A significant investment is being made to further enhance the facilities at the Princess Alexandra Auditorium in Yarm to benefit both theatre patrons and Yarm School pupils.
The £1m project, which is being undertaken by Darlington-based Wharton Construction, will see the creation of a large lounge area, which will be used by pupils during the day. It will also have a bar and refreshment area for evening theatre performances.
There will be new changing rooms, to benefit drama students and visiting performers and a fantastic new drama studio completes the work, which is being undertaken in the basement of the Auditorium.
Acts that have appeared at Princess Alexandra Auditorium include Jason Donovan, Elkie Brooks, Suggs, Toyah Wilcox and Heather Small, with a full and eclectic programme planned for Autumn/winter 2018 into 2019.
Yarm Headmaster David Dunn said: “The Princess Alexandra Auditorium is a magnificent facility for the school and local area. The growth in the number and quality of events held in the Auditorium has led to the decision to invest in a new lounge area, changing rooms for performers, a drama studio and additional toilets. These facilities will be built to the same high standards as our award winning Auditorium.
“The PAA is attracting world-class musicians and performers to the Tees Valley and the addition of the new facilities will add to the experience for theatre-goers.
“In addition to this we have a thriving performing arts programme at Yarm School which puts on amazing shows and productions every year and the investment will greatly support their endeavours.”