Acclaimed Bafta and Academy Award winner, Dame Judi Dench, has officially opened Reigate Grammar School's new Drama Studio.

The actress cut the ribbon at the school on Tuesday 30 April. Drama students also got their chance to speak to her as she was shown round the new facility, which has cost more than 70 thousand pounds.

Dame Judi Dench narrowly missed out on an Oscar this year for Iris but she was awarded a best actress Bafta for the role. Her latest film, The Shipping News, is now playing in cinemas across the UK.

Work began on the Drama Studio last October and the area is now extensively used for rehearsals, teaching and performances. The refurbishment includes new theatrical lighting, black drapes and black blinds over new windows. The flooring is also shock-absorbent.

Pupils at the school have staged two extremely successful productions during this academic year. A cast and crew of 120 performed the musical Oliver in December and the Concert Hall was then transformed into Regency Bath with a production of The Rivals in March. The younger pupils are now preparing for two evenings of Junior Performing Arts at the end of June, which will include dramatic presentations.

Head of Drama, Sarah Branston, says: "The new Studio is very beneficial to the students' understanding of theatre. We are fortunate to have such a facility and also lucky that one of the greatest actresses of all time can help us celebrate its use."

Date of Press Release: May 2002