A move to find a new 500-plus seat home for the Library Theatre was endorsed by the City Council’s Executive today, Wednesday 23 July.
The acclaimed theatre, which produces a mixture of contemporary drama and modern classics, is currently constrained by its basement location in the Central Library which a report to Executive described as "wholly inadequate…for a modern theatre fit for a leading European regional city." The current theatre has a seating capacity of around 300.
A number of potential alternative venues within the city which would provide a contemporary,more flexible space are being evaluated before a further report is presented to the City Council.
Councillor Mike Amesbury, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "The Library Theatre has played an important role in Manchester's cultural life for more than half a century and I'd like to reassure people that it will continue to do so. The theatre company are hampered by their current location and we are keen to assist them in their search for a new home which will give them more space to expand both the range of their performances and their valuable community work. This should ensure the theatre goes from strength."
The relocation would release the basement of the Central Library for use by the County Record Office, bringing together a unique collection and service focused on Manchester.
The Library Theatre Company was founded in 1952 and has produced consistently high quality seasons of drama, musical theatre, plays for families and comedies including numerous UK and European premieres. It also has a flourishing education and community programme.
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