Geoffrey Wheeler travels to Eastbourne, where he meets staff and supporters of the Royal Hippodrome Theatre.

It was built in the 1880s by architect CJ Phipps and acclaimed at the time as one of the most luxurious Variety theatres in the country.

The colourful history of the venue reflects the changing pattern of popular entertainment; its stage has seen everything from light operettas to Music Hall and stand-up.

With Bruce Forsyth.

Series visiting variety theatres around the United Kingdom.

Producer: Libby Cross

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2003. Show less