A THEATRE which dates back to 1788 and boasts the last surviving 18th century auditorium in its original form has received £71,000 to restore Britain’s oldest set of scenery.

The Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond is able to start work on the conservation of its Woodland Scene. Painted between 1818 and 1836, the oil on canvas wings and backcloth depicts a path through autumnal woodland.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has granted the £71,000 to the theatre to correct environmental damage, as until recently the set has been on display in the exhibition space behind the stage in a case which was not adequate.

Another element of the work on the Woodland Scene will be to create a digitised copy and replicas that can be used on stage.

There will also be various learning workshops designed around the origin, use and conservation of the scenery.

Mirren Hunter, the project director, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players we will be able to conserve and share this unique piece of theatre history with all our visitors.

“As an organisation we do rely on our volunteers and this project will be no different, with plenty of opportunities to get involved.”

Fiona Spiers, head of Heritage Lottery Fund Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “The Woodland Scene at the Georgian Theatre Royal is a significant part of theatre heritage, not just locally but nationally.

“We are delighted to support this project which will conserve this important piece of theatre history for future generations to enjoy.”

The work on the Woodland Scene is part of a larger project to re-develop the exhibition space, where the scenery is displayed, and to create a new education and learning centre.

The project is funded by Heritage Lottery Fund and a legacy from Paul Iles, the theatre’s former associate director.

Built in 1788, the theatre was in regular use until 1830 when performances became less frequent, and it closed in 1848.

It then had a number of uses including as a wine merchant’s storeroom and an auctioneer’s sale room.

In 1963 it re-opened as a theatre following a restoration supported by a public appeal and by Lady Nancy Crathorne.

A small theatre museum was expanded in 1996 and a second, extensive restoration took place in 2002 with the theatre re-opening in 2003.

For more information visit www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk.