FOLLOWING A €2.9 million revamp, Waterford’s Theatre Royal reopened officially last night with a performance of Bernard Farrell’s Wallace, Balfe and Mr Bunn.
Over the past 15 months, the Georgian building, built in 1784 to a design by architect John Roberts, underwent its first major restoration since Victorian times and has been restored in the Victorian style. The project was funded by Waterford City Council, which shares the building with the theatre, and the Department of Arts.
Local architect Ken Wigham and London-based Arts Team were responsible for the design.
“This magnificent renovation means that the Theatre Royal can fulfil its role in enriching the lives of the people of Waterford and beyond,” said Arts Council chairwoman Pat Moylan, who opened the theatre in place of Minister for Arts Martin Cullen, who was detained in the Dáil.
Ms Moylan said it was time the significance of arts organisations was recognised in creating jobs and contributing tax to the exchequer.
“Our artists and arts organisations stand ready to play their part in the national recovery through job creation, in boosting Ireland’s international reputation as a hub for creativity, innovation and investment and, of course, cultural tourism,” she said.
The redesigned theatre seats 434. Many of the original features have been restored, while the old Waterford Crystal chandelier has been turned into an uplighter by three former Waterford Crystal craftsmen.
The director of the Theatre Royal is Ben Barnes, formerly of the Abbey Theatre and Waterford’s Red Kettle Theatre Company.