Work began on our new Theatre in March 2009 and is due for completion in Spring 2011. The total cost of the project is approximately £18 million and when completed will bring a state-of-the-art theatre to Belfast for audiences at home and abroad to enjoy.
The architect of the building is O’Donnell & Tuomey. Based in Dublin, they have developed an international reputation for excellence and have received numerous national and international awards.
Built in a stunning blend of ‘Belfast’ brick, glass and steel the new theatre will be alive and dramatic at all times. Spacious lobbies and bars overlooking the river with a thriving artistic programme will make the Lyric a thriving social hub and creative learning space.
Almost three times the size of the old theatre, the new building is 1773 m2 or 19,084 sq ft and has three distinct areas.
1. The 390 seat auditorium is the main performance area, providing an extra 90 seats in a single steep rake. The intimacy of the old theatre remains as the body of the audience is not broken by balconies or barriers ensuring actors and audience share the same space.
2. A second performance studio accommodates between 110 and 150 people, can be adapted to suit any performance style and will explore experimental work as well as reimagining classic plays and developing the skills of local artists.
3. The third space is a rehearsal room the same size as the main auditorium stage.
Other facilities include
- Education Suite
- Rehearsal Space
- Green Room
- Dressing Rooms
- Board Room
- Back Stage facilities
- Box office
- Café/Bar
The new theatre is accessible for people with disabilities.