Jason Manford, Germaine Greer and David Starkey are among stars set to appear on the stage of Twickenham’s newest art centre – which had a spectacular opening last week.

The Exchange is a modern new build venue with state-of-the-art facilities, a 300-seat theatre, six studio rooms, large conservatory area and café-bar.

Situated conveniently close to Twickenham railway station, it’s hoped it will become a cultural beacon attracting distant visitors with a programme of theatre, music, talks and events.

Stuart Hobday, The Exchange’s creative director, said: “We aim to be a valuable cultural addition to the area. It’s important that local people see The Exchange as their space.

“As well as a rich programme of music, theatre, talks and family shows we are providing new spaces for people in the borough.”

The six studios and the theatre are available for hire by community groups, organisations, businesses and individuals for everything from classes, courses and meetings to conferences and parties.

Included in the launch season is a rare Q & A with artist Jeremy Dellar, poetry from multi award-winner Luke Wright, talks by Germaine Greer and journalist Gary Younge. The music line-up includes radical folk musician Nancy Kerr and singer songwriter Chris Wood.

The Exchange is also hosting talks by historian David Starkey and physicist Helen Czerski, as well as a solo performance by actor Ian Hughes, all as part of the Richmond Literature Festival.

There are modern film screening facilities with Twickenham Cinema Club confirmed as an early user and regular ‘rep’ showings planned for the near future.

Comedy kicks off with Shazia Mirza’s current hit With Love From St Tropez. In 2018 TV comedian Jason Manford will be bringing his first ever regular London Comedy Club to the venue.

This new venture is a partnership between Richmond Council and St Mary’s University, who will operate the venue. Council leader Paul Hodgins, other councillors and stakeholders attended the formal opening event.

Cllr Paul Hodgins said: ‘‘This is the next stage in the Council’s multi-million pound plan to improve and enhance Twickenham.

“The partnership with St Mary’s will bring immeasurable benefit to both the people of Richmond and Twickenham and students at the university.”

Professor Francis Campbell, vice-chancellor of St Mary’s, added: “I would like to thank the London Borough of Richmond for entrusting St Mary’s University with the stewardship of The Exchange.

“We aim to present an entertaining and thought-provoking programme of events and to offer a welcoming cultural space to people from the borough and beyond.”

For full details of the upcoming programme go to www.exchangetwickenham.co.uk. Ticket bookings can be made via the website or by calling 0208 240 2399.