The cultural beating heart of Christchurch

In this issue of Community Update, we are delighted to showcase The Regent with our Commitment to Excellence award.

The Regent is a cinema and theatre in the heart of Christchurch, on the south coast of Dorset and has been entertaining local people for over 90 years. In 1982, the much-loved building was taken over by a charity and has continued to run as a cinema and theatre ever since. Throughout the year, there is an action-packed calendar of live theatre events; including stand-up comedy, music, speakers and variety acts, alongside an ongoing eclectic mix of Hollywood blockbusters and independent film showcase.

“We are proud to be one of the very few places in the south where you can see films projected from traditional 35mm film, and we have an interesting mix of monthly 35mm film screenings, from old classics to the very best horror and genre movies,” explained Chris Cole: House and Publicity Manager.

Throughout 2024, the Regent has some brand-new acts and the return of some favourites. This includes live music from Jim Cregan & Co on the 6th April- Jim Cregan worked with Rod Stewart for almost twenty years and now through his own band, is touring and playing the best of Rod Stewart.

“We also have hilarious comedy from Simon Evans, Britan’s Got Talent winner Jon Courtenay, and the return of our ever-popular Adults-only pantomime in March!

For Disney fans, we have a treat: a big new production of the family musical ‘The Little Mermaid’- produced by local group Bournemouth Musical Theatre running through the May/June half term. This production promises to immerse its audience deep beneath the waves and take them on a magical journey like no other! We also have a brand-new season of the Regent Comedy Club returning in February, with more top TV headliners and stand-out stand-up in Christchurch’s biggest comedy night,” added Chris.

“We have been a staple of Christchurch for nearly 100 years and as a charity, we are committed to ensuring access to the arts for local people. During the day we run a popular café and meeting space for people and even display exhibitions of local artists. We also run a popular weekly Silver Screen Cinema on a Monday morning for locals where you can get a free hot drink and a biscuit while enjoying a fantastic programme of films from the recent month’s releases,” concluded Chris.

For more information and booking, see the website below:

www.theregent.co.uk