The History of Brighton Dome

Concert Hall

Inspired by the Corn Exchange in Paris and originally covered with a huge segmented glass dome, this remarkable building was designed as the Prince Regent's riding stables and was finally completed in 1805. Part of the famous Royal Pavilion Estate, it was later converted into a Concert Hall in 1866 and became the most fashionable and culturally significant venue in the south. It was restored again in 1935 with a resplendent art-deco interior, and showcased some of the world's biggest names in entertainment, including Paul Robeson and Richard Tauber in its 1930s opening season. Now following it's grand re-launch in 2002 the biggest names are back at the Dome crossing all art forms from to Dame Kiri Te Kanawa to Lou Reed.

The Dome closed for renovation in 1999 and was then officially re-opened three years and £22m later in 2002 by Princess Anne, with improved sight lines, a seating capacity of 1800 and with the stalls removable for extended performance space. The acoustic has been upgraded to work for both concert performances and amplified sounds, with panels at the rear of the circle able to swivel to give either absorptive or hard surfaces as required.

The venue memorably hosted Abba's victory in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 with 'Waterloo' and other acts who have performed range from Richard Tauber, Paul Robeson and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra to Jimi Hendrix and the Rolling Stones.

The Corn Exchange

The Corn Exchange was built at the same time as the Dome Concert Hall and was originally the Prince Regent's riding house. Little alteration took place with the exception of lighting being added and the gravel floor replaced with wood in 1867. Towards the end of the 19th century, the Corn Exchange was used as an archaeological and geological museum. It is now a unique and versatile venue with a magnificent single span of arched ceiling and a sprung maple floor. It was lovingly restored as part of the recent Brighton Dome refurbishment project.

Pavilion Theatre

Built in 1935, the Pavilion Theatre was first used as a supper room and became a theatre soon afterwards. As well as hosting comedy, dance, theatre and musicals, the Pavilion Theatre is a thriving live music venue proving increasingly popular with both musicians and audiences.