Liverpool’s iconic Epstein Theatre set to reopen

Liverpool’s beloved Epstein Theatre is set to reopen after a deal was agreed to breathe new life into the historic city centre venue.

The Grade II listed theatre closed its doors in June 2023 following Liverpool City Council’s decision to withdraw financial support, which had helped to keep the 112-year-old venue running. Now, The Epstein Theatre is set to welcome audiences once again, with new leaseholders and a management team promising a diverse and exciting programme of entertainment.

Test events will take place over the spring and summer, leading up to a full autumn schedule of shows. The reopening will be marked by a special Gala Night on Friday, 19 September – which also happens to be Brian Epstein’s birthday.

The event will feature local acts and celebrities celebrating the theatre’s return.

To prepare for this next chapter, £1 million is being invested in extensive refurbishment works. The upgrades include new lighting, stage cloths, and sound systems, as well as improvements to backstage areas. The theatre’s bar will also be remodelled as part of the project.

Epstein Theatre - Credit David Munn — Epstein Theatre – Credit David Munn

Originally opened in 1913 as the Crane Music Hall, the venue became the Crane Theatre in 1938 before being taken over by Liverpool Corporation in 1967. It was then renamed the Neptune Theatre and became a favourite spot for amateur dramatics, touring performers, and comedians.

After a closure in 2005, the venue underwent a £1.2 million refurbishment and reopened in 2011 as the Epstein Theatre, honouring legendary Beatles manager Brian Epstein.

The theatre was operated by Epstein Entertainments Ltd for two years before its closure in 2023.

The Epstein Theatre’s reopening has been made possible by a transfer of the head lease from the former leaseholders to JSM Company Group Ltd, which now manages Hanover House, the building that contains the Epstein.

JSM has leased the theatre to Theatrical Times Ltd, a new partnership between investors Joseph Roe and Anthony M. Sheedy.

Joseph Roe has extensive experience in building development.
Anthony M. Sheedy previously operated Limerick’s Theatre Royal and has a background in production and stage management.

Bringing experience and local knowledge to the executive team, Anthony Proctor returns as General Manager and Theatre Director. Proctor, who previously managed the Epstein in 2022-23, has worked with major Liverpool venues including the Liverpool Empire, Unity Theatre, and St Helens Theatre Royal.

Joining him is Food and Beverage Consultant Maureen Bramwell, who has successfully run several Liverpool hospitality venues, including Smokey Mo’s group.

The Epstein Theatre is encouraging fans to join its mailing list HERE to stay updated on upcoming shows and events.

For programming enquiries, contact: programming@epstein.com.

Anthony Proctor, Epstein Theatre General Manager, said:

“I’m absolutely thrilled, and really excited, to return to the Epstein and to bring this historic theatre back to life two years after it closed its doors.

“I know the Epstein holds a very special place in the heart of Liverpool audiences as well as generations of artists who have performed in its stunning auditorium, and I can’t wait to reveal the first new season and officially launch it with an amazing gala evening, aptly being held on what would have been Brian Epstein’s birthday.

“The venue has always been a home for great entertainment, and I can guarantee that will continue under Theatrical Times Ltd. I’m looking forward to welcoming audiences back through the doors this summer.”

Anthony Proctor Theatre Image - Credit David Munn — Anthony Proctor Theatre Image – Credit David Munn

Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, said:

“This is hugely exciting news for the City and our much-loved cultural sector.

“Anthony is the perfect person to breathe new life into this gem – his passion, ambition and vision signifies a new chapter for the theatre, and I look forward to seeing its renaissance and working with the team to help promote this cultural asset.

“Here’s to a bright future filled with incredible performances and unforgettable moments at this iconic venue.”

Joshua McTaggart, CEO of Theatres Trust, added:

“Theatres Trust warmly welcomes the news that the Epstein Theatre is set to reopen. Following its closure in 2023, we added the Grade II listed venue to our Theatres at Risk Register and have been working since then to help find a way forward for this unique and beloved venue.

“We continue to work with Theatrical Times Ltd to ensure a bright and stable future for this glorious venue on its return to entertaining the people of Liverpool.”