The Brookside Theatre is an award-winning 140-seat theatre in the London Borough of Havering and the first and only professional arts venue in Romford.
Based within the historic Romford War Memorial buildings, it was established in 2012 and now plays host to a varied programme of events; full scale musicals, plays, live music, stand-up comedy, tribute acts and celebrity guests.
The aim of the theatre has been to raise funds for the continued renovation and subsequent upkeep of these historic buildings. It is entirely self-sufficient, self-funded and voluntarily run and serves to entertain, enrich, inspire and educate the community and provide a first-class theatrical experience that is both accessible and affordable.
Through the theatre, creative opportunities are provided for members of the community of all ages to learn and experience all aspects of theatre production and with the introduction of two in-house societies, members of the community are actively encouraged to participate in in-house events. The theatre also offers the opportunity of showcasing local talent and provides arts educational programs that promote life-long learning to the borough’s diverse community.
A BRIEF HISTORY
In 2011, a small group of volunteers embarked on a self-instigated and self-funded venture to restore a long-forgotten WW2 War Memorial on Eastern Road, Romford. Tragically neglected for many years, the Romford War Memorial ‘Old Folks’ Club was built in 1953 to commemorate the service personnel and civilians from the borough who lost their lives during the Second World War. Within one of the buildings, were discovered oak panels donated by the US Air Force in recognition of the hospitality they received whilst stationed here during the War. The panels, engraved with the names of many of those who perished, had not been seen by the public for over 30 years.
In addition to preserving the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and ensuring that the War Memorial was to become, once again, the fitting tribute that it was originally intended to be, the team were able to re-imagine and re-open these historical buildings as Romford’s first-ever theatre with no grants, funding or financial assistance of any kind. In just a few years and with an incredible amount of hard work and dedication, the Romford War Memorial, was to become once again, an important and integral part of the community, engaging countless members thereof. Through the effort, dedication and devotion of the team, the Brookside Theatre has become an important and integral part of life in our borough, and a site of significant cultural and historical importance.
