New Theatre Cardiff is undergoing a summer refurbishment programme, which will bring major improvements the front-of-house and bar areas to help improve the theatre-goer’s experience.
Trafalgar Theatres, which took over the running of the 110-year-old Edwardian style venue from Cardiff Council in 2021, is making the investments into improving the theatre. Some of the funding is coming from £72,321 raised at the theatre in 2019 by Sir Ian McKellen’s solo performances in celebration of his 80th birthday.
The three bars at New Theatre have been removed and entirely replaced to offer more workstations and additional display and storage space, with new beer pumps also to be installed as part of the project.
The circle, upper circle and basement level toilets of the theatre will also be improved as part of the changes, with a second inclusive toilet being installed on the stalls level.
Maintenance works are also underway to improve the buildings facilities including modernising the air-conditioning system to make the theatre safer and more comfortable during periods of high temperature.
Trafalgar Theatres has invested in renovating a string of its venues in recent years, including the Trafalgar Theatre in London and Sydney’s Theatre Royal in Australia, with New Theatre the latest to undergo improvements.
New Theatre Cardiff’s theatre director, Stephan Stockton, told the Wales 247 news outlet: “We’re delighted that we’ve been able to begin the New Theatre’s refurbishment programme this summer with help from our parent company Trafalgar and a very generous funding contribution from the legendary Sir Ian McKellen, raised during his 80th birthday solo shows.
“Our intention is to upgrade facilities, improve accessibility and enhance the customer experience for all visitors and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to the New Theatre for the start of our autumn season.”
Joint-CEO of Trafalgar Theatres, Rosemary Squire, said: “The New Theatre Cardiff is the pride of Wales and has been part of Trafalgar for nearly a year. This latest investment project is part of our commitment to providing amazing spaces where people can come together to share in the power of live entertainment.
“Theatre buildings and the customer service provision remain an essential part of that customer experience and we hope that visitors to the New Theatre will continue to enjoy many more memorable nights out at this landmark venue.”
The refurbishment works at New Theatre are set to be completed in time for showings of The Cher Show, set to begin on August 23.
Photo by Tony Hisgett from Birmingham, UK on Wikimedia Commons
