and brilliant show. We had a pre show dinner in the cafe. The food was great and again staff were friendly, helpful and very cheerful. This was our first visit and would definitely come again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2014, Robin S said about White Rock Theatre
Went and saw Buddy for my father in laws birthday, lovely theatre, nice big stage so there didn't seem to be any disadvantage with viewpoints if you were sat anywhere, either upstairs or down. Merchandise reasonably priced and the big bonus only £2 for a nice cream tub very nice
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2014, MilkoHastings_UK said about White Rock Theatre
The White Rock is a good local theatre offering a wide variety of shows with touring companies, comedians and bands. Children are often catered for in school holidays and clubs run for the budding Thespians. Local events also feature - look out for Beatles day around Easter.
The annual festivals allow all kinds to showcase their talents.
The auditorium is good, leg room downstairs is just acceptable (I am 6'3") but balcony is uncomfortable for the taller person. Sounds and lights good but possibly come with the acts. Temperature is usually comfortable even in winter / summer.
Bar has limited offer but OK. Bitters in bottles. interval drinks bookable.
The annual festivals allow all kinds to showcase their talents.
The auditorium is good, leg room downstairs is just acceptable (I am 6'3") but balcony is uncomfortable for the taller person. Sounds and lights good but possibly come with the acts. Temperature is usually comfortable even in winter / summer.
Bar has limited offer but OK. Bitters in bottles. interval drinks bookable.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk