The Gallery Studio Theatre, in St George’s Street, Ipswich, lodges plans for auditorium revamp

An Ipswich theatre is hoping to revamp its auditorium in a bid to increase safety and accessibility.

Customer seating at The Gallery Studio Theatre, St George’s Street, is believed to have been installed in 2009.

This has led to problems, including a recent emergency evacuation taking longer than expected, and the theatre has lodged plans to Ipswich Borough Council to fix this.

In addition, show-goers have noted feeling uncomfortable due to the heavily worn seats, with many bringing their own cushions and others saying they would not return for future productions.

Planning documents said: “Upgrading the auditorium is therefore an urgent priority to ensure that our entire community can enjoy the theatre experience safely and comfortably.”

Under the plans, the existing 92 seats would become 97, with six rows in total, up from five, with two wheelchair spaces at the end of the front row.

Instead of one gangway in between rows, two will be placed either side to allow audiences to get up quicker and to allow any latecomers to sit without risking show disruption by walking in front of the stage.

It is also hoped these would encourage show-goers to sit towards the centre of the rows, offering a better view of the stage.

In addition, a new technical control room would sit behind the seating area, allowing technicians to clearly view the show.

Originally built in 1812 as the Ipswich Salem Chapel, it was converted into a theatre by the Ipswich Wolsey Theatre Company in 1991.

Today, it hosts community performances, workshops, and events and described itself as a cultural hub for the town.

The applicant added: “Ongoing adaptations and improvements are key to maintaining the building’s viability and ensuring the long-term preservation of its historic fabric.”