AN £18.3 million revamp of the Hall For Cornwall is due to take centre stage this week when a proposal for a radically redesigned theatre and building goes on public display.

A three-week theatre development consultation and exhibition will be hosted at the venue from February 24 to March 15 and local people are invited to go along, take a look at the draft plans and get involved.

Those behind the project say the proposed redevelopment is seeking to safeguard the future of the building for many years to come and determine the best ways to achieve this. They say significant parts of the Grade II* Listed building no longer meet the technical or audience needs of a modern theatre. Because of a range of constraints and the demands placed on the building every day, it is now showing significant signs of wear and tear which need urgent attention.

Julien Boast, chief executive at Hall for Cornwall said: “We believe the people of Truro and Cornwall deserve access to the best performing arts possible which will rival any city in the country (in a similar vein to what Bristol and Plymouth already enjoy). To achieve this, and to assure our longer term sustainability and growth as an arts organisation, we need to invest in the building now. Our redevelopment aims to transform Hall for Cornwall into a dynamic, high quality environment for world-class theatre.”

The proposed project would see a radical redesign of the theatre to create a new three-tiered auditorium. Audiences would enjoy a more intimate theatre space; greater comfort; better views; improved acoustics and improved access throughout. Additional seating capacity and flexibility of how the theatre can be practically used will increase the Hall’s income and audience potential. The overarching goal is to elevate Hall For Cornwall, so that it becomes the organisation of choice for producers and performers who wish to showcase excellent work in Cornwall and the South West.

The proposed plans also include a redesign of the theatre foyer and entranceways on both sides of the building to create a more welcoming environment and this will be further enhanced with brand new cafés and bars. The fuller draft proposals and initial designs will be on display at the venue and online during the consultation period.

Mr Boast adds: “The project is subject to securing planning and the funds needed to make it happen, but we are determined to realise our ambitions. There is a long road ahead to raise the £18.3m we need, so we want our loyal audience and the people of Cornwall to come with us on the journey. The consultation is the perfect time for them to feed in their comments and suggestions and we welcome their contribution.”

The project has already gained support from Cornwall Council, Truro City Council and Arts Council England and Hall for Cornwall are grateful for their continued support. The goal is to secure the necessary funds from a variety of public and private sources, including individual grants and donations. Up until that time, Hall for Cornwall remains open for business as usual, offering an exciting programme of performance, comedy, music and dance.

The Community Consultation & Exhibition

Located in the Trelawny Bar, Hall For Cornwall

From February 24 to 15 March 15, open every day from 10.30am - 4.30pm (closed Sunday)

Members of the team will be in attendance on the following days to answer any specific questions: February 25, March 1, March 3, March 8, 10 and 15.

The consultation will give people the chance to see the proposals and designs in person and get involved in their future development. Feedback, comments and suggestions will be gathered via a questionnaire. The plans will also be available to be viewed online as will the questionnaire.