Birmingham Repertory Theatre to close for 18 months

Jun 3 2009 by Rebekah Oruye, Birmingham Mail

“We were given a series of newsletters detailing the plans for closure, but at this stage there has been no talk about our jobs. It’s all open to interpretation at this stage,” the source said.

Plans for the new library were revealed in April by Birmingham City Council, which said the project was at the heart of the city’s plans to fight the recession.

Construction on the ten-storey high building, to be built between on the carpark in between the Rep and Baskerville House in Centenary Square, is due to start next year with completion expected by 2013.

A spokesman at the Rep confirmed that the building would shut for 18 months during the final stages of the library’s completion.

“The first work on The Rep building will start in early 2010 with the demolition of current workshops, rehearsal rooms and hospitality suites. These functions will move to another location.

“We will continue to produce shows in the theatre during 2010 and we don’t imagine we will have to leave the building until 2011.”

Part of the re-construction of the Rep will include a shared foyer with the new library and the re-building of the glass frontage, used as a conference suite.

The Rep has been one of the leading national producing theatre companies, both on a national stage and as a showcase promoting local talent.

It has been located in Centenary Square since 1973 and stages around 20 productions a year.