The Connected Coast Board has had the chance to see the impact of Towns Fund investment at the Embassy Theatre where extensive renovation works have taken place.
The Board identified the redevelopment of the much-loved theatre as a priority for funding in order to support an improved arts and culture offer in Skegness for residents and visitors alike.
With £1.33M Towns Fund investment, a number of improvements have now been delivered, including all new seating in the auditorium and a brand new lower floor extension and social space. Other changes include:
- A revamped main entrance;
- New lower foyer bar / café area and seating;
- Installation of a new customer lift;
- Improved backstage storage access and facilities.
Connected Coast Board Members had the opportunity to see the refurbishment for themselves during a tour on Thursday, 22nd May.
”It is absolutely fantastic to see the work that has taken place, creating an even better experience for all who use the theatre.
The Embassy has been entertaining people for almost 100 years and these significant improvements will secure its future and allow it to offer even more for people to enjoy now and in the years to come.
The redevelopment will also mean the theatre can continue to develop connections and opportunities for the town, such as has been the case with the partnership that has been formed with the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company.
We know that the funding from the Towns Fund into the theatre can also provide a platform for more investment and the continued development of the Embassy and Skegness’ arts and culture offer.
Thank you to everyone who has played a part in delivering this impressive transformation.”
Chris BaronChair of Connected Coast
The works are part of a wider Cultural Skegness project led by East Lindsey District Council which will see further investment and development of the Embassy and the town’s arts and culture offer.
”The Embassy is a historic staple in the heart of our town, and this project will help protect and grow its rightful place as a cultural and artistic hub for many years to come. With these new and improved facilities we can give residents and holidaymakers access to the highest quality performances and workshops, and provide a platform for new creative businesses that can help bring new jobs and investment into our local economy.
The Connected Coast board is confident the Campus will be a game-changer for Mablethorpe and area. For the first time, a whole host of new and longstanding partners will be coming to this area to work, research and provide new opportunities for people living on the coast.
The Campus has already been recognised internationally for the potential health and wellbeing opportunities it will generate for people living and working on the coast. I look forward to the Campus starting its journey when it opens in the coming weeks."
Councillor Steve KirkEast Lindsey District Council’s champion for the project,
”It has been so wonderful to see the hugely impressive changes that have been made to this historic venue. The enhanced customer experience, coupled with two huge extensions, offering visitors the chance to enjoy new spaces and also, ensure that the venue continues to host world-class productions as it approaches one hundred years at the heart of the town. Our long-term future has been assured.
Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who has helped contribute to the success of this project. It is a stunning transformation that will in time, ensure that further investment in the venue and also, the town as a whole, can be achieved, bringing arts and culture to the area, reinforcing that entertainment, leisure and culture based activities can do so much for everyone’s wellbeing as well as supporting the local economy.”
It's going to be a fantastic day, and we're eager to share this incredible new space with the community."
Brendan BuggMarketing and Sales Manager at The Embassy Theatre
