MALVERN’S Coach House Theatre has just taken delivery of a new computer to control all its technical functions.

The acquisition of the Apple MacBook follows the installation of a new LED stage-lighting system at the theatre in Grange Road, intended to be more cost-effective and efficient.

The system was funded with support from Malvern Town Council, Malvern Theatre Players, the Elmley Foundation, Severn Wye Energy and the Friends of the Coach House Theatre.

The computer will control the lighting system, along with the theatre’s sound, video and stage effects.

Cllr Paul Tuthill allocated over £1,000 from his Worcestershire County Council discretionary fund to help pay for the laptop, which was match-funded by other contributors.

Cllr Tuthill said: “It is rewarding to see the computer up and running and providing a high-tech facility for the Coach House Theatre that plays such a key role in the Malvern arts scene.”

Theatre executive trustee Chris Bassett said: “The theatre is now equipped to fully professional standards. The acquisition of the computer will enable both in-house and touring productions to be staged more effectively.”

The Coach House Theatre was developed by Malvern Theatre Players to provide an affordable venue for community arts activities.

The Victorian building was originally the stables and coach house for a large house, the Grange, next door.

It was used as a store and garage by Malvern Hills District Council and, for a time, as a scenery store for Malvern Theatres and Malvern Theatre Players.

In about 1984 the building was condemned as unsafe and scheduled for demolition.

Residents campaigned to save the building and Malvern Theatre Players obtained planning consent to create a studio theatre. It opened in May 2006.