Champions' Tuesday - Champions Chats

Whilst Meghan and Harry were signing their nuptials, Starr Trust Champions were being given a backstage tour of the Theatre Royal Brighton. The tour began at the Stage Door, which hundreds of famous actors have walked through. This beautiful grade II listed theatre holds over 200 years of secrets and intriguing tales.Jackie Alexander, Creative Learning Manager at the theatre, first led us through the unusual backstage area, which we learnt had been constructed over the years from fishermen’s cottages, and we had a glimpse at a dressing room. We learnt about how the scenery used to be painted on the side of the stage which now houses hundreds of lights before visiting the orchestra pit. The highlight was stepping onto the wonderful stage and looking out into the auditorium which seemed interestingly intimate, despite holding nearly 800 seats. We learnt that although theatre can be expensive, for good value tickets we should book the gallery – where prices frequently start at around £10. After sneaking into the Dress Circle to see if the theatre’s resident ghost was present, we were given refreshments and chatted more about the theatres wonderful history.Thank you to Jackie and the Theatre Royal for the fascinating tour – we learnt so much and encourage anyone who hasn’t been to go!