Secombe Theatre
A suburban theatre named after Welsh comedian Sir Harry Secombe, who opened it in 1983 and made Sutton his home for over three decades.
At a glance
The Secombe Theatre stood on Cheam Road in Sutton as a community venue for drama, comedy and performance. The building was purpose-built for the town and became a local cultural landmark during its three decades of operation.
History
Sir Harry Secombe, the Welsh comedian and entertainer, officially opened the theatre in 1983. Secombe had lived in Sutton for more than 30 years, establishing deep roots in the community. The venue operated for over three decades before falling into financial difficulty. It entered administration and closed its doors in August 2016. A local campaign to preserve Sutton’s theatres gathered 1,350 signatures in late 2016. In October 2022, Sutton Council announced plans to sell the disused building, suggesting it could be redeveloped for residential use, including affordable housing.
What you see
Further architectural details about the building’s design and layout are not documented in available sources.
Cultural significance
The theatre represented an investment in suburban cultural life and was deeply connected to Secombe’s long personal association with Sutton. Its closure marked the loss of a dedicated performance space for local arts in Greater London.
Key facts
- Country: United Kingdom
- City: London Borough of Sutton
- Coordinates: 51.361707, −0.197146
- Opened: 1983
- Closed: August 2016
Practical information & getting there
The theatre is no longer open to visitors. The building on Cheam Road remains in the hands of Sutton Council, which has proposed its sale for potential residential redevelopment.
Sources & resources
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