Backstage Tour

If you have ever walked past the Theatre Royal Brighton and wondered what happens behind the scenes of such a long-standing building, there is an opportunity coming up on 11 April 2026 to find out. The theatre, which has over 218 years of history and is a Grade II listed building, is opening its doors for a guided backstage tour. It is a chance to see the inner workings of one of the country's oldest theatre venues, which is quite distinct given that part of its structure was actually built using former fishermen's cottages.

The tour is designed to take visitors behind the curtain to see areas that are usually off-limits to the public. During the visit, you get to explore the space where Laurence Olivier once spent time, specifically the area known as the 'gulp bar'. It is also possible to step out onto the stage itself, which offers a different perspective of the auditorium compared to sitting in the audience. The tour provides a look at the practical side of how the theatre operates, moving through the various spaces that keep the venue running.

There are a few practical details to keep in mind if you are planning to attend. The tour is open to adults and children aged 12 and over. Because the building is historic, the access throughout the tour is exclusively via stairs, so it is worth wearing comfortable footwear. You will need to head to the Stage Door on Bond Street to meet the group, and it is recommended to arrive five minutes before the start time to ensure everything runs smoothly. It is a straightforward way to see a different side of a local landmark without the usual performance taking place.