Contractor WFC Shopfitters is to carry out major refurbishment work to London's Prince of Wales and Strand theatres, as part of a makeover for theatreland unveiled this week.
Theatre impresario Sir Cameron Mackintosh and RHWL Architects revealed plans for £35m of renovation in the West End. The proposals include the refurbishment of six theatres together with the construction of the Sondheim Theatre, a 500-seat, 1800 m2 studio to be built above the Queen's and Gielgud theatres on Shaftesbury Avenue. The Sondheim will be the first theatre to be built on Shaftesbury Avenue since 1931.

Work to the Prince of Wales Theatre includes a transparent facade, a redesigned auditorium and renovation of the bar and backstage areas. Work costing an estimated £7m is due to start in the next few weeks.

Devon-based WFC will also oversee the expansion of the auditorium and the dress circle bar at the Strand Theatre. It is due for completion next year.

The Wyndhams and the Albery theatres will benefit from renovation work due to start in September 2005.

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