Plans for Reading theatre extension approved

A new studio theatre attached to the Hexagon in Reading has been given the go ahead.

Reading Borough Council’s plans include a new accessible public entrance with a public area and flexible community space.

Behind the new front door, a new studio auditorium is to be built with a capacity of up to 300.

This space, designed by the award-winning Haworth Tompkins architects of London’s Bridge Theatre, will allow for a variety of seating and standing configurations creating opportunities for different kinds of audience participation and enabling a wider range of performances to be staged in the town. The audience will be able to enjoy intimate performances with state-of-the-art acoustics from roomy seats.

The extension and refurbishment of the Hexagon will include a café, bar, a rooftop terrace, and rehearsal and workshop rooms for community use.

A single-storey backstage and performer area will be demolished to allow for the new building to be created, which will include improved dressing rooms, a wardrobe department, and more production and rehearsal spaces.

Much-loved

Jackie Yates, Chief Executive, said:

"Reading’s Hexagon Theatre has been a much-loved venue for residents and visitors alike since 1977.

“From introducing children to theatre through its legendary panto, which has just enjoyed another hugely successful year, to huge names gracing the stage from comedy giants, bands, dancers, and plays, The Hexagon has played a special role in very many people’s lives.

“The Council wants to continue to attract the biggest names to our venues, while at the same time providing another more versatile space for alternative and more intimate productions. Importantly, it will also be available to hire by the community.

“We want the Hexagon to continue to remain a pivotal venue for Reading residents and the wider area in the future, and this important project will secure that.

“Access to the arts and culture plays an important part in people’s lives. Having such a versatile and accessible venue will enable even more residents to enjoy it.”

Minster Quarter

The Council’s proposed theatre development is at the centre of its wider ambition to create a vibrant new ‘Minster Quarter’.

Plans for the area include building hundreds of new homes, including much needed affordable homes and creating a vibrant thriving new community at the heart of the town. The development will bring new jobs and growth to the local economy which aligns with the Council’s vision of ensuring everyone in Reading can benefit from the town’s success.

Find out more and follow this transformational project’s progress at reading.gov.uk/hexagon.

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