Roof and bridge installed as new theatre takes shape

The roof of Reading's new Studio Theatre has been installed and the auditorium is starting to take shape, the council behind the plan has said.

The new theatre at The Hexagon will have capacity for 200 seated guests or for up to 300 people in standing events, with a planned opening in the spring.

Reading Borough Council said, with seating on the ground floor and a gallery, it would be "ideal for comedy shows, live music and other performances" and forms part of a regeneration project for the theatre and the surrounding area.

A new pedestrian walkway to give visitors step-free access from Queen's Walk to The Hexagon and the Studio Theatre was unveiled last week.

The council said that leads to a new main entrance, foyer and bar at the front of the complex.

"The purpose-built new Studio Theatre will be fully accessible to everyone and will make The Hexagon easier to navigate for all visitors," council leader Liz Terry said.

"It will provide meeting and rehearsal space for community use and the more intimate auditorium will attract a whole new range of acts and performers.

"The spectacular new Studio Theatre will sit proudly at the heart of the Minster Quarter development and will significantly enhance cultural provision in Reading."