Detailed designs and models of how an East Oxford theatre will look after a multi-million pound revamp are to go on show to the public.

Preliminary demolition work at the Pegasus Theatre, Magdalen Road, began last month with the major work due to begin in April.

On Tuesday, February 24, the theatre will open its doors to the public to talk about how the building will change.

Pegasus Theatre’s Gill Jaggers said: “We want to make sure local residents get an opportunity to get a good look at what’s going to go on because the work will be starting shortly.

“Although the demolition of the workshops has begun already, that’s fairly minor considering what’s going to be done.”

The work will cost up to £7.4m and will include demolition of the buildings surrounding the main auditorium, which will be retained, and new purpose-built backstage and workshop areas.

A new café and front of house area will also be constructed.

A new model along with drawings of the proposed design will be on show, and architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios will be in attendance to tell people how the building is going to look.

Pegasus artistic director and chief executive Euton Daley and head of arts education Yasmin Sidhwa will talk about plans for future activities at the theatre, and films of work by Pegasus and Oxford Youth Theatre, which is based at the site, will be screened.

Mr Daley said: “We also want to thank all the people who have supported us throughout the campaign, many of whom have either donated or given their time.

“I know people will share my enthusiasm for the project.”

While the work is being carried out, which is expected to take about 15 months, groups based at the theatre will continue to work in other venues and details of this will be available at the open evening.

Some details of the planned programme, once the new building is complete, will also be available.

The event will start at 6.30pm and the theatre will be providing drinks and free freshly-made pancakes.

fbardsley@oxfordmail.co.uk