A MUCH-LOVED theatre has been transformed into a bigger and better venue, thanks to a cash boost.

The £800,000 development project has transformed the Lakeside Theatre, at the University of Essex, into a new, contemporary theatre.

It now has a new-look entrance and above-ground foyer, cafe and bar, and new access for disabled visitors.

The official opening took place on Monday.

The Colchester Samba Band led guests into the theatre, and local performance poet Luke Wright read a specially-commissioned poem.

Pasco Q Kevlin, theatre director, said: “The university now has a first-class theatre to match its exciting programme of international and culturally-diverse professional productions, student and community productions.

“This greatly improves the arts facilities available for both our students and the regional community.”

The university secured donations totalling £283,000 from benefactors, including the Garfield Weston Foundation, Foyle Foundation, alumni and a bequest from the late Chris Winsten, a mathematics professor, towards the costs.

The theatre programme includes film showings, comedy and concerts, as well as welcoming a diverse array of productions from upcoming and award-winning theatre companies. Vice-chancellor Professor Colin Riordan, who gave the welcoming address to more than 140 guests at the opening, said: “This is a major step forward in the continuing development of the arts at Essex.

“We are probably unique among UK universities in having theatres at all three of our campuses.

“This redevelopment provides a modern and welcoming facility, which will help to attract new audiences.”