A Midlands theatre that was forced to close its performance space last year following the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in the auditorium and stage roof has announced plans to reopen in spring 2025.
Core Theatre in Solihull was one of several theatres impacted by updated government guidance issued in September 2023 in response to widespread concerns about RAAC's longevity in public buildings dating from between the 1950s and the 1970s.
The Solihull Theatre's auditorium has stayed shut for remedial work, while the rest of the building, including the cafe, library, and gallery, has remained open.
Core said that results from the work completed to date indicate that the auditorium roof should be able to undergo complete remediation works and reopen by April 2025 for shows, performances, and film screenings, followed by a full theatre programme from September 2025.
During the works, the venue plans to undertake other upgrades.
“It is really positive news that our auditorium will be back in business next year", said Councillor Wazma Qais, Solihull Council's Cabinet Member for Communities.
“We now know the work that needs doing and while the theatre is closed, we will take the opportunity to schedule in some other valuable improvement works and equipment upgrades.
“We have built in some contingency planning into the programme from April which will allow some flexibility.
“By bringing back films, National Theatre Live and one-night performances first, we can have a ‘soft’ opening in the spring. We can then welcome back a full theatre programme from September 2025 and the pantomime in December.
“We are working closely with theatre user groups as we recognise the hard work, love and dedication they put into their performances. These productions require an awful lot of planning and preparation work, and we are working with them regarding their return."