Liverpool Sound City win contract to operate Epstein Theatre
Source: Liverpool Daily Post
The Epstein Theatre will return to its roots as a live music venue when it reopens its doors next year.
Liverpool Sound City will take over the running of the former Neptune Theatre, which was originally founded as Crane’s Music Hall.
The Hanover Street venue will be officially relaunched in May to provide a platform for predominantly local bands.
Sound City, which runs an annual music festival in Liverpool as well as international events, beat seven other applicants to the contract.
Chief executive Dave Pichilingi said: “We were absolutely delighted to be told we had won the contract.
“We already bring some big artists into the city, and to the festivals we hold around the world, so it will be great to be able to bring them to this beautiful venue.”
The Epstein will officially relaunch for the fifth annual Liverpool Sound City Festival, from May 17-19, but may also host concerts earlier in 2012.
Further programme details will be announced in the New Year. As well as music, the organisation plans to put on exhibitions and theatrical events.
It will also work closely with community groups and develop its ongoing youth music scheme to help young people find their way into the industry. Sound City will hold a 12-year lease as part of a tapered package that will see owner Liverpool City Council covering the first year’s rent and service charge, reducing by 25% annually until the fifth year.
Wendy Simon, Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for culture and tourism, said: “Sound City will provide a different offer to add to what is already an amazing cultural city.”
Closed in 2005 with annual losses of £250,000, the 385-seater theatre has undergone a £1m redevelopment.
It was renamed The Epstein earlier this year in memory of Beatles manager Brian Epstein, who worked in the building while it was home to Crane’s Music Hall
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