The Ghosts of Theatre Royal Brighton

The Theatre Royal Brighton, opened in 1807, is one of Britain’s oldest and most beautiful working theatres. Over two centuries of performances have left more than memories behind. Actors, staff, and audiences have reported numerous ghostly encounters.

The Theatre

The Theatre Royal was built during the Regency period when Brighton was the fashionable resort of the Prince Regent. The intimate auditorium with its ornate decoration has hosted every form of theatrical entertainment for over 200 years.

The Grey Lady

The most frequently reported ghost is a woman in grey who appears in the upper circle and dress circle. She is believed to be a former actress who died in the theatre. Her appearances during performances have distracted both actors and audiences.

The Flying Phantom

A figure has been seen in the flies, the area above the stage where scenery is raised and lowered. This may be a former stagehand who died in an accident. His presence is felt most strongly during technical rehearsals.

The Dressing Room Ghost

One of the dressing rooms has a particular reputation for supernatural activity. Actors have reported feeling presences, seeing movement in mirrors, and hearing whispered voices. Some request different dressing rooms.

The Audience Member

A man in Victorian evening dress has been seen in the stalls, apparently watching performances. He applauds silently and fades when the lights come up. He may be an eternal theatre lover who cannot bear to leave.

Assessment

Theatre Royal Brighton’s long history of performance has created a place where the boundary between reality and drama seems thin. The actors and audiences who loved the theatre in life may continue to attend in death.