A Liverpool city centre theatre could be revived despite last year’s closure.
The Epstein Theatre had been part of the city’s performing arts scene since 1913 but was forced to close its doors last June after losing its sub-lease on the property.
Liverpool City Council had supported the theatre’s continued operation through its freehold of the Hanover Street building which was ended due to financial pressures.
But local theatre goers have been given renewed hope the Epstein may be brought back into operation after it was placed on the Theatre Trust’s ‘at-risk’ register.
The Trust, which highlights UK theatres facing threat of closure, redevelopment or severe decay, will seek to engage with all stakeholders over the Grade II-listed arena.
Cllr Harry Doyle, the council’s cabinet member for culture, believes that the move represents a positive step in the bid to regenerate the Epstein’s business operations.
He said: “We welcome the move to add The Epstein to the risk register as this offers renewed hope for this extraordinary space.
“In their role as intermediary, the Theatres Trust can now ensure there are productive conversations between the commercial landlord and any potential operators, with the shared ambition to find a positive solution which would see this important cultural asset reopening its doors.”