Liverpool's Epstein Theatre prepares for autumn gala-night reopening
Liverpool’s Epstein Theatre will herald its return with a gala night on September 19.
The grade II-listed theatre will throw open its doors two years after closing with the special celebration this autumn, featuring local acts and celebrities.
The gala night takes place on the anniversary of the birthday of the building’s namesake, the Beatles’ manager Brian Epstein.
Test events will take place this spring and summer ahead of the official reopening, while venue managers said that £1 million was currently being invested in returning the Edwardian theatre to its full glory – with refurbishment work involving refitting the stage and remodelling the venue’s bar.
It comes after the Epstein was forced to shut its doors in June 2023, following a decision by the city council, which owns the theatre’s freehold, to withdraw financial support.
In the two years before its closure, it was run by local company Epstein Entertainments Ltd.
But the theatre is now in a position to welcome visitors once more thanks to the transfer of its head lease to JSM Company Group – which runs a number of properties in Liverpool.
Liverpool City Council will retain the freehold.
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Anthony Proctor, who was the Epstein’s theatre manager and programmer between 2022 and 2023, will return to oversee the venue as general manager and theatre director.
He commented: "I’m absolutely thrilled and really excited to return to the Epstein and to bring this historic theatre back to life two years after it closed its doors.
“I know the Epstein holds a very special place in the heart of Liverpool audiences as well as generations of artists who have performed in its stunning auditorium, and I can’t wait to reveal the first new season and officially launch it with an amazing gala evening, aptly being held on what would have been Brian Epstein’s birthday."
Harry Doyle, of Liverpool City Council, added: "This is hugely exciting news for the city and our much-loved cultural sector.
"Anthony is the perfect person to breathe new life into this gem – his passion, ambition and vision signify a new chapter for the theatre, and I look forward to seeing its renaissance and working with the team to help promote this cultural asset.
"Here’s to a bright future filled with incredible performances and unforgettable moments at this iconic venue."
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