BIG names will perform at the Cutty Sark’s news studio theatre.

The major landmark’s lower hold has been transformed into an 85-seat studio theatre and will mark its opening on Wednesday, January 29, with a fortnight of special performances, including stand up from Alan Davies, Ross Noble and Richard Herring as well as talks from yachtsman Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and Griff Rhys Jones.

Musician Karine Polwart will perform on February 8 while mentalist-cum-stuntman Matthew Stirling – whose credits include five Harry Potter films, World War Z and Pirates of the Caribbean – hosts a special show with mentalism and mind-bending tricks on February 15.

As well as big acts, the theatre will also nurture local talent, with Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance,  Corelli College and Thomas Tallis school all lined up for shows.

The Cutty Sark’s director, Richard Doughty said: “Our aspiration is that the development of Cutty Sark as a flexible theatre space will enable us to reach out to new audiences who can discover the ship in a whole new way.

“This opening fortnight sets the agenda for Cutty Sark to become a unique new venue in the heart of Greenwich and London.”

Go to rmg.co.uk/studiotheatre