Member Article

Irwin Mitchell advises on £1 million Sheffield Theatre refurbishment

The real estate and construction team at Irwin Mitchell’s Sheffield office have announced that they advised on the over £1 million refurbishment of The Lyceum theatre by Sheffield Theatres, which is imminent re-opening.

Set to re-open on October 9, The Lyceum’s renovation work has been funded by Arts Council England, Sheffield City Council, funding from trusts and foundations and the support of local businesses and individuals, and is based around improving audience comfort, technical capacity of the venue and environmental sustainability.

The changes include the installation of air conditioning in the auditorium, refurbished balcony seating, an upgraded sound system and a new building management system offering improved control of heating and lighting.

Lawyers from Irwin Mitchell’s specialist Real Estate and Construction teams have played a crucial role in ensuring the work could happen.

Julie Morrissy, a partner at the national law firm’s Sheffield office, provided support to Sheffield Theatres on the funding arrangements and the construction aspects of the work, while real estate specialist Graham Walker advised on the property elements of the deal.

Julie said: “We are absolutely delighted to have provided support to Sheffield Theatres regarding this important work which will ensure that a city institution boasts key facilities which will not only attract high-quality productions but also encourage more visitors to the venue.

“The investment by Arts Council England in particular highlights how Sheffield’s reputation for arts and culture is as strong as ever, with that reputation providing vital support to the profile and economy of the city.”

Dan Bates, chief executive of Sheffield Theatres, added: “Irwin Mitchell has provided invaluable advice and support throughout the refurbishment. It’s been great working with specialists at Irwin Mitchell who are passionate about our work, our business and the importance of the project.

“The refurbishment is nearing completion now and I am looking forward to welcoming audiences back to the freshly transformed theatre in October when we present This Is My Family – our own production of a new musical comedy.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .