Covered in dust, paint and scrapings, but with a cheerful smile on their faces, the dedicated band of Kings Theatre volunteers have continued to transform the interior of this beautiful Edwardian theatre over the last six months.  To help the theatre continue to provide excellent opportunities for audiences to see top quality shows, the restoration programme requires the constant input from friendly helping hands to paint and decorate and improve the building as part of the King’s support for the community.

Sharing a glass of champagne, the volunteers celebrated the completion of the latest phase of restoration in time for the start of the autumn season programme last weekend.

As well as painting the upper circle stairwells, peeling old paint off original tiling and re-decorating some dressing rooms, the major project work has involved the tower’s Irving Room.  This lovely room, with its painted glass windows is being transformed into a multi-function room which can be used for presentations, meetings, and as a bar during productions. The volunteers have also supported the theatre’s technical maintenance to ensure all was ready for a very busy season of shows.

Kings Theatre Vice Chairman, Ian Pratt said, ‘Our volunteers are all saints. Without their truly amazing dedication and hard work, the Kings would not be looking as good as it now does.  They have achieved so much in the ten years since the Trust has been responsible for the theatre and have saved us thousands of pounds in labour costs that we have been able to invest in bringing the theatre up to modern standards.  We cannot thank them enough for the support.’

The Kings autumn programme started on Sunday 4 September with a charity production by local professional and community performers in aid of The Rosemary Foundation, The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and the Kings Theatre Restoration Fund.

The Kings always welcomes any potential volunteers and details can be obtained by contacting the Theatre’s Volunteer Coordinator by e-mail ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or calling (023)92852228

Prepared by
Mike Williams
PR Director
Kings Theatre Trust Ltd
07736-392382