Canterbury's new Marlowe Theatre awaits its opening

by Gerry Warren

gwarren@thekmgroup.co.uk

The new £25 million Marlowe Theatre will become an iconic building in Canterbury that will stand the test of time.

That is the proud prediction of its architect Keith Williams, who recently joined staff at a press preview to reveal what theatre-goers can expect at the opening gala night tonight.

Speaking on the granite steps of the impressive frontage, he said: "We are very nearly there and it's becoming a mixture of excitement and anticipation.

"It has been a very complex development with some difficult logistical challenges, but I am very proud of what we have achieved.

"I like the way the building only hints at what's inside and then it's very satisfying to see people's jaws drop when they first see the auditorium.

"To design and build a theatre like this from scratch in just four-and-a-half years is very fast.

The riverside walk beside the new Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury

"Perhaps it will be for others to judge, but I believe it will prove to be a significant piece of architecture and an iconic building which will stand the test of time."

The council's head of culture, Janice McGuiness praised the 'striking, bold and brave' design of the theatre, one of the nearest professional theatres to Ashford.

She added: "Rather than be afraid of one of the country's most important buildings just across the road from the theatre, Keith's design was head and shoulders above the other more reserved interpretations we considered.

"The council took a very brave decision to go ahead with the scheme on the eve of the global financial crisis, but it has helped to completely transform east Kent's cultural offer."

Opera singer Rosie Aldridge performs on the stage at the new Marlowe Theatre during the press launch

Only last week technicians were still busy at work installing and testing some of the stage's 300 lights, while other contractors were putting the finishing touches to the fixtures and fittings, including to the spectacular walnut clad, leather-seated auditorium.

Theatre director Mark Everett said: "Keith was obsessive about attention to detail and using the right quality materials and it shows.

"I think it is a breath-taking building inside and out and it has prompted huge interest from production companies.

"For example, we have the show Top Hat which we would have never accommodated before and Jools Holland and his band have just been booked for the spring next year and I know he will love it.

"In the old theatre only about 30% of shows sold out, but I predict it will be at least 50% in the new Marlowe."

A crucial element of the project was the creation of a smaller flexible performance space with its own auditorium for youth theatre and workshops.

But it also has several bars, a stunning riverside terrace and a new riverside walk leading to the theatre from behind the building.