News and Events
Historic Liverpool Neptune theatre reopens as The Epstein
28th Jul 2011
Now restored to its former glory, the theatre also has a new name. The
Epstein Theatre is named in honour of Brian Epstein, the former manager
of The Beatles.
Leader of Liverpool City Council, Cllr Joe
Anderson joined owner David Ramsey and guests in the first official tour
this morning.
Cllr Anderson is pleased the theatre is back open
and believes its closure in 2005 left an irreplaceable hole in
Liverpool's cultural scene.
He said: "I’m absolutely delighted that our dream to bring it back into use is now officially a reality.
"The closure of the Neptune left a gaping hole in Liverpool’s cultural
scene and its absence has been sorely felt by performers and audiences
alike."
In renaming the venue, the council have been able to pay
tribute to a man who gave the city their greatest performers and kick
started the careers of many other acts.
A spokesperson for the
Epstein family said: "It’s a wonderful homage to Brian. He loved the
theatre and knew this one well, he would often catch a performance".
Having performed at the theatre as a boy, Mr Ramsey is understandably thrilled to see it reopen.
He said:I'm absolutely delighted and I'm very proud. It's essential to have it back open".
The owner believes it is fitting that the council chose to dedicate the theatre to Mr Epstein.
Mr Ramsey added: "I think it's a great tribute to Brian Epstein. He deserves this and more".
The
Liverpool Corporation took over the 98-year-old building in 1967 to be
run 'by the people, for the people' and amateur performers in the city
will be pleased to know that Cllr Anderson is keen to maintain that
sentiment.
Les James, a member of Alsop Drama Group, performed at
the old theatre for over 35 years and believes that it is vital for
amateur dramatic groups across the city.
He said:" the theatre is
very important to groups like Alsop need this sort of theatre to
perform in. It's important because it will be used for people of the
city to enjoy".
To bring it up to modern day standards, the
theatre now has a new lighting throughout and a new stage management
system which producers to communicate with the crew without disrupting
the performance.
Despite the changes, the grade II listed
building has still managed to retain some of its original features. The
original chandelier has been refurbished and is fully operational once
more.
Nobles Construction were responsible for the restoration
and the Liverpool based company are equally happy to see the project
finished.
Peter Linford, director of the company said: "the Neptune has always been one of Liverpool’s cultural jewels.
"We’re delighted to be handing the building back to Liverpool City Council as it enters the next step in its history."
Source: Click
