A ROMSEY theatre has reopened after an extensive rebuild, receiving its own plaque at a ceremony.

The Plaza Theatre on Winchester Road underwent renovations costing more than £800,000, which began in May and suffered minor delays.

Representatives of the Romsey Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (RAODS) gathered with local bigwigs to ring in the newly refurbished playhouse.

Neil Gwynne (RAODS Chairman) and Barry Young (RAODS Estates Manager), along with Councillor John Parker (ward councillor for the Plaza) and Antony Chapman (TVBC community engagement officer) combined forces to unveil the plaque.

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A new plaque has been added to the theatre to join this blue one (Image: Newsquest) The work had been ongoing since May and was funded in part by grants, including a £300,000 from the Community Infrastructure Levy and £25,000 Community Asset Fund Grant.

On top of this, RAODS has used £340,000 of its own operating surplus built up over recent years, as well as taking out a £200,000 loan.

This represents a considerable investment in this valuable community asset.

To celebrate, RAODS has invited members of the public to come along to the first show to appear on the new stage will be the ever-popular Gilbert and Sullivan operetta Pirates of Penzance which sets sail on December 3 for five nights, plus a Saturday matinee.

Romsey Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society was founded on October 11, 1934, and the first show (The Mikado) was staged at the Town Hall.

A certain Mr Crosfield was present, who so enjoyed the show that he built the Crosfield Hall with RAODS in mind - and this then became our regular venue.

SEE ALSO: Delays to £800,000 scheme to refurbish Plaza Theatre in Romsey

RAODS says the following about its operation: "Owning and managing a theatre sets RAODS apart from most amateur companies.

"It sets us apart in terms of responsibility (for a property) and opportunity (to mount a wide variety of shows). RAODS is a long-standing member of the Little Theatre Guild of Great Britain, a national group of theatres owned and operated by their own members. The theatre is available for hire by both amateurs and professionals; and for lectures, concerts, AGMs and as a polling station."

For more details about future shows, visit plazatheatre.com/index.php.