Couples will be able to marry on stage

Couples can say 'I do' as an audience of family and friends look on from the 1,021 seater auditorium.

Managers have submitted an application so the theatre will be licensed for civil ceremonies.

More couples than ever are forgoing church services in favour of less traditional surroundings.

The Grand Theatre has been a landmark in the city centre since it was opened by opera diva Madam Adelina Patti in 1897.

We hope that people will like the novelty of getting married in all the splendour and grandeur of the Victorian auditorium Theatre manager Gary Iles

Many youngsters grow up attending the annual Christmas panto and other productions at the venue.

Hollywood superstar and Oscar winner Catherine Zeta Jones, who grew up in Swansea, made one of her early stage appearances at the Grand.

Theatre manager Gary Iles said: "The Grand Theatre means a great deal to many of the people of Swansea and often holds a special place in their heart for many reasons.

Marriage Act

"The addition of our new arts wing has meant that we are able to offer even better facilities for people who want to hold parties, anniversaries and other social occasions.

"To offer the facilities for wedding ceremonies seemed the next logical step.

"We hope that people will like the novelty of getting married in all the splendour and grandeur of the Victorian auditorium."

Latest figures show church marriages are on the decrease.

Ten years ago most weddings took place in church, but according to the Office for National Statistics now three out every five are performed as civil ceremonies.