COMIC Bobby Davro has thrown his weight behind Weymouth Pavilion.

The plight of the theatre is no laughing matter for the comedian and actor who has urged the town to support it and not let it die.

Bobby, who has appeared numerous times at the Pavilion and was back at Easter for a sell-out production of The Wizard of Oz, says he hopes to perform at the venue again.

He and other cast members spoke of their love of the Pavilion as the process begins to look for a new operator.

The theatre has been saved from demolition after Weymouth and Portland Borough Council decided to hand it over to the community to run.

Non-profit groups interested in taking it over have until May 31 – the day the Pavilion closes – to submit tender proposals.

Councillors say the handover should happen as quickly as possible but uncertainty surrounding the reopening has prompted Weymouth Operatic Society to move its July show to another venue.

Bobby Davro, who played the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz, said: “I have worked at the Pavilion many times throughout the last thirty years and it represents some of the happiest times I have ever spent in my career.

“The theatre has a certain magic and it’s so important not only for the performers that work on its stage but to the community that surrounds it.

“Please, please don’t let this theatre die. It’s far too important to let this happen.”

He added: “My good wishes for all associated with the Pavilion and I look forward to treading its boards again in the future.”

Tracy Beaker star Dani Harmer, who plays Dorothy, said: “It was amazing working in Weymouth Pavilion. We all enjoyed it very much and the audience were one of the best I’ve ever had pleasure performing to. So glad that it is staying open as it would have been such a great loss.

“I wish the new owners all the luck in the world and hope I get the chance to return in the near future.”

CBeebies presenter Sarah-Jane Honeywell, Glinda in the show, said the ‘magical’ theatre and Weymouth ‘captured her heart.

Actress Kate Richards, who directed the Enchanted Entertainment production and also plays the Wicked Witch, added: “There has been speculation for so many years over the future of the theatre and I am thrilled that it now appears that it will be saved.”

  • A collection supporting the Pavilion will be made at a German beer festival taking place at the complex over this weekend.

The festival runs from today until Sunday. For more details about the event see beerfestuk.com

How can you help?

AN OPEN meeting is being held to progress the aims of the Friends of the Pavilion.

The Friends set up last year and members say they will be willing to work with anyone who has the best interests of the Pavilion and its future at heart.

Acting chairman Cathy Page-Nash said: “All those interested are invited to attend.

“We are in the process of setting up a constitution and will be taking nominations for an extended committee.

“We are looking for an experienced treasurer who would like to take on this post.

“We shall also need volunteers to carry out a number of different tasks.”

The meeting will be held in the Ocean Room on May 9 at 7pm.