Lyric Theatre

The Lyric Cinema was empty and desolate during the period 1980-86 when it was suggested that it should be redeveloped. Incredibly a refurbishment then took place which made the building the (then) fourth largest theatre in Wales.

The Lyric has but a narrow passage way between two shops as its contribution to the street scene, but behind this inauspicious opening lies a good example of Art Deco which has been largely retained in the transformation.

After initial attempts to purchase the theatre the Welsh Office and Welsh Development Board made £750,000 available to build a new fly tower with 21 single purchase and 11 double purchase counterweight sets; an orchestra pit for 64 players, with hydraulic lift; a backstage extension for wardrobe and dressing rooms. Within the auditorium the existing circle was considered to be too high so a smaller dress circle, with 80 seats, was built in front of the film projection box, the old circle becoming the upper circle, creating a more intimate space.

A fine end product of the effectiveness of a community activity with enormous enthusiasm, commitment and vision.