£1.5m boost for theatre

BIRMINGHAM Repertory

Theatre has received a £1.47 million funding award from the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) to transform and revitalise its public space.

The ‘Open House’ project coincides with the theatre’s celebration of 50 years on Centenary Square and will help The REP to secure its future.

The works, starting next month, will be finished for the city’s cultural programme next year, running in parallel with the Commonwealth Games.

The funding will see improved access to the revamped Centenary Square and open the building up to visitors as well as theatre-goers.

The proposals will improve accessibility, provide outdoor seating, create a greater hospitality offer and transform the public areas.

The REP’s executive director, Rachael Thomas, said: “The GBSLEP’s funding will help us attract new audiences and income streams, allowing us to move towards a more sustainable and resilient future and play our part at such an important moment for the city and region.”