Where it is: Brighton, which is on the South Coast. Church St, Brighton, BN1 1UE
How to get there: I'm not going to list down all the ways to get to Brighton but, once you are there, The Dome is within a 15 minute walk from the (main) Pier.
From the main line station, it is about a 15 minute walk. Come out of the station (2 entrances/exits) and walk straight ahead. The road in front slopes slightly down hill and The Dome is down the hill and over to your left. There are signposts and locals will refer to it as being in the 'Cultural Quarter'. (Oh yes, a little bit of posh you know). Its also near 'The Lanes' (Shopping area).
What it is: The Brighton Dome was built in 1805 as a very flamboyant stable block. It has since been converted into a concert hall. The main part of the roof is 'The Dome' (See photo's). It consists of 3 sections: The Pavillion Theatre, The Corn Exchange and the Concert Hall. They are covered by the Dome, which is the historic roof. The concert hall is the main are where tiered seating is available with stalls and the circle. The Corn Exchange is the function type room for 'functions', like weddings. The Pavillion theatre is the smaller part of the Dome for smaller and more intimate events.
Facilities: They have a licenced bar within. The counter is quite a decent length and a 'zig-zag' lightening shape which helps when queueing up. They can cater for functions such as wedding receptions, gala dinners, conferences and product launches. Obviously they have normal facilites like a cloakroom and toilets. A word of warning for the Toilets!! The set by the main bar have an automatic opening sliding door. You go through & the male toilets are right ahead with the ladies to one side. When the mens door is then opened (or if there's a queue), ladies may see more than they expect(!!).
Open University: Some of you may be studying with the OU for a degree. If you are, once you've been awarded it, you have the chance to attend a degree ceremony. One of the venues used is The Dome. Its a place to seriously consider travelling to.
Who did you miss: Earlier events at The Dome have seen people such as 'The London Philharmonic Orchestra', Alison Moyet, Bill Wyman, Gary Numan, Patti Smith, Yamato- Drummers of Japan, Van Morrison, Lambchop and many more.
Who is coming up: In May, the Brighton Festival which is 3 weeks of events such as concerts, music, theatre, et al. In June, Paul Merton Later in the year will be the Brighton Dome Rockshop, Jasmin Vardimon, and many more.
Costs: Quite simply all the prices vary. Some events will attract a Discount if you buy tickets for a few different events at the same time. Some concessions will be available for over 60's or registered disabled. Students and under 18s will sometimes be able to get half-price tickets. Family tickets are sometimes available. They do charge a little extra for phone and postal bookings. Bookings can also be done online and the fee drops. The Ticket office is at the side of The Dome.
Disability: All the areas within The Dome have good access for anyone with mobility problems. They all have lifts, RADAR toilets and specific wheelchair positions. Induction loops are fitted and the Concert Hall also has a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system which can be used with or without hearing aids. Guide dogs are welcome.
Round About The Dome: On one side of The Dome is a set of gardens, lovely to wander through before/after an event. Just great for the backdrop in your photos if you're dressed in all your finery. Along another side are a selection of restaurants and pubs. Just perfect for the pre/post meal or drink. Car parking is available in the NCP a matter of yards from The Dome.
Web Site: Further Information about The Dome and its events can be found on www.brightondome.org
