Work on college theatre to start soon

From the archive, first published Tuesday 4th May 2004.

Work is due to start in late summer on a new £3.2m theatre and visual arts complex at Radley College, near Abingdon.

The design by Oxford architects Gray Baynes and Shew, of Beaumont Street, includes a 350-seat theatre, full scenery-handling facilities, technical workshops and costume storage and rehearsal areas. It will also accommodate the college's 630 pupils during assembly.

Additional foyer space will be provided and there will be space to display the pupils' paintings and other works.

Radley College was founded in 1847 and is a full-time boarding school for boys. It has always had a strong arts tradition.

Senior architect David Welbourne, has worked with the college since 1994 on several projects, including designs for a language building and catering facilities.

Mr Welbourne said: "This exciting development has been rewarding to design, and is of high architectural merit. The building will add a valuable facility to those already enjoyed by the staff and pupils. Construction work is due to start on site in August."

College bursar Richard Beauchamp said: "We have never had a proper theatre or assembly hall so this new development will be a huge step forward.

"Staff and pupils are looking forward to the opening in September next year."

"It is costing a lot of money but we have had enthusiastic support from Radley old boys. The rest of the money has come from a very successful appeal and from bank loans."

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