Comment: Let Bristol Hippodrome shows go on an on

For many years now, Bristolians have had their very own West End in the heart of the city.

The Hippodrome – which has been drawing audiences since 1912 – has consistently attracted big names and big shows, especially in recent years with hit productions like Mamma Mia! and Miss Saigon.

For those of a different generation, it has been a magnet for stars, from Laurel and Hardy to Frank Sinatra. Yet it is not just a theatre for the household names.

Thousands of Bristol youngsters have appeared on the famous old stage, in both amateur and professional productions as well as the annual Gang Show for Scouts.

Now it is up for sale, with owners Live Nation looking to offload their entire collection of British theatres.

There is no suggestion that the Hippodrome should not continue to offer high-quality entertainment and there is a suggestion that Live Nation could decide against selling if a good price is not offered.

In fact, Live Nation is a profitable company and if the Hippodrome is anything to go by, it's not hard to see why. It offers as wide a selection of entertainment as any venue.

From pantomime to serious opera and most things in between, it is the venue of choice for families in the Bristol area and beyond.

That is why it is vital that any potential new owners remain committed to bringing the best shows to Bristol.

The city suffered disappointment with the arena fiasco and although the Hippodrome would never offer huge-scale entertainment, it is the one place in Bristol where West End-standard shows can be put on.

The Hippodrome occupies an important place in city's entertainment history and as the theatre approaches its centenary, all Bristolians will want to be assured that it will continue to prosper in its second 100 years.