ONE of the country’s most well-known rural theatre companies is moving to Ludlow.

Pentabus are starting their 50th birthday celebrations with by moving their operations to the recently refurbished Ludlow Assembly Rooms, placing the organisation in the centre of their local market town.

After 40 years on the farm estate at the Old School in Bromfield, the move will give Pentabus a long-term home, make the organisation more accessible to artists and audiences alike with good public transport links, and provide a dedicated library and hang-out space especially designed by the award-nominated designer Charlie Cridlan, who collaborated with Pentabus.

Pentabus will work alongside the team at the Assembly Rooms and be part of building a thriving creative community in the heart of Ludlow, allowing the organisation to remain rooted in the local community even when engaging in works across the nation.

 A spokesperson said Pentabus opened its most recent live production, Driftwood, at the Assembly Rooms to a packed house and a fantastic reception and is delighted that all future productions can open at its new, greener and more accessible, home.

Commenting on the move, Verity Overs-Morrell, Executive Director, Pentabus said: “The entire Pentabus team are thrilled to make Ludlow Assembly Rooms Pentabus' new home, deepening our existing close ties.

“The warmth received during our recent production of Driftwood and our Young Writers showcases was truly heartening. As we take this exciting step into our 50th Anniversary, we eagerly look forward to having more of you be a part of Pentabus.”

Steve Catanach, Interim Business Manager, Ludlow Assembly Rooms also said: “Everyone at Ludlow Assembly Rooms is delighted to welcome Pentabus to our building.

“Whilst we will continue to maintain and broaden our own programme of cinema, live events, and workshops, it’s fitting for us to now be home to one of the most esteemed national theatrical production companies.

“We look forward to enjoying the mutual benefits that come from sharing our resources and knowledge.

“Together we will be able to provide high quality, theatrical productions that will be accessible to Ludlow’s residents and visitors alike.”