Major refurbishment of the new Hull New Theatre will start within weeks despite an unsuccessful bid for £5m of funding from Arts Council England towards the project.
Councillor Steven Bayes, Hull City Council portfolio holder for UK City of Culture and Visitor Destination said:
“As part of our wider programme of investments in the city’s cultural infrastructure, the renovation of Hull New Theatre is critical to ensuring that Hull secures a lasting legacy from its year as UK City of Culture 2017.
“Whilst the news from the Arts Council is disappointing, the Council remains committed to the refurbishment of the theatre. The venue is very important to the city and is absolutely critical to our plans for 2017 and beyond.
“With any project of this scale and ambition, there will be setbacks from time to time, however, we are actively exploring other potential funding options.”
After one of the most successful panto seasons in its history, the theatre has now closed its doors to allow preparatory work to begin.
During the closure, where it is possible, a number of shows will transfer to Hull City Hall to ensure there is still a comprehensive programme offer during 2016.
The refurbished theatre will be open by Easter 2017.
