A theatre is preparing to re-open its doors to audiences - 17 months after closing due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone shut, along with all other entertainment venues, in March 2020 when the country was plunged into its first lockdown.

Despite the easing of restrictions earlier this year, bosses have yet to re-open the theatre.

But they will now do so, on Friday, August 20, with the venue's first performance in over a year.

The first show scheduled will be from stars of the smash-hit Tony award winning West End musical Jersey boys, with The Best of Frankie Vallie &The Four Seasons.

The season will also include live music from Black Stone Cherry and Scouting for Girls, as well as award winning comedian Adam Kay.

Pantomime Cinderella, staring Lee Brennan from boy band 911, is also in the works.

Elizabeth Smith, theatre director said: "We are over the moon to announce our plans for reopening this August!

"Our whole team have been touched by the support we've received from our community over the past few months.

"We’ve seen how much live theatre has been missed in the region and can't wait to give the people of Folkestone some much needed entertainment in the safest way possible.”

Folkestone and Hythe District Council's leader Cllr David Monk added: "The entertainment industry has been particularly badly hit by the pandemic and I think I can speak for many when I say the venue has been sorely missed.

"Missed by audiences, but also missed by the restaurants, bars and other businesses who benefit from it being open.

"I can’t wait to go the Leas Cliff Hall once again to experience live, top-rate entertainment - it’s long overdue!”

For a full calendar of shows and events, visit here.

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone