Kent College, Pembury, is the latest in a long line of educational establishments to recognise the potential of Maltbury's Metrodeck, having recently bought 68 units of the versatile staging system towards the conversion of the main hall into a £1m state-of-the-art theatre facility intended for use by Kent College and the local community. Working closely with Philip Sparkes, managing director of Maltbury, was Chris Hinks, bursar of Kent College. According to Hinks, the decision to use Maltbury staging was based on a number of factors: "I have read several articles about the company and its various installations and I know that it has an excellent reputation for top quality service and products. Having used Maltbury before, I am aware of the wide range of staging systems it has, which meant it was able to offer me a bespoke solution to my brief."For the multi-purpose complex, Maltbury was briefed to equip the hall with staging components that will enable the venue to be used as a theatre or as an open area for exhibitions and events. To meet the brief, Maltbury customised the staging modules to create maple tongue-and-groove topped decks, which cover the orchestra pit, blending in with the surrounding floor. When the pit is open, carpeted decks create tiers inside it and additional standard painted decks can be used elsewhere.
On Tuesday 19 March, students of the college are marking the opening of the facility, which will be known as The Judi Dench Theatre, with a Royal Gala Performance of the musical Camelot. The show will be attended by their Royal Highnesses the Earl and Countess of Wessex.
(Lee Baldock)
