Councillors have agreed plans to overhaul the 1929 Art Deco Ipswich Regent Theatre.
The refurbishment project sets out to modernise and improve the Grade II listed theatre’s facilities, based upon the venue’s striking Art Deco features such as its illuminated lettering and geometric-shaped lighting.
In addition, accessibility will be improved including a new lift to the Circle Lounge and the entrance will feature a ‘Wall of Fame’ mural.
Bars will be upgraded and extended, toilets improved and an extension created at the rear of the building.
The project will be funded solely by a Restoration Levy which has been added to all tickets over £10 since June 2023, with the generated income ring-fenced for the refurbishment, improvement, and upkeep of the theatre.
Procurement is under way and the theatre will close in May 2025 for the work, which is scheduled to complete in December 2025. Shows will be performed at the Corn Exchange while works take place.
Cllr Jane Riley, Ipswich Borough Council portfolio holder for culture and customers, said: “We’re thrilled that our transformative plans for the Ipswich Regent Theatre have been approved and that work can now start to bring these plans to life.
“Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and we’d like to thank them for their continued feedback and support for this redevelopment project.
“Our theatres team have carefully considered their views and have planned a comprehensive transformation across the whole building, which we hope will make a real difference to all our visitors.
“When the curtain closes in May, the show will still go on, so we’re looking forward to engaging with our visitors to ensure they are part of the legacy of the theatre for years to come.”
Full details of the project are available at Ipswich Theatres.
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