COMPLEX THEATRE RENOVATION COMPLETED IN JUST 17 WEEKS

Construction specialists Speller Metcalfe were given the tight deadline to complete the complex project, due to confirmed theatre dates beginning at the end of September.

Joint Managing Director of Speller Metcalfe, Andy Metcalfe, said: “This was a very prestigious project to be part of, and the Speller Metcalfe team were proud to be chosen as the local contractors.”

Believed to be the oldest surviving theatre designed and built by renowned architect Frank Matcham in 1891, previous refurbishments undertaken in the 1980s were not seen as sympathetic to the original décor and architectural elegance.

Recognising the need to maintain the previous high standards of the Theatre, Speller Metcalfe were contracted by Foster Wilson Architects to capture the look and feel of the theatre as it would have stood over 120 years ago, while creating an updated bistro feel to the bar and external circulation areas.

Tim Foster, Partner at Foster Wilson Architects: “Speller Metcalfe immersed themselves in the process and managed to complete the work to a high standard, on time and on budget. Both we and the client are delighted with the end result.”

A range of specialist trades helped restore parts of the project, such as the intricate fine art painting works applied to the ceilings and walls, fibrous plaster repairs and bespoke decorations.

Along with the aesthetics, the building was given an internal overhaul including structural repairs to the auditorium boxes, lighting and ventilation improvements and new seating – with many of the original seats recycled and sold off to the general public.