Date set for re-opening of the mac arts centre

Overlooking the foyer in the new look mac - due to re-open on 1 May 2010

The mac arts centre in Birmingham is getting ready for a grand re-opening after a £15 million revamp.

It is all systems go for 1 May 2010 when the mac and South Asian Arts organisation, Sampad, will be showing off the new-look centre.

The mac, which is in Cannon Hill Park, has been closed for two years while the work has been carried out.

New facilities include a purpose designed gallery and performing arts studio.

The new performing arts space can seat almost 150 people

The existing theatre has been refurbished and can now seat more people and there is a dedicated visual and audio media studio.

The mac's Chief Executive, Dorothy Wilson, says she cannot wait to show people around because the project has "created a dynamic and exciting" centre with "vastly improved spaces".

Arts Council England and Birmingham City Council were major investors in the project and there has also been a fundraising appeal.

Birmingham City Council's Cabinet member for Leisure, Sport and Culture, Councillor Martin Mullaney says it is a welcome and exciting return for the "much loved" mac.

A new pedestrian bridge for easy access to the mac

Events taking place for the centre's opening weekend include the grand finale of 'The City Sings', which is a new anthem developed to celebrate the re-opening.

South Asian Arts organisation Sampad is based at the centre and worked in partnership with mac on the building project.

They are presenting 'United Colours of Dance' as part of the Birmingham International Dance Festival and there will be an exhibition to celebrate their 20th anniversary.

There will also be guided tours, workshops and audio trails.