Built on the site of the former Westminster Theatre at 12 Palace Street, it is being programmed by artistic director David Gilmore, who directed the original productions of Lend Me a Tenor, Daisy Pulls It Off and The Hired Man in the West End, and the long-running revival of Grease that played at the Dominion, Cambridge and Victoria Palace Theatres. He was formerly artistic director of Southampton's Nuffield Theatre.

According to press materials, the intention is to "produce a varied programme to include musicals, comedies and classic revivals as well as offering a London venue to touring and regional productions." The inaugural season is to be announced in April.

The new theatre, entirely funded by private investment, has been designed by Foster Wilson Architects, and includes a 312-seat theatre as well as a flexible studio space, holding 100 seated people or 150 standing, that will present one-night and short-run comedy and live music including jazz and cabaret.

The venue's management team also includes Robert Mackintosh as joint CEO and Creative Director, James Albrecht as Assistant Artistic Director, Guy Kitchenn as Executive Theatre Director and Lady Lucy French as Director of Development.

For further details, visit the theatre's website, www.stjamestheatre.co.uk.