THE results of a £150,000 facelift went under the spotlight during an open day at Darwen's newly refurbished Library Theatre.

Under the ownership of Blackburn with Darwen Council, the theatre now boast 200 new seats, new toilets, improved access for disabled people, a bar and state-of-the-art audio system.

And the theatre's renaissance represents a remarkable change in fortunes following a troubled 18-month period in which a National Lottery grant was withdrawn.

Coun Kate Hollern, chair of the council's sports and cultural services committee, said: "Local people now have a first-class facility which we are confident will attract top class performers and events."

The curtain went up on the first performance at the new-look theatre when the Reduced Shakespeare Company took to the stage.

Coun Hollern went on: "I am delighted that the Reduced Shakespeare Company, who have been selling out much larger theatres for many years, were out first production.

"With such first-class facilities we are confident that we will be seeing many more acts here, both well known and up and coming, over the years."

The day was opened by Rossendale and Darwen MP Janet Anderson and included the Millennium Caravan - known as the Millennivan - Darwen's answer to the Greenwich Dome.

Coun Hollern concluded: "We have put a great deal of effort and commitment into transforming Darwen Library Theatre and I am grateful to everyone in the borough for their continuing support."

The theatre box office is on 01254 706006.

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