Construction work on the Playhouse Derry is now nearing the final months. The 15-month project, which commenced on site in Oct 2007 will completely refurbish the existing Listed School Buildings and create a new-build extension to the rear.

The design, conceived by Andrzej Blonski Architects, and carried out by JPM Construction Ltd, will provide high quality workshop spaces for the extensive Education and Outreach Department, in addition to a fully-equipped contemporary Auditorium - seating 200 - Dance Studio, Gallery, Cafe and Theatre Bar. The aim is that the new building will become home to several cultural/art based groups and tenants and will also provide quality arts facilities for the wider community.

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The organization currently fills a large gap in the provision of the arts in the North West. It also is one of only a handful of venues commissioning, producing and touring theatre in the island of Ireland.

Based on the historic city wall in Artillery Street, Derry, the Award Winning Playhouse was established by Pauline Ross in 1992 with a grant of just £300. Since then it has grown to become one of Ireland's leading Award Winning multi-disciplinary Community Art Resource Centres based on a neutral site with the city centre and has secured £4.3 million from several funding bodies.

(CD/KMcA)