AUDIENCES could soon be returning to Tenbury’s historic Regal Theatre after work to repair flood damage was completed.
The work was funded thanks to a £116,000 Government grant and bosses are now working on a way to reopen it safely amidst the challenges of the Covid pandemic.
The cinema is planning to show classic Christmas films to reduced audiences and a traditional panto is being planned for next year.
West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin, who was given a tour of the venue to find out about how the Government cash had helped, said the Culture Recovery Fund had been a vital lifeline for arts and heritage businesses across the county.
“It was great to see the Regal getting back up on its feet after the floods and then this terrible pandemic.
“Although the floods were terrible for so many people in the town, I am pleased to see so many people able to build back better and the Regal is classic example.
“The team has been able to install much better seating and flooring in the main auditorium and the vastly improved back-stage area will make a huge difference to performers and guests.
“I am so pleased to hear the plans to welcome people back through the doors and I’ll be passing the message back to Government Ministers that the grant will make a huge difference.”
Westley added: “It has been a challenging year, but I am glad to see light at the end of the tunnel as the Regal emerges with a much better space to welcome back customers old and new.
“I was grateful for Harriett’s visit and was keen to give her the massage that we are so grateful to Rishi Sunak for making the financial support possible.
“The Regal is an important local resource and all of us, the management, the volunteer and the townspeople want to see the theatre and cinema thrive.”
