Guernsey dance school upset by temporary theatre closure

Tuesday, 24 February 2026 11:20

A Guernsey dance school says its summer show could be cancelled after Beau Sejour Theatre announced a two-month closure.

In less than two months, the Guernsey Academy of Theatrical Education (GATE) was due to stage its annual summer show.

Around 400 young performers would showcase their work and gain experience performing in front of large audiences.

However, yesterday (23 February), the school was told the space they have used for more than 20 years will not be available.

The theatre at Beau Sejour will be closed for two months from mid-April after an inspection found urgent maintenance issues requiring specialist contractors.

GATE co-principal Catherine Webster said she was shocked at the short notice.

"It hasn't given us enough time to really do anything about it.

"We start planning our shows at least six months beforehand, if not more.

"Costumes have been ordered, and the main thing is that parents book their holidays around it.

"They try to leave that weekend free so that their children can have that experience of doing our annual show, which we've been doing for 23 years."

She says two alternatives are being considered: moving the date, which may mean some dancers and parents cannot attend, or using a different hall at Beau Sejour.

They have been offered the David Ferguson Hall, which has a similar seating capacity, but 14 rows would be flat.

"You can only imagine what the sight lines would be like.

"We have very little children, and it's so exciting when they get on stage, but you wouldn't be able to see them or those pointy toes."

A decision on the show is expected tomorrow (25 February).