Arena

Name 
Arena 
Former Name(s) 
Ice Drome (until 1992) 
Opened 
1937
Architect 
Joseph Emberton
Replaced 
Roller Skating Rink
WP Table Builder

The Arena (formerly known as the Ice Drome) is the world’s oldest purpose-built ice theatre, having opened in October 1937. It has hosted an ice show every year since.

Built on the former site of the Roller Skating Rink, Leonard Thompson was inspired to build a venue for ice shows after seeing a number of productions stateside in Atlantic City and beyond. The task of designing the new building was once again entrusted with Joseph Emberton who had just completed the design for the station of the Grand National.

Marina was the debut production in 1937, followed in subsequent years by Dashing Blades and Ice Bound, all in collaboration with Claude Langdon. From 1940, the shows have been produced by the Pleasure Beach team, initially as the annual Ice Parade and since 1984, Hot Ice.

❓Did You Know❓

The 'Stairway to Success' in the Arena was built for the Ice Parade of 1959 and has been used in every ice show since. It was built by a team led by Frank Wright, who was also responsible for the Wild Mouse and the Derby Racer.