Theatre gets grand new look

These exclusive pictures show the major refurbishment of Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre is well under way.

Around 1,200 bright new red seats have been installed in time for the Lichfield Street venue's eagerly anticipated reopening in September.

Since closing on June 30, all the seats at the theatre have been ripped out and the carpet removed as part of its biggest refurbishment since 1998.

The new carpets and seating are a traditional red colour, while the ceiling is being repainted and wheelchair access improved.

The front kiosk is being replaced with a larger counter selling sweets and merchandise and the box office has already been revamped.

Former soap stars John Savident and Leslie Grantham are among the stars coming to the Victorian theatre as part of its autumn season.

Grantham, who played Dirty Den in EastEnders, stars as Private Walker in a stage version of classic sit-com Dad's Army from October 1 to 6.

John Savident, best-known for his role as Fred Elliot in Coronation Street, plays another Lancashire shopkeeper in Hobson's Choice from October 29 to November 3.

Last year the Grand had a series of improvements, including a revamped function room and sound improvements.

The Grand's Summer Rep Season is being held at the Arena Theatre in Wulfruna Street while the transformation takes place.