“There were very few records of the original building nor the extensive ad hoc repair and restoration works carried out during its previous 125-year lifespan,” said Peter. It’s not surprising that this unique restoration project threw up some difficult challenges. Fitted out with rich finishes, it houses the stunning glazed helical staircase, enhanced bar and hospitality facilities and the installation of new interpretative spaces telling the story of the Grand Opera House.”

One was the extensive restoration of the 1895-listed auditorium building – which is one of the best surviving examples of the oriental theatre style design of the most prolific auditorium architect of the time, Frank Matcham – combined with the installation of state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems and new seating to meet modern-day theatregoer expectations.Īlongside this was the re-imagination of the 2006 extension to make it more accessible for all and sympathetic to the historic auditorium building. It was a tale of two buildings, as Peter Maguire Commercial Manager explained, “The focus of the work was split into two distinct areas. The Grand Opera House is certainly a significant place to see in Belfast and group tours can be booked through the Box Office on +44 28 9024 1919 (minimum numbers apply).Delivering the £12.2 million Grand Opera House restoration and re-imagination project was a very fulfilling experience for Tracey Brothers as they secure the future for one of Belfast’s most-loved buildings. It became a repertory theatre during World War II and at the celebrations to mark the end of the war, Eisenhower, Montgomery and Alanbrooke attended gala performances at the theatre Variety programmes dominated in the 1920s and 1930s and the theatre saw performances by Gracie Fields, Will Fyffe and Harry Lauder.

It was renamed the Palace of Varieties in 1904, although it reverted to its original name in 1909. Looked on by many as the premier theatre in Northern Ireland, it boasts a wide array of popular shows and additional facilities and services such as a restaurant, café bar and venue hire for corporate hospitality, functions & events.Īccording to the Theatres Trust the “magnificent auditorium is probably the best surviving example in the United Kingdom of the oriental style applied to theatre architecture”. Since opening its doors on 23 December 1895, the Grand Opera House has delivered an unrivalled programme of entertainment, playing host to some of the greatest names in theatre and music.

The grand opera house