[1][2] In 1862 Hans Price, who became the town's leading architect, was commissioned to adapt and enlarge the building.

[3] During World War II the theatre was hit by incendiary bombs.

After the war it was rebuilt inside the original Victorian shell.

In 1986 the Blakehay was saved from demolition and replacement with a block of flats by the actions of the Weston-super-Mare Building Trust and run by the Civic Society who converted into a venue for amateur and professional events and public meetings.

[5] Facilities in the building include the main Auditorium, Upper Studio, Theatre Bar, two dressing rooms and a box office.