A multi-million-pound theatre is set to open at a Cotswold secondary school.
The Cidermill Theatre will officially open at Chipping Campden School later this month, with a pair of celebrities drafted in for the occasion.
Actor, comedian and best-selling author Ben Miller will be in attendance for the opening on Friday, September 30, before pop star Jennifer Paige performs a live set at the new performing arts venue.
Her performance will include chart-topping hit ‘Crush’ and will be filmed for an upcoming TV series.
John Sanderson, principal of Chipping Campden School, couldn’t be more excited.
He said: “I could never have imagined that it would take 10 years and a great deal of collaboration and commitment to take the dream of a performing arts centre and make it into a reality.
“The building itself, in all honesty, has surpassed our expectations in housing a range of professional facilities.
“There is now a very vibrant future for the performing arts across the North Cotswolds.
“Let the show begin!”
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Plans for the project, which is supported by Julian Lloyd Webber, have been in the works for nine years.
The new facilities are for both school and community use and include the Rockspring Auditorium with a professional audio and lighting system and retractable seating for an audience of 292.
There is also a 100-seater amphitheatre, the Rhubarb Lounge for intimate performances, a fully equipped dance studio, black box studio, classroom and rehearsal areas, dressing rooms and a café and bar.
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General manager, Danielle McCabe, added: “Cidermill Theatre will create so many opportunities for the school and the community.
“I am currently putting together a wide-ranging programme of theatrical performances, cinema screenings, talks, live music and dance.
“There will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
Further information about upcoming performances, as well as jobs and volunteering opportunities and donations to the theatre, can be found at www.cidermilltheatre.com or by contacting Danielle at dmccabe@cidermilltheatre.com.
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