Plans for a multi-million-pound upgrade to a city centre theatre have been revealed.

Norwich Theatre is planning to create more space indoors and outdoors at the Playhouse, in St Georges Street, and will focus on improving accessibility during the £5m makeover.

The plans were set to be unveiled in March 2020 to coincide with the theatre's 25th anniversary but were brought to a grinding halt by the outbreak of the Covid pandemic.  

Eastern Daily Press: The Playhouse bar has become a very popular city venue The Playhouse bar has become a very popular city venue (Image: Norwich Theatre)

But now, the team behind the bustling venue and popular cafe bar have brought those plans back to life.

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The project will include better backstage facilities and more indoor space for folk to escape inclement weather.

Eastern Daily Press: Stephen Crocker hopes the new plans will ensure the theatre is more accessible Stephen Crocker hopes the new plans will ensure the theatre is more accessible (Image: Jenny Kirk)

Stephen Crocker, chief executive and creative director of Norwich Theatre, said: “The project is being drawn up at the moment, and we hope to be able to share more in May next year, including designs and any funding plans.  

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“It is likely there will be a public appeal, as we know many people love the Playhouse and want to see it thrive.  

Eastern Daily Press: The plans will see more indoor and outdoor space some more people can enjoy it The plans will see more indoor and outdoor space some more people can enjoy it (Image: Norwich Theatre)

“The project is to improve the accessibility and sustainability of Norwich Theatre Playhouse, and is exploring innovative ways of powering and heating the building, as well as how to improve the visitor experience, such as step-free access to all areas including the bar, garden, activities and shows.” 

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Norwich Theatre is currently looking towards charitable trusts for donations and running fundraising efforts.

Mr Crocker added: "It is much-loved, but it needs some TLC. It is such a special place.

"It has got so much - challenged by its building. It was never built as a theatre. There is so much to cherish."

Additional reporting by Sophie Skyring

Eastern Daily Press: The theatre has become well known for housing the best touring fringe productions in the country The theatre has become well known for housing the best touring fringe productions in the country (Image: Norwich Theatre)