Sheffield Theatres

This pictures both of Sheffield's theatres - the Crucible (left) and the Lyceum.
We were in the latter tonight for a superb performance of "Priscilla Queen of the Desert".
The Lyceum is a beautiful theatre, originally built in 1897 following a traditional proscenium arch design. It is the only surviving theatre outside of London designed by the famous theatre architect W G R Sprague, and the last example of an Edwardian auditorium in Sheffield. It was built on the site of the former City Theatre with a grand auditorium built on three levels; stalls, circle and balcony. The statue on top of the building is Mercury, son of Zeus and Maia.
Despite being one of Sheffield’s major theatres, in 1968 the Lyceum was converted into a bingo hall.
It closed a year later and, despite being granted Grade II listed status in 1972, planning permission was sought for its demolition in 1975!
The building was saved in part due to campaigning by the Hallamshire Historic Buildings Society, and in 1990 finally reopened after a restoration costing £12 million.
We had a really enjoyable evening and would highly recommend the show. Do see it if you can!