Seaside theatre's orchestra coup

The orchestra will bring international musicians to Lowestoft

A Suffolk seaside theatre has made one of the biggest coups in its 100-year history after striking a deal with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

The world famous orchestra is to become resident at Lowestoft's Marina Theatre.

The venue joins Northampton's Royal and Derngate Theatres as the orchestra's only two residencies outside London.

The relationship will last for an initial three-year period but may be extended if the first year of events proves popular at the box office.

Details of programmes and soloists for the first ever Marina Concert Series will be announced in early 2005.

Two years negotiating

Martin Halliday, venues manager for Waveney District Council, said: "I am over the moon.

"It has taken over two years of negotiation and will provide Lowestoft and the surrounding area with world class music from a world class orchestra."

As part of the residency the Royal Philharmonic's education team will also look to build links with local schools, orchestras and choral societies.

Ian Maclay, managing director of the Royal Philharmonic, added: "We are thrilled to become resident in Lowestoft and we look forward to presenting an exciting series of concerts at the Marina.

"We will bring international conductors and soloists to Lowestoft and I feel sure that our programmes will prove to be very popular."