Regis Centre autumn season announced for Bognor

The announcement comes as the venue celebrates confirmation of a substantial cash lifeline which they are receiving as one of more than 1,000 venues nationwide to benefit from the Arts Council’s Recovery Grant.

Hazel Latus, who runs the venue, said the money would ensure the venue’s survival: “If we now have to cancel January to March, we are now going to be fine. I am going to be able to pay the staff until March next year when I hope things will get up and running again. We have worked really hard – and I like to think I have worked really hard – to manage with what we had. We knew we could manage into the New Year, but the money means that even if we can’t have any shows from January to March, which is possible, we are still going to be OK. We were planning to be alright, but obviously you just never know what is going to happen. And I just can’t tell you how relieved I am.”

It means Hazel can now launch her mini autumn season with confidence.

Taking place in the auditorium, a series of hour-long events will brighten up your evenings this November and December, plus two musicals from the University of Chichester.

“First up is an evening with West End musical theatre legend Gary Wilmot. On Tuesday, November 3, Gary will be in conversation with local actress Vicky Edwards, to chat about his career, favourite musical memories and sing a song or two.

“Gary is best known for being an all-round entertainer and musical theatre performer in shows such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Half a Sixpence, Chicago and playing the dame in the yearly pantomime at the London Palladium. Gary last appeared at the Regis Centre with a world premiere of his play Sweet Lorraine in 2018. Gary will be accompanied on the piano by Matt Greaves.”

Joe Pasquale comes to the Regis Centre on Thursday, December 3 for an evening of laughs, songs and stories.

“Joe last appeared at the Regis Centre in Live at the Regis in 2018 and the venue are delighted to see him return for this special autumn season.

“Lastly, to get your musical theatre fix, on Friday, December 11 and Saturday, December 12 the theatre presents a wonderful hour of hits from the musicals. Enjoy listening to wonderful songs from the West End to Broadway.

“These three events are in addition to a monthly concert with Roger Clayden and 60 Minutes of Classical Music, plus two wonderful musicals presented by the University of Chichester triple threat course Babes in Arms and Pal Joey.”

Hazel added: “These are unreserved seating events. Customers will be seated as they arrive, in line with social distancing guidelines. The theatre want to ensure a safe, Covid-secure and enjoyable environment for all to revel in the return of live entertainment at the venue.”

Tickets on 01243 861010 or http://www.alexandratheatre.co.uk

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