AFTER months of voluntary work, the Lowestoft Players are finally ready to officially open the doors of the Bethel as their new headquarters and rehearsal rooms.

AFTER months of voluntary work, the Lowestoft Players are finally ready to officially open the doors of the Bethel as their new headquarters and rehearsal rooms.

The Players became the new owners of the former Seaman's Mission situated in Battery Green Road almost 12 months ago when it was put on the market and an ambitious programme of work has taken place to convert the building into a new home and rehearsal space for the award winning theatre group.

The building has been completely redecorated preserving the main chapel as a giant rehearsal/dance studio and the remainder of the building has been converted into further rehearsal space, a green room, a costume department and a props store.

Dominating the main rehearsal studio is a long mirrored wall and over a dozen giant sized paintings based on some of the shows performed by the society in its 42-year history.

The Players' publicity officer Stephen Wilson said: 'When the society was first formed back in September 1967 it had no premises and during the early years rehearsals took place in various school rooms, the former Lowestoft library in Suffolk Road and the now demolished St John's Hall situated behind the church in London Road South.

'For over 30 years the Players have been fortunate to have the use of premises in Stradbroke Road, Pakefield, courtesy of Mrs Hilda Catchpole and the late Albert Catchpole.

'The Players who now regularly perform three shows a year at the Marina Theatre have always dreamed of owning their own premises and now we have our very own home just round the corner from the theatre.'

An official opening ceremony for members is planned for Friday, January 15 and on Saturday, January 16 the Players are holding an open day when the building will be open to the general public between 10am and 4pm. Anyone interested in seeing the Players new rehearsal space or indeed becoming a member is welcome to come along.

The Lowestoft Players are currently rehearsing for their latest pantomime extravaganza, Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp which opens for a nine-performance run at the Marina Theatre from Saturday, January 23 to Sunday, January 31. Tickets are currently available from the theatre box office on 01502 533200.