A THEATRE has been making use of the time while closed.

The John Peel Theatre, Station Road, Wigton has been making some well-needed changes to the premises during lockdown as well as hosting successful virtual open mic nights.

Connie Jensen, chairwoman of the theatre group, said: “Like all other theatres, we had to close, but we haven’t been idle.

“When we open again, we shall have new toilets, which, together with our new seating and flooring, will make The John Peel the most comfortable theatre in Cumbria.”

The new set-up will increase the number of toilets, offer greater privacy and a more hygienic area for people those who use the facilities.

The new lay-out means they can have five, instead of four toilets, ensuring greater privacy and comfort for all.

The group has also held two virtual Zoom open mic nights.

The evenings, with the latest one held just last week, are aimed at raining money for the upgrades that were being made to the toilet facilities at the John Peel Theatre.

Normally, it relies on income from ticket and refreshment sales throughout the year to pay overheads and do routine maintenance and repairs.

With the support of audience, friends and grant money from Cumbria Community Foundation and the Hadfield Trust, the team is now using the money to do all the necessary work to bring the toilets up to the 21st century standard.

Therefore, it is asking those who would normally attend open mic nights or enjoyed the virtual one last week to make small donation.