Shut theatre 'to reopen in weeks'

Thousands of people have been consulted on the theatre's future

A theatre that closed because of lack of money could reopen in "a matter of weeks", Sevenoaks Council has said.

Thousands of people turned out to have their say on the future of the playhouse after it shut in July.

A management company has now been appointed to take over the temporary running of the Kent arts complex and is set to bring in a Christmas show.

Councillor Felicity Broomby said the council knew the theatre was "top priority" for residents and businesses.

The interim operator, Kent-based Kino Holdings Ltd, said it wanted to reopen the theatre, cinema, studio and other facilities as soon as possible.

Improvements planned

Kino said "cutting edge" digital projectors were being installed, along with improvements to the bar and a new booking system. Projects with schools, colleges and amateur groups are also planned.

The company, which will run the playhouse complex for six months, already runs a cinema in Hawkhurst.

Spokesman Paul Corcoran said: "We look forward to playing our part in bringing the Playhouse back to vibrant life."

Thirteen groups and individuals had expressed an interest in running the complex.

The council, which owns the building, said arrangements for long-term management of the theatre were likely to be in place by spring 2007.