Theatre-goers in Hamilton will soon be able to rest a little easier when it rains, at least if they are attending functions at City Hall.

The new west portico at the landmark building will be opened tomorrow and will offer shelter for exiting patrons.

According to a release from the Corporation of Hamilton, the west portico was "originally conceived as a purely functional addition to the building". It was to minimise the impact of light and street noise in the theatre and offer exiting patrons some protection against wind and rain.

City Hall was designed by the late Bermudian architect Will Onions. When the decision was made to add the west portico, committee members quickly recognised the importance of ensuring the addition was in keeping with his original design.

Plans were carried out by design firm Cooper and Gardner and they worked closely with the Bermuda Historical Buildings Committee. In fact, the Corporation said work on the building's design took longer than the actual construction. Construction started in mid-December 2001 and was completed the middle of this summer.

The opening will take place tomorrow at 10.30 a.m.