A WALLINGFORD theatre reopened last night after a £650,000 refurbishment with a rock and roll-style panto.

The Corn Exchange theatre, which has been refurbished, redecorated and re-roofed, sprang back into life with a gala performance of its new show Cinderella.

Director Marilyn Johnstone and the Sinodun Players promised a ‘high-octane’ show worthy of the occasion, which also marked the Sinodun Players’ 70th annual pantomime.

Corn Exchange favourite Fiona Huntingford-Ledger, who plays Buttons, said: “We’re very excited to be bringing a rock and roll pantomime to the Corn Exchange, which is looking wonderful.”

The pantomime is the first show staged at the Corn Exchange since the work on the roof, heating and ventilation system was completed. The refurbishment project remains ongoing and £150,000 is still needed to complete it.

Oliver Hemmings, chairman of Corn Exchange Wallingford Ltd, said: “The work undertaken so far has cost over £650,000 for which we are grateful to our sponsors including South Oxfordshire District Council.

“We’ve also done some work in the auditorium but there’s lots more to do which is why we need another £150,000.”

The pantomime will run for another 15 shows. When it closes the facility will resume as Wallingford’s cinema and theatre.

p Book tickets through the Corn Exchange box office on 01491 825000.