AFTER finishing its first show of the season, Reading Rep Theatre has now showcased it’s fully transformed building to the public.
Following a two-year campaign, the company, on King’s Road, Reading, opened its doors last month with DORIAN displaying the new aspects of the theatre.
The fundraiser, which raised over £1 million, saw the theatre renovate the old Salvation Army building and turn it into Reading’s new cultural arts hub.
The improvements included work on the front of house area, a new ventilation system throughout the building, LED lighting, new gender neutral toilets, indoor and outdoor bar seating area, rehearsal space and dressing rooms.
And the 163-seat auditorium includes a lower portion of retractable seating, which provides flexibility with a large open space making it fully accessible.
Nick Thompson, executive director of Reading Rep Theatre, said: “This theatre was built in the shadow of the pandemic, during a truly unprecedented time.
“Despite the many challenges, it was always heartening to know that, brick by brick, we were building something that would play a role in healing, sharing and celebrating better times.”
The theatre received contributions from multiple trusts, foundations and supporters to help put towards the work, which is now fully complete.
Artistic director Paul Stacey said he can’t wait to welcome back audiences to the new venue.
“Dave Hughes has done an incredible job of turning this old Salvation Army Hall into Reading’s first ever professional producing theatre, a cultural hub for a town emerging out of isolation, ” he said.
“Having grown up in the town, it’s a really special moment for Reading Rep and for Reading.
“We’ve finally got the resources to realise our ambitions and put Reading on the national cultural map.”
For more details, visit: readingrep.com
