Malvern Theatres will officially open its new £2.25 million development this weekend.
The 310 square metre extension will open on Saturday, 15 July.
There will be an open event from 10.30am to 3pm for visitors to take tours, enjoy arts and crafts sessions, and learn about the workshops and classes on offer.
Designed by Worcester based Glazzard Architects with Malvern Theatres, the construction was carried out by local contractors Speller Metcalfe.
The new first floor cantilevered glazed extension creates a fully accessible performance space, while the new entrance is enhanced with an improved, landscaped public space.
The performance space is equipped to a high standard allowing the theatre to further deliver a wide range of productions, as well as giving a more flexible space for educational and community use.
The addition will enable the theatre to increase its number of workshop places from around 2,500 to 14,500 per year, with regular weekly classes in dance, movement, drama, music, acting and film-making all part of the initial programme starting from September.
Disabled access to the theatre from the Grange Road entrance has also been improved.
The extension project is funded jointly by Malvern Hills District Council and Malvern Theatres Trust, with donations and fundraising they secured.
As part of the new development, a new Changing Places facility has been built in the theatre.
READ MORE: New look for Malvern Theatres as £2.25m project continues
These are larger, accessible toilets for people with disabilities. The new facility at Malvern Theatres includes a changing bed, shower, hoist, adjustable sink and compliant WC.
It was part-funded by a Changing Places Grant from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and supported by Muscular Dystrophy UK.
Malvern Theatres will be hosting an event on Wednesday, July 19, from 10am to 2pm, at the that will involve toilet tours, a relaxed family film screening of The Big Knights, and free, family friendly fun to suit all ages and abilities.
There will be a drop-in craft activity, interactive activities, fun and games, a sensory area and make-your-own selfie sunglasses.
To help celebrate Changing Places Awareness Day, a Play/Create Workshop will also be on offer.
The vibrant workshop will be facilitated by Richard Hayhow, director of Open Theatre Company, and Bridget Lloyd, head of creative learning at Malvern Theatres.
The workshop is free of charge with limited places available and requires pre-booking.
People can email zoeh@malvern-theatres.co.uk for more information about the Changing Places event, or to book the Play/Create Workshop.
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