Oast Theatre, Theatre in Tonbridge, England
The Oast Theatre is housed in a converted hop-drying building and contains a performance space with 112 seats designed for good sightlines from all positions. The intimate size makes it easy to see and hear everything happening on stage.
The building was originally constructed in the 1800s as a hop kiln for Kent's agricultural industry before being converted to a theatre in 1974. This transformation allowed the historic structure to gain a new purpose for the community.
The Tonbridge Theatre and Arts Club operates this space, bringing theatrical productions and art exhibitions to the local community throughout the year. Visitors can experience how this venue has become a gathering place for amateur performers and art enthusiasts in the town.
Performances typically run Thursday through Saturday evenings, with tickets available through the venue's online booking system. It is helpful to check the schedule ahead of time since shows vary by season and production.
The building retains its original oast house architecture with the distinctive rounded or cone-shaped design still visible from outside. This preserved structure makes it one of the few theatres housed in an authentic agricultural building from Kent's hop-growing era.
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