About Babbacombe Theatre
The atmosphere in this place, you can't beat! Stay kind to it and treasure it all you can ... "
History of Babbacombe Theatre
Then...
The Babbacombe Theatre’s rich history began in 1920 with a humble bandstand. By 1938, the Babbacombe Downs Concert Hall was built, funded by Torquay ratepayers at £8,000, and officially opened on May 27, 1939. Its inaugural summer show, Cabaret Revels, debuted with tickets priced at 3/-, 2/-, and 6d. During WWII, the hall served as a lecture venue for RAF trainees, occasionally hosting performances by ENSA and the RAF Flying Training Command Band. Post-war, the theatre thrived with summer shows, becoming a launchpad for stars like Bruce Forsyth, who headlined in 1955/56. The theatre was saved from closure in 1986 when Colin Matthews took over the venue from the Torbay Council and his vision transformed it into one of the UK’s most successful provincial theatres.
The Theatre Now
Welcome to the Babbacombe Theatre, one of the English Riviera's most loved entertainment venues.
Refurbished in 2006 and led by Managing Director and Producer Colin Matthews, the theatre continues to delight audiences with its acclaimed in-house productions, touring shows and family-friendly entertainment.
As Colin celebrates his 40th year at the theatre, 2026 has already been a landmark year, with him receiving the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for Contribution to Business at the Torbay Business Awards, recognising his outstanding commitment to tourism, entertainment, and the local community.
Alongside the theatre's own spectacular productions, audiences can enjoy performances from some of the UK's best-known entertainers, including Jasper Carrott, Gary Delaney, Gareth Gates, Kerry Katona, G4, Jim Davidson, Lee Mead and Roy Chubby Brown.
The Babbacombe Theatre offers wheelchair spaces, disabled facilities, and a hearing loop system, ensuring live entertainment can be enjoyed by all.
Whether you're visiting for a variety show, musical, comedy performance or family production, you can always expect a memorable theatre experience and a warm Babbacombe Theatre welcome.
For current shows and tickets, visit babbacombe-theatre.com or call the Box Office on 01803 328385.
