A Vision for the Future
As the only full-time producing theatre in Northern Ireland, the Lyric makes a unique and vital contribution to the community. Our mission is to produce high-quality professional theatre that is alive to the complex cultural experience and diverse traditions of our community, and to use the unique power of live theatre to empower, inspire, engage and educate. It is vital to the company’s future growth, impact and sustainability that we provide the best possible environment in which to encourage the creation and enjoyment of the arts by a wide and diverse constituency.
The Lyric’s original venue opened in 1968 and closed in January 2008 as it was no longer fit for purpose. The rapid deterioration of the building had been a cause of concern for some time and presented numerous health and safety risks which were increasingly difficult to mitigate. The building was literally bursting at the seams and could not accommodate growing demand, particularly for youth and education activities. Physical access was extremely poor and front of house amenities were limited. There were no production facilities or administration offices and actors worked in dilapidated portacabins. Industrial 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.
When the Lyric’s new theatre opens on the banks of the River Lagan 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. Award-winning architects O’Donnell & Tuomey have developed an international reputation for excellence and have received numerous national and international awards. Built in a stunning blend of brick, glass and steel the new theatre will be alive and dramatic at all times. Spacious lobbies and bars overlooking the river, beautiful auditoria and an exciting artistic programme will make the Lyric a thriving social hub and a real visitor destination. Our new state-of-the-art theatre on the banks of the River Lagan will transform the cultural landscape and enable the company to:
- Develop new audiences for the arts;
- Increase opportunities for active participation in the arts, particularly for children and young people within disadvantaged communities and marginalised groups;
- Increase access to the arts for people with disabilities;
- Nurture and support individual creative professional development through a programme of lifelong learning for aspiring writers, performers, directors and designers;
- Contribute to community development and good relations by promoting cultural diversity;
- Contribute to the development of cultural tourism and the creation of a new and positive image of Northern Ireland and its rich cultural heritage;
- Improve the company’s financial viability and long-term sustainability.