THE keys to a famous theatre were handed over yesterday to mark the completion of a nine-month renovation project designed to make it a flagship arts venue for the region.

Sunderland's Edwardian Empire Theatre was returned to its rightful owners after a £4.6m refurbishment that has brought its facilities up to date.

The work, which will allow big West End productions to come to Sunderland, has been completed on schedule and in time for the opening of Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash-hit musical Starlight Express, on Thursday.

The theatre now has a larger stage, a taller fly tower and enhancement to technology and backstage facilities, as well as improvements to the auditorium.

Yesterday, contractors Gleesons handed over the keys to general manager Dominic Stokes and Sunderland City Council leader Bob Symonds.

Councillor Symonds said: "I am delighted that we can once again open the doors of the region's biggest theatre.

"This has been a major project to create the facilities required for major productions.

"The opening of Starlight Express, on Thursday, is just the start of an exciting programme, which will bring the top West End shows to the region for the first time.

"I would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard on this project at Gleesons, the city council and Clear Channel Entertainment, which operates Sunderland Empire on our behalf."