Preliminary designs for the remodelling of the Malvern Theatres, developed by Burrell Foley Fischer working with the theatre and Malvern Hills District Council, have been revealed. The ambitious project, which has received funding of £20million from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, will aim to deliver a world-class cultural facility within the Malvern Hills District.
A large number of theatregoers, residents and other stakeholders attended presentations at the theatre outlining the current proposals and provided their feedback. Their comments will now be considered and used to inform the future development of the designs.
Subject to consultation and planning, phase two of the theatre’s redevelopment will see further investment in the site, expanding access to the arts, improving health and wellbeing for the community, increasing education and employment opportunities, and an economic uplift for the region.
The development may include a new amphitheatre, a modern 200+ seat studio theatre to host community work, flexible workshop spaces, a recording studio to give a platform to aspiring musicians, an external lift, and more.
The redevelopment is being led by Malvern Hills District Council.
Cllr John Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Resources at Malvern Hills District Council, said:
“This is a great opportunity for residents, theatre-goers, and visitors to have their say and to see the plans that will aim to transform Malvern Theatres. The theatre is an invaluable asset to our community, and we hope the new development will enable more people to access the plethora of theatre shows, film screening, workshops, activities, and events that this wonderful facility has to offer. Our ambition is to grow the Malvern Theatres complex in range and scope, engaging and supporting our communities”.
Fred Moroni, Executive Director of Malvern Theatres, said:
“Studio One has already been a fantastic addition to Malvern Theatres, with our weekly classes, community theatre, and smaller-scale cinema screenings proving to be incredibly popular and successful in reaching wider audiences. Any redevelopment of the theatre must be driven by our community, as well as the wider needs of Malvern, and we look forward to hearing feedback on these ambitious plans.”