RESTORATION of an historic dale theatre should be completed by early next year, 12 months after being severely damaged by water.
The Academy Theatre in Gainford was hit when a water leak from a first floor flat above came through the ceiling. Gainford Drama Group, who are based at the theatre, had to cancel their spring production and two other amateur dramatics groups scheduled to perform there had to find alternative venues.
The village theatre on High Green was originally a school called Gainford Academy. Among pupils was Stan Laurel – one half of the comedy duo Laurel and Hardy.
For the past 74 years the Academy Theatre has been home to Gainford Drama Club, who meet, rehearse and perform their productions to sell out audiences.
Nine months on from the devastating flood, the drama group say restoration work it well underway.
A spokesperson for the club said: “The amount of water that came through the ceiling and into the theatre was devastating. It impacted seats, curtains, stage, flooring, lighting as well as the ceiling.
“It’s been a tough journey, but we’re making good progress with contractors appointed to oversee the refurbishment. Over the summer they have reconstructed the ceiling with new plastering and redecorated the walls.”
Theatre seats have been removed and sent off-site for a professional clean, while the wooden plinths they sat on have been demolished and new ones will be built.
They added: “Specialist contractors have been appointed to repair and clean our cherished Victorian Quarry tiled floors, preserving its historic beauty.
“The restoration continues with a target date of completion by early 2025.
“A special thank you goes out to Ian Hammer, who has been instrumental in handling the insurance side of things and ensuring that the repairs stay on track. Without his dedication, we wouldn’t be as far along in the process as we are now.”
“We’re deeply saddened by the fact that we haven’t been able to host any plays this year and look forward to a grand re-opening next year.
“We plan to re-open with a blockbuster spring production worthy of a relaunch and look forward to seeing everyone again.
“We remain committed to making sure that when we do reopen, the theatre will be better than ever and is something our village can be proud of.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to a beautifully restored village theatre.”
