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| Author | DCM |
Poole’s iconic centre for the arts, Lighthouse, is to reopen in October following a much-needed £5.3 million refresh that has seen its facilities upgraded and improved. The summer work includes a new main entrance, which has been moved to a central position with clear glass installed across the front of the building.
The renamed Sherling Studio has been transformed with new sound and lighting systems, a new seating configuration and improved disabled access with increased wheelchair user positions and a new induction loop system.
“If we are to attract the very best artists we need to be fully fit for the future and provide a first-rate experience for everyone who comes here, whether as an audience member, a performer, for business meetings or with the many groups that regularly use the building,” said Chief Executive, Elspeth McBain, of the changes.
The Concert Hall has also undergone major improvements with new air cooling and humidification technology installed. A new education and rehearsal space on the first floor has been created and the existing function rooms updated.
Backstage, there’s a new stage door entrance, improved security, upgraded dressing rooms and the building’s first Green Room, while a complete new plumbing system brings drinkable water to back of house areas for the first time.
And it isn’t only new physical features powering the venue forward. The autumn season will see the venue affirm its position as the South West’s centre of excellence for live performance, film and visual arts.
A host of technical, mechanical and electronic improvements include the introduction of new low energy lighting and a new sound system and stage lighting in the Concert Hall and Theatre.
“The investment in the future of this magnificent building will pay instant dividends by enabling us to develop our programme to respond to both our community and the theatre sector nationally,” added Elspeth.
There’ll be opportunities to explore Lighthouse and experience the improvements first-hand at the House of Light open day on 27 November, offering the community a chance to see live performances and enjoy a playful peek behind the scenes with creative activities in parts of the building not usually open to the public.
The Sherling Studio will be launched in November with a world premiere of Archipelago, a beautiful new play by Caridad Svich directed by Lighthouse Artistic Producer, Stephen Wrentmore.