The Marina Theatre is at the cultural heart of the Lowestoft, Waveney, and Suffolk community, delivering a wide range of shows, films, events and community activities to audiences of around 80,000 per year.
The Marina Theatre is a registered charity, and relies on support from audiences, donors, the local community, partners, and funders. Find out more.
A rich history
The Marina’s story began in the 1870s as a roller-skating rink. Transformed into a theatre in 1897, it played host to legendary performers like Gracie Fields and Ralph Richardson. During its golden age, it staged pantomimes and summer shows. The rise of cinema threatened its existence, but it adapted, becoming a cinema itself until 1984. Facing demolition, the venue was saved by the local council and reopened in 1988 as a cultural centre. Since then, it has become a resident of the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
A look ahead
The Marina Theatre aspires to be a hub for the community, offering inclusive and entertaining cultural experiences. Its goals for the next five years include:
A high-quality program reflecting audience preferences.
Establishing itself as a premier venue for touring productions.
Deepening community engagement with the arts.
Presenting a balanced music program with a mix of original music and tributes.
Maintaining a strong mainstream film program alongside live screenings of major theatre productions.
The Marina Theatre’s future promises continued artistic excellence and a commitment to serving the community.
