A Lichfield school has officially opened a new-look performing arts centre.
Nether Stowe School’s old lecture theatre has been remodelled into the Samuel Johnson Centre for the Performing Arts.
The new facility has a lighting and sound system which can be used for a range of drama and musical performances and was funded by money from Conduit Lands, The Community Learning Partnership, Section 106 funding and the Staffordshire Local Community Fund.
The performing arts space was officially opened by Mayor Brian Bacon. He said:
“I was delighted to be asked to open this wonderful centre and I pay tribute to all those who have contributed towards designing and financing its development.”
As part of the official unveiling, students from year 10, 12 and 13 put on a performance of extracts from David Titley’s play Johnson and the Boundless Chaos.
Headteacher Ruth Poppleton added:
“It was a great evening and an opportunity to show off our new facilities. The investment in the school has been very well received. We now have a high quality venue to use during the school day and to host musical and theatrical production.
“It has been a great pleasure to work in partnership with some many organisations, especially the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Trust and the Johnson Society I believe our students now have a greater understanding of the contribution he made to society.”
The facilities are available for hire at weekends, during school holidays and in the evenings. For more information, call 01543 263446.