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Briers backs revamp for 'magnificent' Theatre Royal

Jul 14 2009 The Journal

ACCLAIMED actor Richard Briers yesterday visited Newcastle to launch a £3.5m revamp of the Theatre Royal.

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As revealed in Saturday’s Journal, the windfall will see conservation and restoration work to the theatre auditorium in time for it’s 175th birthday in 2012.

The TV and stage actor, famed for his role as Tom Good in The Good Life, was guest of honour at a launch dinner for sponsors and Friends of the Theatre last night.

Mr Briers, 75, said: “The Theatre Royal is one of the best theatres in the world.

“I have a great affection for it. I started out here as a young man in 1958, and I have appeared here several times.

“The theatre means a great deal to me, and has played a large part in my career.”

Mr Briers praised the venue, one of only five Grade I-listed playhouses outside London, as a jewel in the crown, adding: “I love Newcastle, I love Grey Street, and most of all I love this magnificent Victorian theatre.”

Asked if he would appear at the venue after its multi-million pound revamp, he laughed: “Perhaps a very small part for a very old man. That would just about do for me.”