Liverpool Playhouse plans 'radical' refurbishment to secure future

Bosses at Liverpool Playhouse Theatre have unveiled ambitions for a "radical and original" refurbishment to protect the venue’s future.

Mark Da Vanzo, chief executive of Liverpool and Merseyside Theatres Trust, which runs the Playhouse and the Everyman theatres, said the Playhouse needs a "major refurbishment" if it is to survive another 100 years.

“The Liverpool Playhouse is a cultural gem of both local and national significance. Entertaining audiences since 1866, the theatre has played a vital role in the cultural lives of our communities for more than 150 years," he said. 

He added: "Our beloved Playhouse is now in need of a major refurbishment, to both ensure it survives for another century and is as environmentally sustainable as it can be. We hope that the refurbishment of the Playhouse will be an exemplar for similarly aged theatres across the world, demonstrating that you can improve the environmental credentials of a listed building while also acting as a catalyst for a cultural regeneration of its surrounding area."

The theatre is now in the process of appointing a design practice that would be charged with developing a capital refurbishment feasibility study to "safeguard" the venue. 

In partnership with Liverpool City Council, Liverpool City Region and Liverpool Business Improvement District, the LMTT is developing local and national plans for the theatre. This includes working alongside other cultural venues in Liverpool to create better links.