Architects delighted as work to restore East Anglia’s largest theatre is completed
A leading architects in Ipswich are celebrating as work is completed on the £3.5million revamp of East Anglia’s largest theatre.
KLH Architects were tasked with the restoration of the Regent Theatre, ensuring the redevelopment carefully maintained the historic character of the 1920s, Grade II-listed building.
The revamp included redesigning the iconic canopy and foyer at the front of the 1,551-seater theatre, with improvements to access, as well as the repair of the theatre’s curved inner foyer, known as the Crush Hall, and the Circle Lounge on the first floor.
Stuart Edgar, Director at KLH Architects, said:
“This has been a rewarding project to work on, especially as it’s such a well-known landmark in our hometown of Ipswich, with many of our staff being regular visitors.
“This was a project close to our hearts and we are delighted with the finished product.
“We were delighted to see the theatre reopen its doors to the public on schedule, just in time for the popular Christmas panto.”
The theatre originally opened as a ‘cine-variety hall’ in 1929, one of the first theatres in the UK to play films with sound.
It has historically been used as a cinema, restaurant, dance hall and returned to use as a theatre in the 1990s when Ipswich Borough Council took control of the building.
KLH started work on the project in 2013, completing the first phase of the ‘front of house’ design.
In 2018, KLH won the contract for phase two of the front of house, which included restoring original features in the theatre, including the ceilings, constructing additional toilet facilities and improving access.
After the project was put on hold due to Covid-19, the back of house development started in 2022, including improvements to performers spaces, all new dressing rooms and a revamped green room.
The back of house work was completed in 2023 and contractors Mixbrow, based in Needham Market, were appointed to the project for the final phase of works in early 2025.
The renovation was completed in November 2025, with the theatre reopening without a delay.
Accessibility has been paramount to the design of the new-look theatre, with great care taken to ensure easier access for disabled or less-abled patrons.
This has included improvements to a ramped entrance, featuring a ‘wall of fame’, and a new extension to provide a lift to the circle lounge.
Funding for the theatre’s refurbishment came through a levy on ticket prices.
Councillor Jane Riley, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, said:
“This redevelopment is about more than bricks and mortar – it’s about creating a welcoming, inclusive space that celebrates the Regent’s rich history while meeting the needs of today’s audiences.
“We’re excited to deliver a theatre experience that Ipswich can be proud of for generations to come.”
For more on KLH Architects see www.klharchitects.co.uk