Redevelopment
In May 1997 the Palace Theatre closed to the public of Mansfield and entered a seven month period of redevelopment. During that time the theatre was partially demolished and rebuilt.
The redevelopment project cost more than £2.9 million,
funded partly by an award of nearly £1.8 million from
the National Lottery through the Arts Council of England,
with an extra £64,000 from European funding and investment
from Mansfield District Council.
Following the redevelopment the Palace Theatre has been designated as a regional mid-scale touring venue, meaning that it will seek to attract an audience from a 40 minute drive-time by presenting a broad range of work.
The theatre which opened in 1910 underwent a range of improvements during its seven month closure, including:
The Orchestra Pit has been extended and re-designed to accommodate more musicians and provide improved sound.
Extended wing space enabling an increased range of touring shows to be accommodated.
The creation of a 60 foot high fly tower, enabling conventional backcloths to be used to full effect.
A wider Proscenium Arch.
The installation of new seats to provide enhanced leg room and comfort and improved access for disabled Theatre goers.
A refurbished foyer which has been designed to fit in with the Edwardian age of the building yet blend with the modern environment.
The installation of a lift and ramp providing access to all areas except the balcony.
The ability to offer corporate entertainment, training and workshops in 'The Meeting Place'.
The installation of a Computerised Box Office system, facilitating a quicker and more efficient service for the public.
A new façade, reflecting the contemporary age.
The creation of an Education and Outreach programme to provide opportunities for local people to get involved.
Along with physical improvements to the theatre, customers have seen a change in the programming of the venue. To complement the amateur and professional variety shows performed at the theatre, a wider range of professional performances including Classical Music, Opera and Contemporary Dance will be brought to Mansfield.
We had a dream all those years ago when we were filling in
the endless Lottery Application Forms and producing reams
of strengths, strategies and statistics. The dream was of
being able to develop and improve the Theatre. Looking back
over these five years since the re-opening, it is with pride
that we can say that we have achieved an immense amount and
as a team, we are looking forward to facing the challenges
that lie ahead and of delivering still more quality entertainment
at the Mansfield Palace Theatre.
