News & Events
Capital Redevelopment of the Lyric Theatre
The American Friends are working with the Lyric's Patron, Liam Neeson, to raise awareness in the US of the theater's exciting redevelopment plans and to explore and develop opportunities for international artistic exchange and collaboration.
The Lyric's original venue opened in 1968 and closed in January 2008 as it was no longer fit for purpose. The physical deterioration of the building had been a cause of concern for some time, presenting numerous health and safety risks which were increasingly difficult to mitigate. The very limited facilities were literally bursting at the seams and could not accommodate growing demand, particularly for youth and education activities. Physical access and front of house amenities were extremely poor. There were no production facilities or administration offices and actors worked in dilapidated trailers. Unions described the backstage working conditions as 'farcical' and 'Dickensian'. Continuing to patch up the venue was simply not a cost-effective, safe or viable option.
It is vital to the Lyric's future growth, impact and sustainability that it provides the best possible environment in which to encourage the creation and enjoyment of the arts by a wide and diverse constituency. To this end, the Lyric is planning to open a new state-of-the-art theater on the banks of the River Lagan in Belfast in 2011. It will be a landmark building, a source of great civic pride to the people of Northern Ireland, and a catalyst for real change in arts provision for artists and audiences alike. Designed by award-winning Dublin-based architects O'Donnell & Tuomey, the new theater will be alive and dramatic at all times. Spacious lobbies and bars overlooking the river, two beautiful auditoria, education rooms, and an exciting artistic programme will make the Lyric a thriving social hub and a real visitor destination.
For more information on the redevelopment, visit