THE new auditorium at Cardigan's Theatr Mwldan opened its doors to the public for the first time on Friday.

It is hoped that Mwldan 2, as the auditorium is known, will lessen the need for people to travel to Swansea for a comfy cinema experience. The facility can also accommodate bigger live performances, bringing the theatre into line with other major venues in Wales. Welsh Assembly First Minister Rhodri Morgan said he believed the re-vamped theatre would play an integral part in the economic regeneration of the region.

"On my frequent visits to Cardigan, I have seen the Theatr Mwldan Project taking shape," he said. "I am confident it will make a massive difference to the area."

The creation of Mwldan 2 and a bigger, better foyer at the theatre are part of a £6.9 million development project for Cardigan, due to be completed in June. Theatr Mwldan's existing auditorium and cafe are also being renovated as part of the scheme.