The newly-finished extension of Malvern Theatres “will make a huge difference to the community”, according to those behind it.
The building’s £2.25 million new development opens to the public today (Saturday, July 15).
A launch event is being held today between 10.30am and 3pm.
Cllr John Gallagher, portfolio holder for resources at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “We are so excited for the new extension to be revealed and for the public to enjoy what the facility has to offer.
“It is a wonderful attraction in our district, and it will make a huge difference to the community.
“The launch event is a good opportunity to promote the new Changing Places toilet, which is a great addition to the venue and really helps to open it up to all those with wide-ranging special needs and disabilities, making it accessible to all.”
READ MORE: Malvern Theatres' £2.25 million extension opens this weekend
Nic Lloyd, chief executive at Malvern Theatres, said: “The completion of Studio One promises huge benefits to the people of the Malvern Hills area and beyond.
“The new studio comprises a rehearsal space, performance space and cinema as well as a venue for our full programme of regular classes and workshops.
“I’m grateful to Malvern Hills District Council and the Arts Council of England for so generously investing in this important project, which has the potential to provide life-changing participation opportunities for people of all ages and abilities in our community.”
Matthew Bailey, divisional director at contractors Speller Metcalfe, said: “As a Malvern-based contractor, we’re delighted to hand over the completed development to Malvern Theatres who are already making full use of the new space and have some fantastic plans in place for the future - all of which will be enjoyed by the local community - including many of our own staff.
“It has been a fantastic scheme to work on and we're so pleased to have been a part of bringing such a local landmark into its next era.”
Claire Thomas, project architect at Glazzard Architects, said: “We are delighted to work alongside Malvern Theatres to create this fully accessible and contemporary rehearsal space whilst improving the theatre’s connectivity and presence within Grange Road. We are certain this new space will expand the theatre’s community engagement.”
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