A restaurant transformation is taking shape as part of a major upgrade to an Essex theatre.
The Cliffs Pavilion in Westcliff is undergoing an £8 million refurbishment, and theatre bosses have revealed the first look at the new dining space.
The wider project aims to secure the theatre’s future and improve visitors’ experience.
Revealing the first look at the revamped Pavilion Restaurant, a spokesman for Southend Theatres said: "Our new restaurant at the Cliffs Pavilion is taking shape.
"Furniture, appliances and more are on the way, but for now, take a first look at the space where you'll soon be able to dine before or after an incredible show."
The project is funded by £5.5 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, plus money from Southend Council and Trafalgar Entertainment.
Work is expected to continue through the autumn.
The existing restaurant is being expanded and redesigned as the renovation’s centrepiece.
Plans include increasing capacity from around 100 to 158 diners, a refreshed interior, and a new menu designed to enhance the pre-show dining experience.
The aim is to make dining an integral part of the theatre visit, rather than just a convenience.
Other improvements include a new entrance and lobby, better ventilation, an outdoor piazza and upgraded bars, toilets, lifts and accessibility.
Despite the scale of the refurbishment, the Cliffs Pavilion theatre has remained open throughout.
Some foyer areas have been closed and food and drink services have been limited, but ticket sales have continued as normal.
The Cliffs Pavilion first opened in 1964 and is now more than 60 years old.
It remains Essex’s largest purpose-built performing arts venue.
While work continues, pre-theatre dining has been relocated elsewhere in the building to accommodate guests.
Earlier plans for a new restaurant in a sunken garden were dropped after rising construction and labour costs, with the revised scheme focusing on expanding the existing restaurant.
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