New Lyric Hammersmith On Schedule to Open in Spring

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Theatre set "to change the landscape and lives of thousands of people"

The new Lyric Hammersmith is on schedule to be unveiled in spring, with scaffolding removed and permission granted by H & F Council for a new sign, shown in this drawing, looking east over Lyric Square.

More than £16million has been spent on the project, which includes the creation of the new Reuben Foundation wing, a two-storey extension allowing the theatre to expand its work with young people and provide more community facilities.

Speaking about the Lyric's first major facelift in 30 years, chief executive Jessica Hepburn says: " This is a thrilling moment for us. We’re nearly ready to unveil our new building to the world and we’re inviting the most enthusiastic, creative and talented young people to be a part of a grand opening event – greater than Hammersmith has ever seen."

Funding for the expansion scheme, turning the Lyric into a "teaching theatre for the arts" has come from the Arts Council, government sources and Hammersmith & Fulham Council as well as many donations from the public, with less than £500,000 still to be raised. Around 7,000 students are expected to use the new facilities every year.

Constructed next to the existing theatre, the development, designed by Rick Mather Architects, doubles the Lyric’s existing space and includes a 60-seat preview cinema for film-making students, a dance studio with a sprung floor, an artists’ greenroom and sound-proof rehearsal and practice rooms.

" We’re committed to the work we do with children and young people," says Jessica. "This is a special place where they feel welcome and inspired, becoming motivated, confident, giving and skilled individuals.

" Together we’re about to change the landscape of Hammersmith, and the lives of thousands of people."

September 5, 2014