£1.63m upgrade to VillaGaiety equipment backed by Tynwald

A major upgrade of sound and lighting technology at the Island's two main venues received backing in Tynwald yesterday.

The £1.63m spend will see equipment replaced that was installed in the Gaiety Theatre and Villa Marina in 1996 and 2004 respectively.

It marks the first upgrade since the Villa Marina was renovated 20 years ago.

The three year capital works project will overhaul the rigging and improve the acoustics of the venues before modern and interchangeable lighting and sound facilities are installed.

It will make it possible for acts to 'plug and play' without the need to import or hire equipment at significant cost.

The project will be carried out in two phases.