The state-of-the-art 400-seat venue is part of a £13 million development project at the council's Carnmoney Road North headquarters, which has also involved the final phase of refurbishment within the historic mill buildings and the creation of a new civic square.

A capacity crowd was welcomed to the official opening by Mayor John Scott, who expressed his delight that the council's ambitious redevelopment plans at Mossley Mill had come to fruition.

Guests were treated to an evening of classical music from the Ulster Orchestra, conducted by Anthony Inglis, and featuring a spellbinding performance by Ballyclare flautist Colin Fleming.

Speaking at the event, alderman Scott thanked the Arts Council and Ulster Garden Villages for their generous financial support of the project, and also the council and its staff for their "enthusiasm and commitment to the completion of the Mossley Mill site."

Speaking to the Times afterwards, the Mayor commented: "It was a wonderful night. All the staff involved in organising it have to be congratulated. The whole event was absolutely great and I really can't praise them enough.

"I'm really proud that we have a great facility like this in the borough and I hope that people will come along and support it."

Lorraine McDowell, Director of Operations with the Arts Council, also welcomed the launch of the impressive new venue.

"The opening of Theatre at The Mill marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Newtownabbey. This wonderful new building provides the area with a dedicated drama space designed to showcase a full range of theatre productions tailored to the needs of local audiences," she said.

Tony Hopkins CBE, Chairman of Ulster Garden Villages, congratulated the council on the creation of such a "magnificent new facility."

"This new performance venue will afford a cultural facility for artistic excellence and education, whilst actively involving all members of the local community.

"We are delighted to be able to be part of this new stage of development at the mill and hope that the theatre will be enjoyed by many generations to come," he added.

A fantastic programme of high quality performances, including the Northern Ireland premiere of Sweeney Todd which opened on Tuesday (February 2), has already been lined up for the new Theatre at the Mill.

For details of forthcoming shows and ticket information call the box office on 9034 0202 or log on to www.theatreatthemill.com

For more coverage see this week's Newtownabbey Times...