Venue

Redevelopment set to begin on Ipswich Regent Theatre in May

Featured Image: Ipswich Regent Theatre

Featured Image: Ipswich Regent Theatre

Redevelopment work on the Ipswich Regent Theatre is set to begin in May after Mixbrow Construction was awarded the contract to deliver the upgrades.

The Grade II listed venue will close its doors to the public on May 4 to undergo a project that is aimed at improving its accessibility, sustainability, and visitor experience.

All scheduled shows at the theatre are set to take place in the English city’s Corn Exchange, before a grand reopening for a pantomime production of Cinderella which is due to run from December 12-31 this year.

“We’re pleased to see Mixbrow Construction appointed as our contractor to carry out the redevelopment project Ipswich Regent Theatre,” said Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customer Jane Riley.

“These improvements will make a big difference to our audiences, and we can’t wait for them to see the theatre’s transformation in December as we welcome back audiences to enjoy our festive panto, Cinderella.”

The refurbishment includes a new single-storey extension on the east side, expanding its toilet facilities.

This extension will also house new office space and improved fire escape routes. To enhance accessibility to the theatre’s Circle Lounge, a new lift is set to be installed.

In terms of sustainability, water-efficient fittings, better insulation, and modern heating and cooling systems will all be incorporated.

The project has been solely funded by a restoration levy which has been added to all tickets costing more than £10 ($12.60/€12.10) since June 2023. The levy was £1.70 and was ring-fenced to pay for the project.