VISITORS to Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal will be able to see auditorium renovation work first-hand when it reopens for tours this Saturday.

The Auditorium Development Project is the latest chapter in the history of the UK’s oldest working theatre in its original form, and will provide more comfortable seating and improved views of the stage whilst preserving the building’s unique heritage.

The ambitious capital works programme was given the green light at the beginning of last month thanks to a £375,000 donation from the Hamish Ogston Foundation.

Shows are not expected to resume until March 2021 but from August 1, visitors are welcome to take a guided tour of the venue.

Clare Allen, theatre chief executive, said: “Whilst other theatre buildings remain closed, it is wonderful for us to be able to reopen our doors to show people around this fascinating venue.

"We can not only tell them about the exciting history of the Georgian but about the thrilling plans for its future."

Tours run from 10am until 4pm Monday to Saturday. and groups of more than four are asked to call ahead on 01748-825252.