Brighton Open Air Theatre

Inspired by playwright, theatre maker and construction manager Adrian Bunting, the Brighton Open Air Theatre replaces a bowls club in Dyke Road Park that was closed by Brighton Council in 2013. Planning permission was granted to the charity Brighton Open Air Theatre (B.O.A.T) for an open-air amphitheatre staging 22 performances per month between May and September which opened on 9th May 2015. The planned programme features theatre and spoken word but will also include opera and performance on screen and public talks. The grassed amphitheatre has wide lawned terraces with seating for 425 leading down to a sunken flat thrust lawned stage. The highest parts are just 1.5m above the existing footpath, with the stage about the same depth below. This 3-metre acoustic wall acts as an acoustic cushion to dampen noise to the surrounding area during performances. There is a back stage wall for exits and entrances. Lighting is set up when required. The adjacent Pavilion will serve as offices for production staff. When not in use, the amphitheatre can be used as a sitting area for the general public.