Canterbury's new £25.6m Marlowe Theatre has been officially unveiled for the first time by HRH The Earl of Wessex, following the completion of a two-year construction project.

A gala event marked the opening of the new arts venue, which has been designed by London-based Keith Williams Architects and replaces a former building first opened in the 1930s but that has now been demolished.

The new Marlowe Theatre includes a 1,200-seat main auditorium set across three levels, with an orchestra pit for 80 musicians. Bars, cafés and a piazza also formed part of the scheme.

Canterbury City Council (CCC) will manage and own the property, which is set to cater for a wide range of alternative, community and educational projects in the Marlowe Studio.

CCC was the lead funding partner in the development, contributing £17m, while further financial support was provided by Kent County Council and the regional development agency.

John Gilbey, leader of CCC, said: "[The theatre] will provide an annual economic boost of an estimated £25m and employment for 150 staff.

"And for performers, it offers a world-class venue to show off their talents. The opening is the culmination of many years' hard work and we are very proud of the end result."