Following council planning approval being unanimously granted, we are delighted that our decorative plaster restoration work continues at Brighton Hippodrome theatre.
The latest update and images from the theatre show the ceiling restoration progressing towards the lower areas, with the extensive scaffolding required for access to the Oculus and upper areas now removed. This has revealed the full extent of the beautifully renovated and decorated plasterwork in all its splendour.
Our current work is focused on the gallery areas that are above the uppermost seating of the main auditorium. These feature Victorian circus style fibrous plaster enrichments which, in many cases, have been recreated from the originals or secured and restored on site.
Brighton Hippodrome is undergoing a complete overhaul courtesy of local owners Matsim Properties, whose plan is to reopen the venue as a performance and entertainment space in 2026.
The now Grade II listed building was originally conceived as an ice rink back in 1897, but in 1901 it was converted into a circus, designed by renowned architect Frank Matcham, before being redesigned again as a theatre the following year by Bertie Crewe. The Hippodrome has played host to a variety of stars, including illusionist Harry Houdini, comedians Laurel and Hardy, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
News and further photos of our plaster ceiling restoration work can be seen in these previous posts:
Jul 23 – Restored Plasterwork Goes On Display at Brighton Hippodrome
Apr 23 – Plaster Restoration At Brighton Hippodrome Theatre Continues
Jan 23 – Update on Brighton Hippodrome Theatre Plaster Restoration
Aug 22 – Brighton Hippodrome Theatre Restoration
May 22 – Restoring Theatre Architecture Plaster Mouldings