Frequently Asked Questions

Do you sell Gift Vouchers?

Gift Vouchers are available from box office redeemable against shows at the Congress Theatre, Devonshire Park Theatre and Winter Garden. We also accept and sell West End Theatre tokens.

Do you have any vacancies?

Job vacancies at the theatres are posted on the Eastbourne Borough Council website. Go to: www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/jobs/current-job-vacancies

Is there parking nearby?

The closest car park is on College Road (250m away from the rear of the Congress Theatre). This is a Pay and Display car park for 200 cars, but is free of charge after 6pm. There is also a limited amount of free, on-street parking.

The Devonshire Park Theatre has limited free parking for disabled drivers directly outside the venue and there are further disabled parking spaces in the College Road car park.

I’m having problems booking tickets online

Please go to our Online Booking help page

What is the booking fee?

On selected shows a per ticket booking fee is included in the advertised ticket price. For many incoming productions, the majority of the ticket income is paid to the production company or promoter. The booking fee is entirely retained by the venue.

When does the auditorium open prior to a show?

Unless otherwise stated, doors open 45 minutes prior to the show and auditorium, wherever possible, 30 minutes prior. The bar at the Congress Theatre is open from 6.15pm on show days.

What happens if I lose my ticket?

In the unlikely situation that you lose your tickets please contact the box office on 01323 412000 and they will assist you to resolve the situation.

I’ve never been to the theatre – is there a dress code?

We do not implement a dress code.

Can I get a refund or change my ticket for another day?

Once purchased, tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

Can I take photographs or film during a performance?

There is no photography or filming permitted during a performance unless otherwise stated.

Can I pre-order drinks for the interval?

Yes, this can be done at the bar before the show starts. Your order will be available for collection at the interval from an area near to the bar, you will be made aware of this area by bar staff when placing your order.

Do you sell food?

The DQ Cafe is situated in the Welcome Building adjacent to the Congress Theatre.

Do you have a loop system for hard of hearing and deaf patrons?

For more information please visit the Access section of this website.

What is the Essential Companion Scheme and how do I apply?

We do operate a free Essential Companion Scheme. For further information please visit the Access section of this website to answer this question

Can I bring food & drink into the performance?

All food and drink bought in to the theatre must be purchased onsite only. Drinks must be in a plastic glass or bottles, hot drinks must have a lid on. Where there may be restrictions for a particular show, customers will be notified by signage on the doors.

Do I need a ticket for my baby?

All customers regardless of age require a ticket to enter the auditorium at any time to ensure that we do not exceed capacity for a performance, so children will not be permitted to sit on your lap without a ticket. For certain performances there will be a ‘babe in arms’ ticket available.

Can I take a pushchair/car seat into the performance?

Pushchairs/Car seats can be stored outside the auditorium in the foyer. There is very limited space available for this, please allow time for your journey to leave pushchairs/car seats as they will not be permitted in the auditorium due to safety regulations.

Do you have booster seats available?

Eastbourne Theatres have booster seats available in all venues, however these are a limited quantity and are available on a 'first come first served' basis only.

Where is the nearest taxi rank?

There is no taxi rank near to the theatre, however we do have a Freephone taxi phone in the main foyer of all our theatres.

What is the running time of the show?

Please check the relevant show page on our website. However, this information is often not available until the day of the show and will be posted on the show page of this website as soon as it is known to us. This information is usually not passed on from the visiting companies until their day of arrival.  Any staff will be able to inform you of end time on your arrival at the theatre for that particular performance.

Is there an age restriction?

Some shows implement an age recommendation or restriction, please check the relevant show page on our website. Children under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult to visit the theatre.

What is a Relaxed Performance?

Relaxed Performances are designed for anyone who would benefit from a less formal theatre environment. These performances are specifically designed for people with an autistic spectrum condition, learning disability or a sensory or communication disorder. A Relaxed Performance may also be a more suitable environment for some families with young children and elderly audience members.

No bright lights, pyrotechnics or strobe lighting will be used in the show. There will be a visual indication warning the audience of any unexpected noises that are about to occur. The theatre will not be as dark as usual, so that the audience can see what is happening around them. These changes are made in order to eliminate surprise and reduce anxiety levels. Most Relaxed Performances are only available to book through the Box Office directly and therefore not bookable online.