REVAMPED CONNAUGHT STUDIO PROVING TO BE A BIG HIT

Fans of the big screen are flocking to enjoy Worthing Theatres’ recently revamped Connaught Studio.

Since the new £80,000 seats were installed in February at the venue which was built in 1916, thousands of people have streamed through the doors.

In the first six weeks, there have been more than 20 sell-out performances with early indications showing that ticket sales are up more than 10 per cent up in some weeks than on the same dates last year.

Those that oversee the Worthing Borough Council venue have been delighted at the reaction from the wider public.

​Cllr Dr Heather Mercer, Worthing Borough Council’s executive member for customer services, said:

"Having been one of the first people to try out the renovated studio I can proudly say that it is a fantastic place to enjoy a whole range of entertainment.

“This refit was all about improving the customer experience and it’s no surprise that so many people have been queuing up to get in.

“The sound system is one of the best around while the new tiered seating also means that we can host a variety of other live shows in a beautiful building.

“There have been a few teething problems, which is always inevitable when carrying out major work to a historic building. But we are constantly working hard to improve things for loyal and new customers alike.

“This is a perfect example of how the council is creating a platform for people of all ages to enjoy themselves in a state-of-the-art venue while bringing in more money to support the council’s work.”

The revamped studio went live on February 20.

The new seating was installed as part of a wider plan to improve the customer experience at the 160-capacity venue.

It includes a new sound system, donated by local business Bowers and Wilkins.

Among the most popular shows have been Beauty and the Beast, an 80s throwback screening of Robocop and half-term screenings of popular children’s movies, such as Peppa Pig and Sing.