22/09/07 - Cllr Justin Tomlinson, Wyvern Theatre Re-Opens

Arts & Culture Thriving In Swindon

They say the show must go on - and a year after closing its doors, the Wyvern Theatre is finally ready to open to the public.

The stage is set and all the finishing touches have been added to the scenery.

Staff have put on their uniforms and ushers and usherettes have taken their places next to the theatre doors.

But before the curtain goes up on Tuesday night, people across the town are being given a chance to take a peek around the building this weekend.

And they are in for a treat, with a new look box office, bar area and new seating throughout the auditorium.

Theatre manager Andy Hill said he is delighted with the work and was looking forward to curtain up.

"Our first show is the Business of Murder, starring Todd Carty and Sally-Ann Matthews," he said.

"It is fantastic to have great drama back in the building after having the fantastic refit."

And he wants as many people to come along to the open weekend as possible.

"Come along, have a look around for free," he said.

"Book some tickets, or not, but take home a brochure and have a look."

The Wyvern had to close its doors last September after asbestos was found.

It has been a tough month for staff and theatre fans, but Gavin Jones, chief executive of Swindon Council, said the grand reopening was a great day for the town.

"I think it is a great celebration of bringing this very important theatre back to life in Swindon," he said.

"It looks fantastic. It is modern, vibrant and all the colours work so well together.

"I have no doubt whatsoever that the theatre will go from strength to strength now."

Cllr Justin Tomlinson, lead member for culture leisure and recreation said the Wyvern was a big part of life in the town.

"The theatre was an integral part of people's social lives in Swindon.  While what happened was awful, we now have much improved facilities.  The support facilities, such as the bar, café and the entrance upstairs are a real improvement and add to the experience."

He said he expected audience figures to go through the roof.

"The theatre was always been well-loved by everyone before this, and it now has much improved facilities.

"It's great news for the council, great news for the town and will bring in people from outside Swindon while residents in the town can still enjoy and use it on a regular basis."

The Wyvern Theatre open weekend runs tomorrow and Sunday from 11am until 4pm.

BBC Wiltshire have some excellent pictures of the building works: