A PRODUCTION company has said it plans to reopen a popular theatre in an iconic Harlech building, creating over 30 new jobs.

Theatr Ardudwy, on the former Coleg Harlech site, shut down in 2016, after deterioration of the theatre’s iconic building.

Then in April 2019, hopes were raised for the future of the site, when local businessman Leslie Banks Irvine bought Coleg Harlech, and its auditorium which housed the theatre.

But last autumn, it was put up for sale again by auction with Beaumaris-based estate agent, Warriners.

Warriners told the Cambrian News that the college was sold at auction via their partner auctioneers, Town and Country, from Wrexham office.

Now, according to Kallum O’Sullivan, the executive producer and owner of KMD Productions Ltd, the theatre is set to reopen this summer, after a £500,000 renovation. Mr O’Sullivan said the new owners have given the go-ahead to let KMD and sister company Ignite Live UK take on the running of Theatr Ardudwy.

Speaking to the Cambrian News, Kallum said: “We will be creating over 30 new jobs including theatre ushers, bar positions, box office, a theatre development team and much more.

“The new owner is Nigel Bowen, but KMD Productions Ltd and Ignite Live UK will be the new management of Theatr Ardudwy.”

He added: “I am deeply honoured and thrilled to be reopening Theatr Ardudwy in late August 2021.

“We start our renovation work on 20 June costing just over £500,000, funded from the National Lottery, Arts Council and our personal investment.

“Bringing theatre back to life in Harlech will bring more tourists back and help the local economy.

“The theatre will open back up as a professional producing theatre and a performing arts hub.

“Shows such as female impersonator Ceri Dupree will be heading into the theatre in September.

“We can’t wait to reopen the theatre with a celebration concert on 20 August - tickets and more details coming in the next week.

“I can’t wait to meet the local people of Harlech and yn dod Á theatr fyw yn ôl.”

Kallum is relocating to Harlech from the Midlands this week and says he can’t wait to bring live theatre back to the area.

News of the theatre’s reopening has been welcomed by Gwynedd Council.

Cabinet member for economic development, Cllr Gareth Thomas said: “Theatr Ardudwy has been a hugely important site for the people of this area of the county.

“I am delighted that there are plans to bring the building back into use - there is certainly a desire locally for a facility of this kind.

“I hope to speak with the new owners of the building shortly to hear more about the proposals.”