A CEREMONY took place last week to welcome the new operator which has announced plans to develop its programme, build community partnerships, and increase engagement with schools and the creative sector.
Its aim is to provide the best in live entertainment in the area, according to The Guildhall Trust, which plans to introduce a broader programme of live music and shows, develop The Sussex Studio into an intimate performance space with its own programme of music, comedy, drama, dance and family theatre.
It’ll also introduce new events including a Games Fest in 2024, deliver a wider ‘Get Involved’ programme of activities for the community and invest further into the building on Hastings seafront.
The Guildhall Trust will also be introducing Dance Live!, the school and college dance event that has taken the country by storm, and says it’ll announce a brand-new pantomime for 2024.
Included in the 2024 line-up are the comedians John Bishop, Al Murray, Ben Elton, Chris Moyles 90s Hangover, Jimmy Carr, Jo Brand and Frank Skinner. There will also be live music such as Jools Holland and the London African Gospel Choir and dancing at the Silent Disco.
Nadine Passley, Venue Director, commented: “We are really excited for the future of the White Rock! The Guildhall Trust’s vision and values resonate with what we have already been achieving with our Youth Theatre and community programme so we can’t wait to see how this is expanded. The Trust has exciting plans for the venue in terms of how it wants to develop the programme, the studio space and new events it wants to bring to Hastings, including Dance Live! and a Games Fest.”
The Guildhall Trust is a charitable trust and values-led organisation which places the community at the heart of everything it does.
Having successfully operated Portsmouth Guildhall for over 14 years, the Trust has added the White Rock to its portfolio and plans to develop the venue as a vibrant, multi-faceted asset for Hastings and the East Sussex region.
