Theatre director shares ‘exciting’ news as he plans to reopen famous city venue
Theatre director shares ‘exciting’ news as he plans to reopen famous city venue
An historic Liverpool theatre is set to reopen almost two years after it closed following the removal of financial support. In June 2023, the Epstein Theatre closed its doors to performances after 110 years under various identities.
With continuing financial pressures, Liverpool City Council confirmed it would bring to an end the funding support it had given to the site on Hanover Street since the 1960s. Many feared this would signal the long term closure of the famous venue.
In a Facebook post earlier today, it has been confirmed the theatre will live once more. Anthony Proctor-Williams, general manager of the Epstein said he would look to reopen a refurbished site later this year.
The announcement was welcomed by Liverpool Council’s cabinet member for Culture Cllr Harry Doyle, who said he looked forward to working with the theatre to get it back open.
In 2018 an agreement was struck between Epstein Entertainments Ltd, Liverpool Council and a commercial property landlord which owns the lease to the building but subleases the theatre back to the entertainment company.
As part of the management agreement, the council was to cover a proportion of the rent, service charge, utilities, and maintenance work. Before it pulled its financial support, the council said its most recent expenditure on the Epstein was in excess of £100,000 per year.
The 380-seat theatre based within Hanover House has hosted thousands of productions under its different iterations. In his social media post, Mr Proctor-Williams said: “The cat is out of the bag.
“I am delighted to share that I have returned to the Epstein Theatre as General Manager and Theatre Director. I’m going to need all of your help in bringing this beautiful place back to life. It’s so exciting.”
Mr Proctor-Williams added how the stage is to be refitted with new lighting, stage cloths and sound equipment. Backstage areas will be upgraded with a new bar fitted.
Reacting to the news, Cllr Doyle said: “Really exciting news for the city as the Epstein Theatre announces its re-opening. It was lovely to meet last week with returning theatre manager, Anthony Proctor-Williams.
“He’s so passionate about the Epstein. Looking forward to working with him to help promote this cultural asset.”