Malvern Theatres has been handed a huge boost after being allocated £328,120 from the government’s culture recovery fund.

The funding will enable the theatre to reopen with live performances, a classical music concert and an in-house drama production.

Malvern Theatres Chief Executive, Nic Lloyd, said: “We are of course incredibly pleased, and also relieved, to receive the offer of this grant. The money is essential to help to protect Malvern Theatres against the ravages of this pandemic and I’m grateful to the Arts Council for recognising the significance of our work with this award.

“Importantly, I’d also like to thank our generous community for your continued support. Without our loyal audiences we would not be here today. Our doors will be reopening in June and we look forward to this next chapter with renewed confidence; a bright future where we can enjoy live theatre together once again.”

Overall, £2,858,939 has been given out to 29 organisations in Worcestershire - in a bid to help theatres, galleries, museums, performance groups, arts organisations and local venues face challenges of enforced closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin, said:“We’re all looking forward to getting back to doing the things we love and this Culture Recovery Fund is playing a crucial role helping businesses stay afloat.”