From rare photographs to original theatre programmes, Bournemouth Pavilion’s archive team safeguards the stories of generations past for future generations to enjoy.

Bournemouth Pavilion has been at the heart of the town’s cultural landscape for nearly 100 years. Its recently appointed archive team of volunteers ensures every performance, programme and poster is logged and preserved .

The archives are a treasure trove of historical materials, ranging from vintage playbills and photographs to letters, architectural plans, and unique memorabilia.

“Every item tells a story,” says Christian Knighton, who has worked at Bournemouth Pavilion for more than 50 years, joining the theatre as a stagehand in 1975. Christian now oversees and supports the venue’s archive and its dedicated team of volunteers. “It’s incredible to uncover little-known facts about performances and events that shaped Bournemouth Pavilion.”

We sat down with the archive team to find out more about their role and interest in the Grade II listed theatre and ballroom;

What first sparked your interest in archives, history, or heritage?

Kelly said;

“My love for Bournemouth Pavilion theatre itself. My roots are in entertainment and variety as both my parents were variety artistes, and I remain fascinated by theatre and live entertainment. Doing this is a real link to my past, as both my parents played here.”

What drew you to volunteer with Bournemouth Pavilion’s archives in particular?

Hilary said;

“I have had a long association with and affection for Bournemouth Pavilion having been involved in reporting many of its stories as a local entertainment journalist over the years. It is undoubtedly one of our town’s greatest assets that must be treasured and its history preserved. The archive needs to be carefully curated and protected for future generations.”

What excites you most about helping preserve Bournemouth Pavilion’s history?

Chris said;

“My grandfather was one of the town’s earliest residents. He took great pride in seeing our town grow. His death brought me to Bournemouth. I have always wanted to give back to the town, and Bournemouth Pavilion’s archive seems like the perfect opportunity to do so by contributing my time to a worthwhile project.

“Over the years, I have amassed a substantial collection of theatre and other popular culture items. While maintaining this collection takes up much of my time, I also tend my garden.”

What drew you to volunteer with Bournemouth Pavilion’s archives in particular?

Kelly said;

“I come from an entertainment background and spent many of my younger years in a dressing room. I’ve also attended shows at Bournemouth Pavilion for more than 50 years!”

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

Hilary said;

“I have enjoyed a long career as a newspaper journalist, having moved to Bournemouth from the Midlands in 1989 to join the then Bournemouth Evening Echo as a news reporter. I soon began specialising in Arts and Entertainment and have spent many years sitting in the theatre week after week reviewing shows of every description! I have been lucky enough to meet and interview many of the visiting stars who form part of the theatre’s remarkable history.”

Outside of volunteering, what are your hobbies or interests?

Chris said;

“Over the years, I have amassed a substantial collection of theatre and cultural items reflecting the town’s history, spanning more than 100 years. While maintaining this collection takes up much of my spare time, I also dedicate myself to gardening.”

Owned by BCP Council, and operated by local charity and social enterprise BH Live, Bournemouth Pavilion continues to play a vital role in the region’s cultural and economic life.

On behalf of BH Live, Steve Turner, Director of Venues shared;

“We are immensely proud of our archive and those whose passion and dedication brings Bournemouth Pavilion’s rich history to life. Their efforts allow us to explore and understand the stories that have shaped this iconic theatre, connecting past, present, and future for our community.”

Valued for its cultural, architectural, and historic importance, Bournemouth Pavilion provides year-round cultural entertainment and events, drawing in hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. This in turn brings footfall into the town, which supports other local businesses including hotels, bars, and restaurants boosting the local economy.

The venue’s diverse programme includes musicals, opera, ballet, pantomime, comedy, dances and fashion shows. Gala dinners, banquets, receptions, fairs, corporate presentations, product launches, conferences and exhibitions also feature as well as

tea dances, free-to-attend open days, and community performances.

The theatre is also home to the Compton Organ, one of the few remaining instruments of the 550 initially installed in churches, cinemas, theatres & concert halls between 1926 and 1939. Compton Organ shows are held throughout the year in partnership with the Pavilion Organ Fund to continue to raise funds for the organ’s maintenance and restoration.

More information about the Pavilion Restoration Fund and how to donate is online at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk/pavilion-restoration-fund.

Further information about Bournemouth Pavilion, including what’s on, is available at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.