The Elgiva
At the heart of the arts in the Chilterns
The Elgiva is features a wide range of shows, theatre, films, comedians, musicians and dancers, from national celebrities to the best of local talent. Each year they produce their legendary professional family pantomime throughout December.
Elgiva for Everyone
After the traditional ‘dark’ month of August for theatre, follows a September packed with variety. A sold out Russell Brand show on 2nd September; and Chiltern Film Society starts its 55th season of films on Wednesday 6th September. Take a look at The Elgiva website and find a programme of art exhibitions, live screenings, wrestling, a TV psychic, children’s shows and more.
Special offer for live screenings September to May
The 2023/24 Royal Opera House live screening season is now on sale at The Elgiva.
11 sparkling operas and ballets await you on The Elgiva’s big screen. Beginning with ‘Das Rheingold’ on Monday 25 September.
There’s a with a free welcome glass of wine or juice included in the price.
Supporting local causes with local celebrities
The Elgiva hosts many community events and fairs, and fundraisers.
On 1st October Taskmaster’s Alex Horne is your MC for a night of world class comedy – all in aid of Love Lowndes – funding Chesham’s new playground.
There’s a wealth of events coming up. Book a show at The Elgiva
Named after an Anglo-Saxon Queen
The Elgiva is named after a Queen with local connections – the story dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. After her husband King Edwy’s death in AD 959, the Lady Elgiva retired to Buckinghamshire.
She died in AD 970, and her will marks the beginning of Chesham’s written records.
Elgiva left her estate at Cæstæleshammæ (now spelt Chesham) to the Abbey at Abingdon. One theory is that it may be about then that that the first church was built at Chesham.
The venue
This welcoming venue features an 300-seat auditorium, exhibition space and foyer, a well-stocked bar and café. It’s big on community and supports local fundraisers, events and community workshops. The Elgiva box office and cafe are Monday–Saturday 10.30am–3pm. Drop in and enjoy a coffee or home cooked food from the friendly Cafe Encore in the bright comfortable lounge area. The Theatre and Bar open an hour before the performance begins. The Bar is also open during the interval if there is one.
The Box Office is open for in-person queries and bookings in the hour before the performance start, but during busy times, staff will give priority to bookings associated with that day’s performance.
Elgiva location and contact
The Elgiva, St Mary’s Way, Chesham, HP5 1HR. Just a few minutes walk /cycle or cab ride away from Chesham Underground Station, shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants.
Home of Chiltern Film Society
The well-established Chiltern Film Society present a season of 15 international independent films.
The price for this season 2023-2-24 is £60 for the 15 films with membership purchased via Chiltern Film Society. These are shown on selected Wednesdays, from September to June, here at The Elgiva. You can choose from matinee or evening membership.
Tickets for these films can be bought at full price without membership from The Elgiva box office.
©Chesham Moor Gym and Swim, used with permission