Ipswich Regent Theatre begins £3.5m renovation project

Why it matters: The £3.5m renovation will transform the Grade II listed art deco venue, which has been an entertainment staple in the town since the 1920s.

The changes will address common complaints about the theatre, including limited seating and toilet facilities, while improving disabled access.

The details: The £3.5m renovation will take 7 months and include:

• A single-storey extension at the rear of the venue
• A "wall of fame" mural created at the entrance
• Refurbished toilets and improved facilities
• Larger bar areas
• Modernised Crush Hall and Circle Lounge bars
• Refurbished canopy with illuminated lettering at the front

What they're saying: Jane Riley, in charge of culture at Ipswich Borough Council, said: "It's going to make the whole space so much nicer and I personally am looking forward to it."

She added: "One common complaint is there nowhere to sit, as there is limited seating now, but where the ladies toilets are currently, that will all become bar space and seats."

"It will be a much more comfortable experience and people will notice that immediately."

For context: The proposal for the new-look auditorium was approved by Ipswich Borough Council's planning department in December.

What's next: The theatre is scheduled to reopen on 12 December with the Cinderella Christmas pantomime, which will run until 31 December. This also includes two adult performances on 29 and 30 December.

Some shows that would have been staged at the venue will instead take place at the nearby Corn Exchange.

The bottom line: When the Regent reopens in December, theatre-goers will experience a dramatically improved venue with more comfortable seating, better facilities and enhanced accessibility—just in time for the Christmas pantomime season.