A MINI-THEATRE has reopened in anticipation of a mystery tenant taking over the building.

Organisers hope that the deal, which is being finalised, will secure the legacy of The Theatre of Small Convenience, in Edith Walk, Malvern.

The theatre closed down in February after committee members decided to retire.

Dennis Neale, who runs the theatre, said: “We are reopening to keep up the profile of the place.

“A mystery tenant is taking over. There will still be theatrical productions in the building although I can’t say who will be taking it over.

“They will be starting productions before the New Year but I will be running it now with my own shows. In the summer I will do three hours a day for four days a week.

“I will still be involved when they move in. We are passing on the legacy.

“Next week I’m putting the theatre back together.We are reopening and shows will be held in the near future. Fat Cat is the first show.

“I found it hard to let go and I was still getting enquiries. I get enquiries from Trip Advisor and I am having to say it’s closed.”

The 69-year-old said he will not be charging for his puppet shows, although this may end when the new tenants take over.

Mr Neale, of Lower Road, Malvern, transformed the building from a shop into a theatre in 1999.

Before it was a shop, the building served as a gentlemen’s toilet.

A district council spokesman said: “We are delighted Dennis is able to continue to use the theatre temporarily while we finalise a deal to safeguard its long-term future. We hope to be able to make an announcement very soon.”

The theatre was once the smallest in the world and has a capacity of 12 people.