Work set to start on Scala Theatre
It's been described as “something entirely different for Worcester”.
Work is set to get underway on Worcester’s multi-million pound Scala arts centre.
Residents will start to see hoardings going up as contractors get to work on the former cinema site.
City council leader Lynn Denham: “This is a really exciting moment in the development of this project.
“We are preparing to do the actual construction work and we are delighted to be handing over the keys to Speller Metcalfe, our construction partner.”
Cllr Denham said the Scala would be a “new centre for the arts” in the city centre and “something entirely different for Worcester”.
She said the £9.68m project would unlock private investment in Worcester.
The venue is expected to open in the second half of 2026.
Kitty Ross and Hannah Phillips have recently been announced as the interim creative directors of Scala.
Ms Ross said Scala was not looking to duplicate what’s on offer elsewhere in the city but build on it.
She said there would be opportunities for emerging filmmakers to present their work, including potential Q&A sessions.
Dr Phillips said: “We want young artists to stay in Worcester. The creative industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the UK.”
Paul Sutton, Scala’s creative advisory panel lead, said participation was at the “heart and core” of Scala.
He also said the venue would bring employment opportunities among other long-term benefits.
“Arts centres like this can regenerate a local area – other businesses spring up and they bring new life and opportunities.”
The building itself will feature three main spaces. One is a cinema area that will show independent films, but will also have a sprung floor and be available for dance performances.
A second space at the back of the venue will attempt to utilise the full height of the building.
Ms Ross said this will be a “messier, flexible space” for music gigs, cabaret, circus and art installations.
A third, smaller space will focus on “digital creativity”. Dr Sutton said the potential was “to think of the audiences of the next 50 or 60 years, to experiment and incubate for the future”.