The Kings Theatre in Gloucester is reopening after six months of extensive refurbishments, this August 2025.
The volunteer-run theatre has been closed since Monday 24 February 2025, in order to carry out 'essential and unexpected safety improvements' to the building's fire detection system and accessibility.
Located just off Eastgate Street, it is described as 'Gloucester's last remaining theatre', seating up to 144 – and is home to a number of amateur theatre groups, including the Hardwicke Players, Crown Players and Phoenix Players.
After an audit uncovered several safety concerns, the theatre was forced to close indefinitely, needing to raise around £20,000 to complete the necessary works.
But board chair Andrew Taylor remained hopeful – and the community rallied around the much-loved venue.
'Rainbow Street' artist, Tash Frootko, has even given the theatre's façade a colourful new lease of life in her signature style, including a classic tragedy comedy mask mural using artwork by Eliza Whimpers.
Tash said the theatre 'has been an absolute dream canvas to work on' with the public response being 'nothing short of amazing'.
She said: 'I reckon it's got to be the most colourful theatre in the world now!'
This isn't the first time Gloucester's drama community has rallied around the theatre, having been saved from dereliction once before in 1985.
And after a huge community effort, from skilled tradespeople to theatre fans, the venue has been rescued for a second time.
The Kings Theatre officially reopens on Saturday 30 August 2025 at 12pm – and tickets to upcoming performances are on sale now.
