'Tired' theatre submits plans to modernise

The owners of Norwich Theatre Playhouse say they are hoping to breathe new life into the venue and future-proof it for another 30 years.

The 300-seat fringe venue opened in 1995 and has had stars including Sir Ian McKellen and Timothy West on its stage.

Plans submitted to Norwich City Council would see improvements across the whole building, improving accessibility.

"Norwich Theatre Playhouse plays a key part in the cultural tapestry of our city," said Stephen Wright, commercial director and chief operations officer.

The riverside building in St Georges Street, formerly a maltings, dates back to the 19th Century.

Wright said: "It is a cherished home for audiences, artists and the wider community but after 30 years and great success on stage... it's in need of a bit of TLC [tender loving care], really.

"The building is some 200 years old, the character is timeless but the infrastructure is getting tired and so the project we've put forward is to have a look at those challenges, tackle them and make a building that is fit for the next 30 years and beyond."

A passenger lift for all floors is planned, along with more energy-efficient systems to replace the existing ones.

The bar is among the areas that will be modernised.

Plans were originally drawn up in 2019, but the redevelopment was deferred due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Wright said the project aimed to preserve everything people loved about the Playhouse, while modernising the building so it could operate more sustainably.

"It's really, really important for us that the investment we make does keep the heart and soul of the Playhouse when we reopen," he said.

If approved, construction could start in 2028 but the theatre hopes to stage shows while work takes place.

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