ONE of the most popular destinations for entertainment in Shropshire has announced its reopening plans this week.

Theatre Severn, in Shrewsbury, has been closed since December 30, 2020 but owners and operators Shropshire Council have announced the theatre will reopen with a programme of films from Friday.

David Jack, venues and programme manager at Shropshire Council, thanked all previous patrons for their patience and confirmed there will be safety measures in place.

“Following our closure at the end of December 2020, we are thrilled to be reopening the venue this week," he said.

"We have been hugely grateful for the support and understanding of our audiences and can't wait to welcome you all back again.

"The safety and welfare of both visitors and staff remains at the forefront of our plans to re-open and we will continue to observe social distancing, reduce face-to-face-interactions, maintain enhanced hygiene within the venues, alongside the wearing of face coverings where applicable.”

The film programme will restart at Theatre Severn from Friday, alongside selected live events in the weeks ahead.

The film programme opens with family favourite Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway, and Chloé Zhao’s Oscar-winning Nomadland starring Frances McDormand.

All screenings will operate in adherence with social distancing guidelines.

Alongside the film programme, the venue has also revealed an exciting summer season of live shows.

In July, Shropshire’s legendary Dame Brad Fitt returns to lift the lid on his favourite tales from the world of pantomime, and musical theatre star Jodie Prenger revives her stunning performance as Emma in the UK tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Don Black’s classic Tell Me on a Sunday.

The spooky sensation and West End hit The Woman In Black makes its debut in Shrewsbury on August 16-21.

And Strictly Come Dancing's Anton Du Beck and Giovanni Pernice will join forces to perform their brand-new show Him & Me, with an extra performance has been added on Sunday, July 11.

Tickets for forthcoming events are available online at theatresevern.co.uk or by telephone at 01743 281281.