Works are progressing well on the refurbishment of Theatre Severn’s main auditorium, where Pave Aways is delivering a programme of improvements that will increase the venue’s seating capacity while enhancing the experience for audiences.
The project, which began in late July, has already reached a key milestone with the existing auditorium seating successfully stripped out. Our team is now installing new glass balustrades to the upper tiers ahead of the installation of brand-new seating.
Once complete, the refurbished auditorium will accommodate 714 people, increasing capacity by around 10% from the previous 650 seats and enabling even more visitors to enjoy performances at one of Shropshire’s leading cultural venues.
The six-week programme of works also includes the replacement of carpets throughout the auditorium, localised repairs to the plywood beneath the seating where required and minor decoration to make good affected areas.
Working within an operational theatre requires careful planning and coordination, with the refurbishment scheduled to be completed ahead of Theatre Severn’s autumn programme.
Pave Aways Commercial Director, Victoria Lawson said: “Theatre Severn is a much-loved venue at the heart of Shropshire’s cultural community, so it’s fantastic to be delivering improvements that will benefit audiences for years to come.
“Work is progressing well, with the strip-out now complete and the installation of the new glass balustrades underway. We look forward to completing the refurbishment ahead of the autumn programme and seeing audiences enjoy the finished result.”
The refurbishment comes as Theatre Severn continues to go from strength to strength. In a recent BBC News article about the project, Shropshire Council’s Deputy Leader, Alex Wagner, described the venue as “a real success story for Shropshire”, adding that it “brings people into Shrewsbury” and “supports our local cultural offer.” Read the full BBC story here: Work starts at theatre to boost number of seats by 10%
The Theatre Severn project follows the successful completion of refurbishment works to the amphitheatre in Telford Town Park earlier this summer. Delivered in time for the 2026 performance season, the scheme included the installation of a new pontoon and repairs to the seating structure, helping to prepare the popular outdoor venue for a packed programme of events.
Together, the two projects demonstrate Pave Aways’ continued commitment to improving cultural and community venues across Shropshire, creating high-quality spaces that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.