Landmark

The Landmark Theatre and Pavilion are set on the seafront against the Runnymede Gardens and make a striking piece of architecture in the dramatic setting of cliffs rising at either side and the sea lapping the rocky coastline behind. The building is ostensibly two 20m high cones, designed to reflect the glass-blowing kilns predominant in the area in years gone by; there also is a third lower cone, adjoining. These are linked by a long single-storey block with entrance to the three areas, and to the Tourist Information shop at one side. Due to the extreme exposure of the site, the brickwork of the cones contains cavity wall insulation with a vapour barrier, and they are sealed with a Tyvec waterproofing membrane. The foyer, with exhibition space, is long with white Carrera marble laid with black grout to give a crazy-paving effect, and the colours are muted shades of blue and grey. To one side, the two-tier Landmark theatre is horseshoe-shape with brightly coloured furnishings to give a vibrant feel. There are four dressing rooms, wardrobe and band room. The Pavilion is a multi-purpose space reminiscent of a winter garden, with overhead light sculpture to reflect the ever-changing sky. There is one dressing-room at rear. The Rendezvous café bar is at the centre with terrace and stunning sea views and serves both patrons and public. The walls throughout curve inwards, but there is a great sense of space and light. Offices are tucked around at the rear. The operator, North Devon Theatres’ Trust, entered administration in January 2017 and the theatre closed. The council brought in Parkwood Theatres as interim operator until the end of 2018. In January 2019 Selladoor Worldwide won a tender to run the venue for a minimum of ten years.