NOT content with being patron to one Essex-based theatre company, actor Richard Wilson is now about to help out another.

That’s the Mercury Theatre in Colchester who are continuing in their bid to raise the £2.9million needed from donations, trusts, foundations and the general public to go towards their Mercury Rising Campaign.

The £8.9million scheme will see parts of the theatre demolished before extensions and a revamp take place resulting in a bigger foyer, better backstage facilities and a brand-new cafe.

The main auditorium will also be revamped and extended, while a new rehearsal and community space will be built in order to support the best talent in the town.

Arts Council England has already confirmed its £4 million contribution to the theatre, which in turn has unlocked an additional £1 million of regional money from the South East Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Fund.

Artistic director Daniel Buckroyd says: “This project is about securing a theatre, accessible to all, for this and future generations.”

As part of a rolling roster of fundraising events, the theatre has organised a special black tie glitzy dinner where the television comedy actor will be star guest.

There are only a few tickets left for the exclusive Mercury Theatre gala dinner, which takes place on Friday, March 2.

Then the Mercury is taking over Colchester Town Hall to host a special black tie event in aid of the Mercury Rising capital appeal.

The event will include a champagne reception held in the Mayor’s Parlour, followed by three-course meal and entertainment in the beautiful Moot Hall, all hosted by Richard Wilson OBE, perhaps best known for his iconic role as Victor Meldrew in TV’s One Foot in the Grave, but also for his years of experience in theatre, winning awards for both acting and directing.

Richard says: “I am delighted to be joining the Mercury Theatre for their Gala Dinner, and look forward to seeing the support of the local community towards their Mercury Rising capital appeal. I fully support the development of regional theatre, and the plans for the Mercury Theatre will secure the creative future of Colchester for generations to come.”

Since 2014, Richard has been the patron of Frinton Summer Theatre, one of the longest running summer Reps in the country, and even appeared in the hit comedy The Dog by good friend and comedy writer Jon Canter.

Tickets are still available at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk or via the Box Office on 01206 573948.