Lichfield theatre invites public to view newly refurbished spaces
Lichfield’s Garrick Theatre raised the curtain on its newly-refurbished facilities following months of facelift work at a special event attended by head of Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth Chambers Charlie Elliott and Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber president Fiona Rouse
The long-established theatre is now inviting the public into the venue to view the renovated areas and facilities. The Garrick has been undergoing refurbishment for several months, whilst operating a reduced programme for their audiences.
With the facelift now complete, the theatre recently held a successful reopening event with community groups, sponsors, partners, trustees, stakeholders and membership holders in attendance.
The closed event was an opportunity for supporters to explore the new spaces, meet the Garrick team and celebrate the theatre’s new chapter.
The refurbishment was made possible through the Garrick’s performance at the box office after the national lockdown for COVID-19 and the primary focus was on enhancing the theatre’s front-of-house areas including box office, bars and toilets, and improving accessibility.
The theatre has thanked the project team including architects Aaron Chetwynd, interior designers Designs Unlimited, access consultants Nimbus, project managers Virtus Consult and experienced contractors Medlock FRB who delivered the project within a matter of weeks.
The new Cafe Bar will be open to the public from Monday to Saturday every week from 10am to 2pm and visitors can pick up a special offer voucher valid until 9th November 2024. The box office has also had a refresh, and now boasts a large service counter and foyer area to welcome audiences.
Daniel Buckroyd, the venue’s Chief Executive & Artistic Director, has invited the public to view the improvements to the theatre. “We’re thrilled to have been able to undertake this major refurbishment of the Garrick - improving comfort and accessibility, adding extra bars and toilet facilities and opening up flexible new spaces for audiences and community activities. If you haven’t visited recently, we’d love you to come in, have a coffee, see a show and discover the warmest welcome in Lichfield.”
Charlie Elliott said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have been part of the reopening of the Lichfield Garrick Theatre!
“Holding the ribbon as it was cut by a beloved theatre figure was a fantastic experience. This moment signifies not just the revival of a cherished venue, but also showcases the vibrant cultural heartbeat of our community.
“As the accredited Chamber of Commerce for Lichfield, we are passionate about championing local initiatives that enrich our arts scene.
“The Garrick is a key player in our town's identity, and we can’t wait to see the continued magic it brings to our community!"
Plan your next trip to the theatre by visiting the Garrick’s website for what’s on and opening times.
Pictured from left to right: Cllr Doug Pullen (leader of Lichfield District Council), Pantomime Dame Sam Rabone, Daniel Buckroyd (chief executive and artistic director), Matthew Clay (director of development)