Saturday 5th November 2011

Shanklin Theatre open day is in conjunction with the replacement of our present seats (some of which came from Sandown Pier Theatre) with our new Matrix seating system, this will increase our seating to 600 plus which will enable us to have a larger audience capacity and attract bigger named artists.

The theatre will be open between 10 am and 4 pm to anyone and everyone. During the day we will have displays by the Shanklin History Society (of the building through the ages from Institute to present day Theatre) the Town Band recruitment display, Spotlight theatre school display, ‘Face Painting’ & 'Balloon Modelling' for the kids down in the Green Room, which is currently under renovation. In addition we will have refreshments and tours back stage if enough interest is shown.

During the day Wight Satin and the Shanklin Town Brass Band will be performing the first concert with the new seating installed, which will be enhanced by the new sound system. The Friends of Shanklin Theatre (FOST) will be handing over a cheque of £3,500 towards the new sound system, and a further £3,000 towards the painting and decoration of the building. The day will also see the launch of ‘Sponsor a seat’ (priced at £50) which will give the supporter mention on our website, a seat plaque, a certificate and a special reception and tour of the theatre in the new year.

We have approximately 400 members and patrons, with about 100 who help in one form or another at the theatre – cleaning, plumbing, painting, serving behind bar, sweet stall, box office, delivering leaflets and of course acting as Ushers and Usherettes. Many of our volunteers will be present at the Open Day to talk to all who visit the Theatre.

Information 01983 868000