The Friends of Devonshire Park Theatre were formed in said theatre’s Centenary year of 1984 with the purpose of keeping the historic Devonshire Park Theatre going for the enjoyment of Eastbourne residents and those who travel from further afield to enjoy plays performed in this truly beautiful building.
Stepping inside is like stepping into a bygone age of elegance so keeping it running is a very worthy cause.
There are now over 1000 members whose remit, among other things, is to encourage attendance at the theatre, help with decorative projects and raise funds for the theatre’s coffers.
I’ve written, previously, about how charities host garden parties in the summer as fundraising events and the Friends of Devonshire Park Theatre are lucky enough to have members with suitably large and beautiful gardens in which to host such events as well as famous patrons willing to attend and add sparkle to attract the pubic.
Last month, I was delighted to attend one such garden party in Eastbourne. The Mayor was in attendance and actor, Kevin Pallister, one of the Friends’ many famous Patrons, opened the event. There was music, refreshments, stalls to browse and purchase, a raffle and games of targeting skill. Lots of fun to be had and all for a very worthwhile cause.
MUSIC AT THE GARDEN PARTY
PLENTY OF STALLS TO BROWSE
FUN & GAMES
Other events put on by the Friends include celebrity talks and bar receptions. The theatre itself puts on some wonderful plays, often attracting big name stars from across the Pond. Hub and I had the pleasure of seeing Patrick Duffy (Bobby Ewing of Dallas) in Catch Me If You Can.
If you’re within travelling distance of Eastbourne, enjoy the arts and would like to contribute and add a bit of sparkle to your social life, why not consider becoming involved by joining The Friends of Devonshire Park Theatre. You will benefit from discounted show tickets, invites to “meet the cast” first nights, plus social events such as dinners, lunches and quizzes. Perhaps you could contribute some fund-raising ideas. You can be as involved as you wish (or not).
