As restoration works to the Ipswich Regent Theatre continue, we’re asking the public to share ideas of what should be included in a time capsule.
The public are invited to share ideas from memories and stories, to photos, objects, or memorabilia, that capture what the Regent Theatre means to them and the wider community.
A selection of these ideas will then be sealed in a time capsule during the final stages of the theatre’s restoration and when reopened in the future it will give generations to come a glimpse into the theatre’s vibrant history and its importance within the community.
The refurbishment of the Grade II listed theatre focuses on enhancing customer experience with works designed to improve comfort, inclusivity, and accessibility for everyone. Upgrades include expanded bars, increased toilet facilities featuring a Changing Places space, and the installation of a lift to improve access to the Circle Lounge. The works are scheduled for completion in December, are planned to be completed just in time for the grand reopening with the festive pantomime Cinderella, running from 12 to 31 December 2025.
Councillor Jane Riley, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, said:
“With restoration and improvement works well underway and exciting improvements set to transform the experience for our audiences, we’re delighted to be creating a time capsule for future generations to discover.
“This is a special opportunity to capture the spirit of the Ipswich Regent Theatre and its place in the heart of Ipswich. We’re inviting the public to have their say and suggest meaningful items that reflect their personal memories or the theatre’s impact on the community.
“One of the items we’ll be including is a newspaper from 4th November 1959, marking the Regent’s 30th birthday - a wonderful piece of history that reminds us just how loved this venue has been for generations.”
If you have any ideas of what we could include in our time capsule, please complete our online form by Sunday 31 August at: https://my.ipswich.gov.uk/service/Ipswich_Theatres___Through_the_years_
Full details of the project are available on Ipswich Theatres.
During the theatre’s closure, audiences can continue to enjoy a fantastic choice of entertainment, with all performances taking place at the Corn Exchange.