AYR’S popular Gaiety Theatre is closing the main auditorium for a six-month refurbishment project.

The studio theatre and Stage Door café will remain open as usual during the work which is scheduled to start on Monday, February 8.

Staff are currently working behind the scenes before the curtain temporarily falls on the main stage, as they put together arrangements for the upgrade.

A spokeswoman for the Gaiety said: “The main theatre will reopen again in September, but meanwhile customers can continue enjoying the Stage Door café, bar and restaurant which has become a favourite since opening three years ago.

“Also staying open is the studio theatre, with forthcoming attractions planned which includes a murder mystery with an April Fools twist and Quattro MacJazz, a Dixieland quartet specialising in jazz and gospel music.”

Some of the work will be not be instantly apparent, but is designed to enhance audience comfort, such as new ventilation and heating, while an upgraded foyer, as well as new and refurbished seating will also make a difference, with improved wheelchair locations catering for those who are less mobile.

During the main theatre’s closure, Ayr Town Hall will host several shows including Scottish comedy production, Mum’s The Word 2, and a gala concert called A Passion for Opera.