Ipswich Regent Theatre in St Helen’s Street celebrates completion of £415,000 extension project to improve backstage

East Anglia’s largest theatre will now be able to accommodate shows with bigger casts following an extension project to improve the backstage.

Stars performing at the Ipswich Regent Theatre, in St Helen’s Street, will now benefit from a new backstage area, which links to the main theatre itself.

The extension – estimated to have costs about £415,000 – features additional dressing rooms, catering facilities and wardrobe space.

Officially opened by Ipswich Mayor Coucillor, Lynne Mortimer, the new building will also mean those backstage will no longer need to walk through the car park to reach the main theatre.

Councillor Sophie Connelly, Ipswich Borough Council portfolio holder for culture and customers, said: “We’re excited to officially open Ipswich Regent Theatre’s new facilities for stage stars and production companies visiting Ipswich on tour.

“This new backstage space ensures we can provide additional dressing space, welfare facilities and some modern comforts to support a fantastic show.

“We know that improving our facilities means we can accommodate shows with bigger casts, and we look forward to welcoming them.”