Sheffield city centre theatre The Montgomery has announced plans for a huge multi-million pound refurbishment.
The iconic building was first opened in 1886 and survived the blitz in World War 2 and a fire in 1971 to become the home of many of Sheffield’s leading community theatre companies, schools and dance schools. The Surrey Street venue is aiming to see the work completed by 2023 before an extensive programme of planning and fundraising, involving all sectors of the Sheffield theatre and arts communities.
The plans outline a goal to bring the complex into the 21st century with a complete refurbishment of the front of house, main auditorium and backstage facilities as well as a new recording studio, bar area and improved toilet facilities.
Managing director Dawn Reynolds told Exposed: “It’s an ambitious project and one that is long overdue. We have already had a five year business plan approved by our trustees and we now begin the important task of getting funding in place for what we anticipate will be at least a multi-million pound project.”
“What we want is for the community companies to see The Monty as their theatre and their arts centre, somewhere that can be called home and can be built on and developed together.”
The next stage of the project will be a public consultation by next year which will involve the regular users of the space, exploring their needs for the building’s future.
“There will also be a full year of funding bids and fundraising before any of the major work can actually begin, which is why we are predicting that the project will not be completed until 2023,” Dawn added.
“I want to see this building buzzing, completely full every day with people from all parts of the Sheffield community. Sheffield needs a great central community facility and that’s what The Monty already is, it’s what makes us unique. But we can’t really begin to think about making any of this a reality with knowing we have the support of the people of Sheffield.
“There are many ways to join us on this exciting journey, including becoming a friend, joining our mailing list or coming to one of our open days to find out what we are all about and what we offer the people of Sheffield.
“I look forward to embarking on this exciting new phase in The Monty’s life and hope that our many friends will want to join us and support us.”
To find out more about The Montgomery, its current programme or how to become a Friend, visit themontgomery.org.uk.
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