The Villa Marina At A Glance

The Isle of Man's entertainment history reached a milestone in 2004 with the opening of the new Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre Complex, consisting of the Villa Marina, the Gaiety Theatre, the Colonnade and extensive gardens. Not only geographically linked, but also drawing on the experience of the management and staff from the Gaiety Theatre and Summerland, it is well placed to take entertainment and the performing arts on through the 21st Century. At the same time, it provides first-class facilities for conferences, meetings, exhibitions and functions.

The Department of Tourism and Leisure's £15 million flagship Villa Marina refurbishment project provides a worthy sister venue to the Gaiety Theatre. Presenting an exciting year-round programme of entertainment, theatre, film, art and music for all is at the heart its philosophy. Both venues pride themselves on a warm welcome to both Islanders and visitors alike.

To some the Villa Marina is an old friend, to others it is brand new. A guided tour reveals that the Island has a facility, of which it can be justly proud.

The main entrance of the Villa Marina faces the gardens with its lawns and fine display of spring and summer flowers. Access is from the promenade through the Colonnade or via the Broadway gates. Above the impressive entrance is a stainless steel profile of Henry Bloom Noble, designed by Manxman Bryan Kneale RA,.

Stepping onto the polished marble floor in the bright and spacious entrance foyer, you know you have arrived somewhere special. Ahead is a stunning marble staircase with a water feature at its base. To the left is the main reception. The door to the right leads through to the two new multi-purpose function rooms. The Colonnade Suite situated on the upper ground floor has spectacular views of Douglas Bay and opens out onto the raised Colonnade Terrace with a capacity for 120 people, or 100 for dining. Downstairs is the Promenade Suite, the larger of the two function suites, which can be divided down to create the Loch, Harris, and Queen's meeting rooms. When used as a single room it can seat 180 in theatre-style or can cater for 150 for dining.

From the main reception to the left is the children's adventure play area called the Dragon's Castle - the ideal place for youngsters to let off steam under the watchful eye of their parents.

The ornate staircase in reception leads up to the Gallery. Left from here is the state-of-art, 154-seater Broadway Cinema, where you can see the latest blockbuster or enjoy a family film.

Straight ahead from the Gallery is the Royal Hall Circle. This hall rightly remains the centrepiece of the Villa Marina. The auditorium combines Edwardian grandeur and comfort with the latest sound and light system to create a unique atmosphere.

The Royal Hall has seating for 450 in the circle, 464 in the tiered stalls and for a further 600 on the dance floor. It is surrounded on both levels by a spacious corridor and is serviced by four bars, each with their own special character.

Finding out about "What's On" in the Complex could not be easier with information appearing regularly in the local press and radio. Alternatively, you can call in to the Box Office next to the Villa Marina Arcade on Douglas Promenade where friendly staff will be pleased to help. For private function hire, conference and meetings enquiries call 694500.