Work on new Reading's new studio theatre starts
The auditorium will be built on the side of the Hexagon
Work has started on a new Studio Theatre being built next to The Hexagon in Reading.
The first stage of the work will involve the demolition of the backstage area, dock and stage door area.
The area off Queen’s Walk will be transformed into an intimate 200-seat theatre for comedy gigs and bands.
Seating can be removed to create a standing space for 300 people, and there is a gallery with more seating on the first floor.
The new building will also have superior backstage facilities for performers and crews and an upgraded technical area which will attract quality productions of all sizes.
On Monday, there was a ceremony to mark the end of an era and the start of a new one with Council Leader, Councillor Liz Terry, Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture Councillor, Adele Barnett-Ward, Chief Executive, Jackie Yates, Managing Director of Feltham Construction Ltd, Andy Brown, and Director of architects Haworth Tompkins, Lucy Picardo.
Councillor Terry said: “I am so pleased we are now at the point where this transformative work is beginning to create a new purpose-built venue.
“This new theatre, along with the Reading Central Library and redesigned customer reception, will provide amazing new facilities for our residents and our town.
"The new Studio Theatre is also set to be at the heart of a regeneration for that area of the town as part of the Minster Quarter.”
Councillor Barnett-Ward said: “A new theatre will attract an even wider range of acts and shows for the people of Reading and the surrounding Thames Valley to enjoy.
“The arts are such a vital part of the town and people’s lives whether they perform or love to watch live shows – there will be the chance to enjoy more.
“I cannot wait to see the first shows in the new Studio Theatre and see community groups use the space, and today is the first stage towards that goal.”
There will now be an 11-week pause in the show programme to provide unhindered access to the entire site for work to begin.
A temporary back of house area will be in Lavender Gardens so shows can continue at The Hexagon throughout the remainder of construciton work, including Reading’s ever-popular Pantomime which this year features CBeebies legend Justin Fletcher in Beauty and the Beast.
Included in the building work is an accessible entrance via Queen’s Walk into the complex of The Hexagon and the new Studio Theatre. There will be a spacious foyer with a bar and an outside area for visitors to enjoy warmer weather.
The new Studio Theatre will be open to the public in Spring 2027.