Interim co-chief executives Victoria Beechey and Rachel Tackley and the whole team at The Arts Theatre Cambridge are thrilled to announce that the Arts Theatre Cambridge will reopen its doors this month, following a remarkable ten-month transformation.
With less than two weeks to curtain up, final touches are being made to the beautifully reimagined auditorium, and anticipation is building across the city for the return of one of Cambridge’s most cherished cultural landmarks.
Designed by Ian Chalk Associates and made possible by the remarkable generosity of Lord David Sainsbury through the Gatsby Charitable Foundation and Dame Susie Sainsbury through Backstage Trust, the redevelopment has breathed new life into the historic auditorium, combining contemporary comfort with the warmth and intimacy that audiences have loved for generations. The project includes a full refurbishment of the main auditorium with new seating and improved sightlines, upgraded dressing rooms and backstage spaces, elegant front-of-house facilities and a striking new façade with a relocated box office and main entrance on Peas Hill.
For Rachel and Victoria, the reopening represents far more than a physical transformation. Rachel said: “With this project we have not only transformed our building but also reimagined our sense of purpose – how we connect with our audiences, artists and our community. We can’t wait to welcome everyone into our beautiful new theatre.”
Victoria added: “This redevelopment ensures that our much-loved theatre will continue to serve the city for generations to come. It has been an extraordinary journey for everyone involved. To see the theatre coming back to life – with new spaces, a new season and new energy – is incredibly exciting. ”
The theatre reawakens on 27 November with Sleeping Beauty, welcoming thousands of families, schools and community groups throughout the festive season.
Then, as Phase One of redevelopment nears completion, attention now turns to Phase Two — plans to create a 200-seat rooftop studio theatre dedicated to new work and creative learning. The ongoing Name Your Seat campaign championed by Sir Ian McKellen continues to play a central role in supporting this next stage of transformation.
For tickets and to find out more, visit artstheatre.co.uk
