Mitchell Arts Centre

The idea of commemorating the life of R J Mitchell, designer of the Spitfire, originated in 1943 although the building was not completed until 1957. The Mitchell Memorial Theatre was created as a youth centre, and served its local community for fifty years as a youth centre and venue for amateur societies.

The theatre closed in April 2009 to undergo a major £4.3m refurbishment scheme. This included re-seating the theatre, and the addition of 23 seats in a small balcony on the back wall. The refurbishment also improved facilities backstage, with bright new dressing rooms, and facilities front of house. By mid 2010 the project was likely to finish on time and under budget, so the remaining funds were used to create a brand new cafe and roof terraces. The building re-opened in 2011 as the Mitchell Arts Centre.

The Mitchell comprises a number of meeting and activity rooms built around the auditorium. Seating 304 in all, most of the seats are in a single rake, one wide central block and two slim side blocks. The proscenium stage has a simple apron and no fly tower, though it has a high loft with hemp and hand winch flying. Backstage facilities include large workshop area and dance studio.

The auditorium is unusual in that the centre section of the floor is mounted on a lifting mechanism which pivots on its centre line to bring it level with the stage. The mechanism is no longer in use. However, the building still contains original thermoplastic tiles, characteristic cast iron radiators and 'Festival of Britain' style balustrades.