Business Details
50+ Years
experience
The Stables Theatre & Arts Centre in Hastings
The Stables Theatre & Arts Centre was founded in 1955 with a mission to preserve historic architecture while fostering artistic excellence. Originally a 1746 stable block slated for demolition, our venue was saved through community efforts and transformed into a thriving theatre. As a registered charity (No. 211361) and company limited by guarantee (No. 591781), we operate entirely through dedicated volunteers who contribute technical expertise, artistic vision, and operational support. Over six decades, we've expanded facilities while maintaining our commitment to accessible arts programming, hosting ten in-house productions annually alongside external performances, art exhibitions, and educational initiatives. Our volunteer-led model ensures cost-effective operations while maintaining high artistic standards, evidenced by our membership in the Little Theatre Guild of Great Britain.Strategic partnerships with international theatres, including Chicago Heights Drama Group, enhance our cultural offerings. Continuous investment in infrastructure, including 2014's state-of-the-art auditorium seating, demonstrates our dedication to audience comfort. Through youth theatre programs, book clubs, and community events, we serve as Hastings' cultural hub while preserving our historic building's integrity. Our transparent governance model, with elected producing teams and documented procedures, ensures sustainable artistic direction. This combination of heritage preservation, community engagement, and artistic innovation defines our enduring contribution to East Sussex's cultural landscape.
Services
Theatre Productions
Art Exhibitions
Volunteer Programs
Audition Opportunities
Event Bookings
Youth Theatre
Community Events
Membership Schemes
Sponsorship Packages
Parking Hire
Details
- Year established: 1955
Highlights and features
- We have been operating since 1955, preserving historic theatre culture
- Our venue offers a diverse range of theatrical and arts events annually
- We are entirely volunteer-run with specialist technical expertise
- Our facilities include state-of-the-art auditorium seating since 2014
- We maintain international partnerships for cultural exchange programs
Associations and certifications
- Charities Commission
- Companies House
Services
Theatre Productions
We produce ten in-house theatrical performances annually alongside external productions. Our programming includes classic plays, contemporary works, and experimental pieces. The venue hosts international exchange productions through partnerships with global theatre groups.
Art Exhibitions
Our dedicated art galleries showcase rotating exhibitions by local and national artists. The program includes solo and group shows across various mediums. Exhibitions run concurrently with theatre seasons, creating multidisciplinary cultural experiences for visitors.
Volunteer Programs
We offer volunteer opportunities in technical theatre, administration, and event management. Volunteers contribute to all aspects of operations, from set design to front-of-house services. Training is provided for roles in lighting, sound, and stage management.
Youth Theatre
Our youth theatre program provides drama education and performance opportunities for young people. Participants learn acting techniques, stagecraft, and collaborative performance skills. The program culminates in regular public productions.
Event Bookings
We offer space rental for private and corporate events. The venue accommodates performances, meetings, and special occasions. Our facilities include modern seating and technical equipment for professional presentations.
Questions
How can I book theatre tickets?
Tickets can be booked through our online system or by calling 01424 423221 during box office hours (Mon-Sat 10:30am-1pm).
Are there volunteer opportunities available?
Yes, we welcome volunteers in technical theatre, administration, and event management. Contact our volunteer liaison for details.
What is the theatre's history?
The venue originated as a 1746 stable block saved from demolition in 1952. It opened as a theatre in 1959 and has expanded facilities since.
Do you offer educational programs?
Yes, we run youth theatre workshops, book clubs, and drama classes for young people throughout the year.
Can I exhibit artwork at the theatre?
Artists can submit proposals for our gallery exhibitions. Details about submission processes are available on our website.
Is the venue accessible?
Our facilities include accessibility features. Check our website for specific accessibility information and seating plans.
Videos
Reviews (7)
P. C. Miller
Dec 18, 2021
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A fantastic local theatre company, arts centre and venue. Very friendly and exceptionally high production values for an amateur theatre. Highly recommended!
Bradley Barker
Dec 16, 2021
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Went there to see a mate perform snow Queen and was blown away by the performance. There was this great blue flower character who didn't say much but was definitely my favourite character
Ade Smith
Nov 22, 2021
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Went to see blue stockings last night. Was greated by two friendly ladies in the reception area. Me and my girlfriend got ourselves a nice tea and coffee and went for a walk round the building. There is artwork on the ground floor. A nice cosey bar upstairs and a gallery next to the bar. The auditorium is nice but the steps can be a bit steep. There are two entrances though. One on the ground floor and one upstairs. Parking was fine and right by the door. I would definately go again.
R. Day
Nov 13, 2021
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A lovely cosy theatre. Seen some excellent shows here that are always great value for money and that includes the drinks at half time. Highly recommend
Janice Bonney
Jul 25, 2021
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We received a warm welcome back with well-organised, distanced seating in the theatre and table service in the bar. The show was great too!
Liam Rowley
Feb 23, 2020
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As an actor taking part in See how they run, Treasure island and Pressure, i can say with absolute authority that all parties involved in the presentation of a play at the Stables goes above and beyond to create a true westend feel. It is a pleasure and honour working with these amazing people.
Beverley Price
Feb 09, 2020
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Recently saw Treasure Island and Pressure. Really good productions and cast. Both tickets and refreshments reasonably priced and friendly staff. Look forward to seeing another performance there soon 😊
