Liverpool’s Empire Theatre is set to embark on a journey of transformation as theatre management ATG Entertainment seeks to make improvements to the outside of the building. The company has submitted a planning application for amendments to the frontage of the over 150-year-old venue.
A planning application ‘to undertake repair and redecoration works to the front elevation including cleaning and repairs to stonework, canopy, windows and doors’ was approved in August, and this latest request will see digital signage added to the building’s façade.
As well as the addition of a new double-sided LED sign replacing the existing theatre signage, ATG Entertainment has also proposed fixes to windows, the canopy and the stone frontage. In a design statement submitted by the company, ATG said: ‘The new LED signage would provide a much neater and more vibrant appearance (than vinyl tethered by ropes), and would complement the appearance of the building and its longstanding cultural use… The proposal helps with the upgrade of the building and facilitates its operational requirements which, in turn, contribute to its viability and continued use as a theatre venue.’
The 2,3500-seat theatre, which is a listed building, was built as The New Prince of Wales Theatre and Opera House in 1866, before changing its name a year later to the Royal Alexandra Theatre and Opera House. It was renamed to the Empire in 1886 and took its current form in 1924. This will be the first major renovation since a major stage extension and front of house refurbishment in 1999. It is not expected that performances will be impacted by any of the work.