The Theatre Club spent 49 years supporting the Grand Theatre but was disbanded in 2019. The money was given to the theatre’s restoration fund by the committee of the club.
Lindsay Sleeman, former chairperson of the Theatre Club, said: “Up until 2018, the Theatre Club had been in existence for 49 years and, during this time, raised thousands of pounds to support improvements within the theatre, including funding towards the new auditorium furnishings, and historically, £10,000 for the purchase of the magnificent chandelier which hangs in the auditorium.
“As a Theatre Club that was totally passionate about the theatre, we were delighted that we were able to play a role in successfully fundraising in order to enable the theatre to make purchases that wouldn’t otherwise have been possible.”
Elliott King, Swansea City Council’s cabinet member for culture, human rights and equalities, said: “Swansea Grand Theatre is such an iconic part of the city’s culture and it’s fantastic to see improvements like this being supported by its visitors through the restoration fund. The new furnishings really add to its grandeur and Victorian charm.”
The funds have gone towards replacing the main stage curtains and pelmet as well as the curtains in the boxes on either side of the stage and the sound booth at the back of the stalls.
The work is being carried out by J&C Joel and there will also be a new look corridor between the two Grand Circle entrances and a face lift for the front of the theatre.
The theatre is also in talks with a seating expert to increase accessibility within the auditorium and make customers’ experience more comfortable. This will be a longer-term project and it is hoped will be completed in the next few years.
