A new centre will rise from the ruins of Neath's Gwyn Hall this autumn, four years after a fire reduced it to a burned-out shell.
Workmen are still on target with a £7 million restoration project, despite problems caused by the weather.
And the opening will be marked with a series of small-scale events leading up to Christmas, with a grand ceremony likely to follow early in 2012.
The main building is now weathertight and construction of the rear extension housing the theatre changing rooms, toilets and staircase is due to start next week.
When work is finished, the council has said the hall will boast a 400-seat community theatre, 140-capacity studio venue, 70-seat cinema and café.
Mr Nutt said the council was planning a programme of events for when it opened.
"We will probably have several smaller events to begin with, to test the equipment because it is a very sophisticated auditorium.
"After that we are looking at some form of official opening but that is still in the early stages."
But while work continues at the Gwyn Hall, the restoration of another of Neath's town centre jewels is drawing to a close.
Victoria Gardens will be opening soon following a £1.4 million polish which has seen some of its original features reinstated or restored.
"We are also working hard on the town centre redevelopment but we think that is going to take longer, bearing in mind the current economic climate," added Mr Nutt.
Council leader Ali Thomas said: "The Gwyn Hall is another piece of the jigsaw of the redevelopment of Neath, and I am pleased to see the rebuild progressing well.
"I am also pleased to see that the reopening of Victoria Gardens is imminent."
