Sam EmanuelA new �1m performing arts centre has been opened at a Norwich school by a famous comedian, who used the special event to inspire the next generation of performing artists with some of his own hilarious work.Sam Emanuel

A new �1m performing arts centre has been opened at a Norwich school by a famous comedian, who used the special event to inspire the next generation of performing artists with some of his own hilarious work.

Town Close House School's new facility, which has been named the Read Hall in recognition of the long-standing connection of governor Bryan Read and his family to the school, was opened yesterday by Adam Buxton, co-presenter of The Adam and Joe Show on Channel 4, who now hosts a show of the same name on BBC radio.

The school hosted a special assembly to mark the opening of the building, which is dedicated to the performing arts and school assemblies and has been equipped with fixed tiered auditorium seating for 220 and advanced lighting and audio-visual systems.

It was created through a major conversion and refurbishment of the old sports hall after the school opened its new �3m sports hall last year.

Mr Buxton, who has appeared in several films and has two children at the school, said: 'I think there are so many children who feel frightened by the fact that they might not be as good at the academic subjects - I felt like that at school and so I hope that to have a statement like this building showing the children that the school is taking performing arts seriously will be reassuring.

'I'm surprised and delighted to have been asked to open the hall - the idea that my name is on a plaque, well, I can pretty much retire now.'

School headmaster Graeme Lowe said: 'The performing arts have always been very strong at Town Close, with excellent teaching and enthusiastic talented pupils. Now we have the facilities to showcase their talents and skills.

'We're thrilled to welcome Adam here - he has an enthusiastic fan base here and he certainly entertained and inspired his audience.'