The New Theatre
“The revamped Lyric theatre in Belfast is a lesson in how buildings should be built.”
The Observer
“A real work of art.”
Belfast Telegraph
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 entertain.
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 very limited. There were no production facilities or administration offices. Actors rehearsed in dilapidated portacabins in backstage conditions that were described as 'Dickensian'. Continuing to patch up the venue was simply not a cost-effective, safe or viable option. We had to find a way to provide the best possible environment in which to encourage the creation and enjoyment of theatre by a wide and diverse constituency.
After several years of business planning and feasibility studies, the Lyric held an international architectural competition in 2003 and selected award-winning architects O'Donnell + Tuomey to design the new theatre. At the same time, the Lyric also formally launched the Time to Rebuild campaign heralding the start of one of the most significant capital fundraising challenges ever undertaken by an arts organisation in Northern Ireland. A long period of design development and fundraising ensued, with construction work finally beginning on site in March 2009. The new Lyric opened for business on 1 May 2011 and has been widely hailed as a landmark building which marks the continued regeneration of Belfast and Northern Ireland. With spacious foyers and cafe/bar overlooking the River Lagan, two beautiful auditoria and an exciting artistic programme, the Lyric has quickly become a popular visitor attraction and a thriving social and creative hub.
A Real Work of Art
“They say that all the world is a stage, and there is no better example of the vibrancy of the arts life in Northern Ireland than the gala opening last night of the new Lyric Theatre in Belfast. For many years the Lyric helped to keep alive the light of artistic creativity, even in the darkest days of Northern Ireland's recent history. There were many challenges but these were overcome, with determination and style. The opening of the new Lyric is a tribute to those who never lost the vision. ”
Belfast Telegraph