New Year drama at the Pavilion

The one thing that none of the pundits could have predicted was that the De La Warr Pavilion would be closing for two weeks for "essential maintenance works."

In terms of the affect on trade '“ January is usually a quiet month for art galleries and theatres '“ if a total shut-down is necessary early in the New Year makes sense.

But in other respects the timing is odd.

Normally in the construction industry "snagging list" issues are tackled almost immediately rather than more than two years after refurbishment.

But then the whole refurbishment process has been notable for its hiccups '“ not least the delays in completing the new north-side education wing and south-side offices.

First, the De La Warr Pavilion Trust ran short of funds then after work re-started the contractors went into liquidation.

Hopefully, the resumed work is now not far short of completion. Of the aspects covered by the recent report, the pavilion's contribution to education shone out and the new wing will provide a permanent home-base for this important work.

The De La Warr Pavilion Trust has not been without its critics but spare a thought for staff who have, perforce, led a nomadic life since the building closed for its 8m re-fit, being housed first in the old bank chambers in Town Hall Square and latterly in the DLWP Off-Site office at Marina.

Ironically, the three week closure comes at a time when the pavilion is on a high.

The Christmas circus show, Acrobats and Angels, won the pavilion some friends thanks to some stunning acts. It also demonstrated the building's versatility. The transformation of the theatre into a "big top" was accomplished in style and augurs well for possible future productions.

Sunday's long-awaited televising of BBC's popular Antiques Roadshow will have revealed to a nationwide audience what an attractive venue the pavilion is and what a scenic position it commands.

Fortunately, filming was undertaken on a bright, sunny (though typically breezy) day which allowed sequences to be shot either on the terrace with the pavilion in the background or through the spectacular sweep of the famous south staircase.

The publicity value of an hour of prime-time television showing people enjoying using the pavilion and its environs is immense.

Let us hope that when the pavilion re-opens on January 20 it will be snag-free, with its new wings completed and ready for use and will herald a successful season.