Shanthi theatre on Anna Salai, owned by Sivaji Ganesan’s family, is all set to change its form. But it will remain true to its content, the owners say, as it dedicates itself to a different dimension of entertainment.

The Chennai-based Akshaya Pvt Ltd has entered into a joint venture with the owners to develop the one-acre property where a 70,000 sq ft commercial-cum-entertainment complex will come up, according to T Chitty Babu, Chairman and CEO, Akshaya.

The complex, constructed by G Umapathy in 1956-57 and later bought over by Sivaji Ganesan's family, will be replaced by a three-screen multiplex that would double up as a virtual gaming centre and retail hub.

Akshaya, while unwilling to divulge too many details, said the structure that will come up on the present premises will, in its final form, be a redevelopment of not only the theatre but of the entire Anna Salai.