A university theatre facility is being renovated and transformed into a new performing space which will be used by groups all over Sheffield.
The School of English Theatre Workshop, located behind the Drama Studio on Shearwood Road, had not been used for several years after the University of Sheffield stopped its theatre degree.
Once renovated, the space will host the university performing society alongside other such groups in Sheffield.
Jacob Harris, treasurer of the Sheffield University Performing Arts Society (SUPAS), said: “The new space will allow us to rehearse and refine our shows in a full-sized theatre space and bring our diverse programme of workshops to a large group of people.
“Furthermore, new rooms will address key challenges we face as a society with a new set build room and additional storage.”
These challenges stemmed from the recent closure and plans to demolish the Barber House Annexe at the university as part of a £16 million project for a new Faculty of Health Building.
Mr Harris added: “More than anything, SUPAS is overjoyed to see the University of Sheffield investing back into theatre and the student community in a time where small venues and the performing arts continue to face challenges.”
SUPAS has sold over 1,500 tickets to its three shows this year. It acts alongside other performing societies to form a large and thriving theatre community in Sheffield who regularly use the Drama Studio and its facilities.
SUPAS, which was founded in 2007, is the University of Sheffield’s only society specialising in musical theatre. The society puts on at least two shows each academic year in the University drama studio, these have included Into the Woods, Little Shop of Horrors and The Addams Family.
Izzie Flecher-shaw, 19, a member of SUPAS said: “Through having access to the performing arts society and performing in the high quality shows, it’s been really nice to have a creative outlet, be a part of a community, and work as a team.”
Renovations are expected to be completed by October and hope to help Sheffield’s growing theatre community thrive.
