Building Projects, (2000)

In 2000 the theatre was awarded £1,492,479 from the National Lottery through the Arts Council of England. This, together with £500,000 of partnership funding enabled a £2 million refurbishment of the auditorium and public areas. Technical and backstage facilities were upgraded to achieve modern Health and Safety standards, and improve production quality. There was a large emphasis on making all areas, both front of house and back stage, accessible for people with disabilities. The front of house areas, including the Picnic Lawn, were expanded, and were planned to aid general circulation throughout the venue. Sculptor Ian Hinde was brought into create a series of non permanent willow pieces which would disguise the new building work with climbing plants, shrubs and trees. The Robert Atkins Studio, a black box studio theatre space, was also built as part of the project.
The story continues.