The Mayflower Theatre in Southampton hopes to build a new rehearsal studio, dressing rooms and stage door as part of an extension.

The historic Southampton theatre has submitted a planning bid to build a double-height rehearsal studio, two fully accessible dressing rooms, a stage door and a reception.

In addition, the theatre has said the building will be net zero compliant and will provide a suitable space for their rehearsals and education programmes to thrive.

The application was sent to the city council on April 3 and is currently awaiting approval.

Michael Ockwell, Chief Executive and Creative Director said: “Mayflower Theatre’s ambition is to attract the best shows and performances which is matched by our drive towards delivering inspiring experiences for all.

“We recognise that our on-site provision for youth theatre falls short of our vision for creative spaces to develop and inspire young people.

“In addition, touring companies require dedicated rehearsal space as Southampton remains the first stop for West End touring productions.

 “This development is not only a fantastic new space but it will improve our facilities and further strengthen Mayflower’s reputation as a leading theatre.”

The Mayflower is celebrating its tenth year of successful youth theatre projects welcoming more than 210,000 young people from across Hampshire to experience creative arts performance.

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Originally built in 1928 under the name of The Empire Theatre, the Grade II listed Mayflower was rebranded to its current name in 1987.

Matthew Goode, Operations Director, said: “The multi-million-pound development will be across three floors and creates sensitive connections between the administration building, added in 2010 and Grade II listed theatre, creating a dedicated studio to enhance Mayflower Theatre’s reputation.

“The development will also provide two-fully accessible dressing rooms on stage level responding to our inclusivity agenda making Mayflower accessible to performers and participants.”

“Our inclusive Youth Theatre productions continue to expand with more than 150 young people performing in our 2024 summer youth production: Bugsy Malone.”