Coventry theatre reopens after £3.5m redevelopment

The Albany Theatre has reopened following a £3.5m redevelopment, aimed at making it one of Coventry’s most accessible community arts venues.

The two-year project has added two studio theatres, community spaces, a bar, a café, a foyer and a changing places toilet.

At the opening, Coventry’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Mal Mutton, joined over 450 attendees to view the new facilities.

A plaque was unveiled in memory of her late husband, Councillor John Mutton, a long-time supporter of the theatre, while one of the new studios was named after Clive Benfield, recognising his contributions to the theatre’s development.

The event featured performances by local groups, showcasing the theatre’s renewed capacity to support Coventry’s cultural diversity.

Kevin Shaw, chief executive and artistic director, said: “The skills demonstrated at Generate Launch by an incredibly diverse range of talented performers of all ages and backgrounds were extraordinary. The Albany is all about inclusivity and the representation of all of Coventry’s communities. Our guests were blown away by what that means on the stage.”

Lord Mayor, Councillor Mutton, said: “I can only thank everyone who has been involved in bringing this project to fruition. The facilities are amazing and I know the Theatre will go from strength to strength. These facilities are a great asset for the wider community of Coventry and will allow the creative arts to be enjoyed by all of us, not just a few.

“My late husband, John, would have been so proud to see what has been achieved here. The contribution this theatre makes to the life of our city and the lives of young people, in particular, is invaluable.”

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