THE design of the new Riverfront arts centre provoked a debate that flashed across the Argus' letters page for months - and readers will be intrigued to know the interior decor is as provocative as its futuristic exterior.

All wide-open spaces, rippled glass and ankle-level lighting, the foyers and hallways incorporating the box office, the bar, and what will be a cafeteria and shop are certainly impressive.

The centre itself, certainly, is bigger than it seems when you're driving past it, and though the beautiful aubergine and silver 493-capacity auditorium is smaller than most theatres, it houses a massive stage area with a 21.5-metre flying and lighting rig.

Other facilities here at the Riverfront are world-class and provide an enormous opportunity for the city to become a mainstay on the theatre and event touring circuit.

Three fully equipped studio workshops, a particularly impressive dance studio, a fine art gallery, a recording studio, a 150-seat studio and cinema and, of course, a custom-built interactive basement space to house Newport's medieval ship once it is fully conserved and rebuilt are all ready to be used.

The cost of this fabulous venue was £16 million, and it seems that taxpayers' money has been well spent.

Some would argue about the aesthetics of the purple neon strips that adorn some of the fittings in the foyer, but on the whole visitors should look forward to some good nights out.

The cream of the world's talent could come here and feel at home, and in its first season the Riverfront is hosting the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, comedians Bradley Walsh and Jeff Green, The Nutcracker, performed by Swansea Ballet Russe, and an audience with former political editor of BBC and ITN John Sergeant.

Cinema, dance, opera, theatre and panto complete the line-up, and, having seen it, I say it's time to enjoy the show.