A PHOTOGRAPHY exhibition showcasing talents on and off the stage has gone on display at the Wyvern Theatre.

There are 20 black and white images taken by Swindon Photo-graphic Society which form the attraction.

The group made several visits to the venue over the summer, taking pictures of the Wyvern when it was empty and also during rehearsals for the Summer Youth Project’s Bugsy Malone.

Richard Loftus, the theatre’s marketing manager, said: “I love projects like this as it puts the Wyvern at the heart of the community. It is a great opportunity for professional and amateur photographers from the group.

“This year was the 20th anniversary of the Summer Youth Project, with the production primarily aimed at developing the skills of those aged between nine and 21, but this year, given the ages of those in the photographic society, we’ve been able to provide opportunities to those aged between nine and 87. That is a great way to mark our anniversary.”

The display went up on Monday and will be in place until the end of next week.

Richard said: “As there is no external light here the theatre can be really difficult to photograph but I think the group have done a really good job. I think this exhibition will give our visitors a different perspective of the theatre.”

Society members were delighted with the access they had to the Wyvern.

Malcolm Cole, group president and exhibition secretary, said: “The day that we went backstage was rather special for me personally as I’d been backstage when I was much younger and it was interesting to see how things have changed and the bits that remain the same also.

“It was a pleasure to be involved with the youth project as well and I hope the youngsters will come in and see these atmospheric digital shots and like them.