Arena Theatre expands opening times and hosts film screenings in revamp

The University of Wolverhampton’s Arena Theatre in Wulfruna Street is expanding its opening times from three nights a week to six and has spent around £50,000 on equipment for a new film-screening event.

The screening of classic films, revivals, award winners and others will take place at 6pm every Monday for the Arena Film Theatre.

Neil Reading, general manager of the Arena Theatre, said: “We’re really excited to be offering a wider range of performance over six nights a week for the first time in our history.

“The main thing we want to do is encourage greater engagement with staff, students and the wider Wolverhampton audience.

“People will know The Arena for its innovative theatre experiences but we want to be able to appeal to a broader audience and become a destination of choice for arts and entertainment in the city.

“We think by offering a range of options such as film, spoken word and music we can attract new audiences and encourage new talent too.

“The changes will keep us as relevant as possible and by providing longer opening times and more food and drink will mean we create an opportunity for more people to come and experience what the Arena has to offer.”

The venue, which has been running for 42 years and stages 200 performances a year, has lined up films including Groundhog Day, The Exorcist, Avengers: Infinity War and others.

Prices range from £6 for the public, £5 for concessions and £3.50 for staff and students and season tickets will also be available.

The theatre will be between 10am and 10pm with a new a catering offer including hot food, coffee, cake and snacks and after 5pm a fully licensed bar will be in operation.

Professor Geoff Layer, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, said: “I’m a huge fan of what the Arena does and am proud that its part of the university. It is a fantastic venue in the heart of the city centre and a great space for staff, students and the wider public to come to and enjoy a range of arts and entertainment.”

The Arena Theatre is funded by the University of Wolverhampton and The Arts Council.

For a full programme of events, visit the Arena Theatre website or contact the box office on 01902 321321.