Boris Johnson Visits Hammersmith's Lyric Theatre
London Mayor praises "cultural beacon for West London"
Mayor of London Boris Johnson visited Hammersmith’s Lyric Theatre today to see how its £16 million transformation, into a new style teaching theatre, is progressing.
The Mayor Boris toured the buildings, which have been undergoing a major rebuilding programme since last November, this morning, April 10.
Once completed, the much-loved venue will be unveiled as the country’s first teaching theatre – with rooms set aside for educational sessions between students, actors, directors and teachers.
A new two storey extension, with a range of brand new facilities is under construction, while the existing building is getting its first major facelift for 30 years.
The new facilities will include drama, dance and recording studios, an editing suite, music practice rooms, a digital film and TV studio, a screening room, a sensory room for children with disabilities and new wardrobe, props and scenic workshops.
New meeting and seminar rooms will also be created while the existing building will be furnished with a new bar and café.
Commenting on the redevelopment – which is part funded by the Mayor of London himself plus H&F Council and other contributors – the Mayor said: "The Lyric is a cultural beacon for west London and a shining example of the continuing success our theatres have in attracting audiences and putting themselves at the heart of the community."
As well as major contributions including over £3 million from Hammersmith & Fulham Council. The Lyric's Capital Project has been supported by thousands of individuals who have donated funds to furnish the new building, choosing from a list of items ranging from £5 to buy dressing room lightbulbs to £5,000 to buy a cinema screen motorised curtain.
Together the large and small donors have helped The Lyric raise over £16 million, with just £500,000 left to raise. You can find out more about the project and this and other ways you can offer your support on the Lyric's website.
Cllr Greg Smith, H&F Council Deputy Leader, said around 7,000 pupils are expected to use the new look theatre each year when building work is complete.
He said: " It was great to welcome the Mayor to Hammersmith and once the building works are complete the new look Lyric will help inspire future generations to appreciate and get involved with the arts.
" The Lyric is already far more than a theatre and this major regeneration project is part of the new wave of investment that is continuing to pour into Hammersmith town centre."
Work on the redevelopment is expected to be complet by February 2014.
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