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Rotherham's Historic Empire Theatre Reopens as Music Venue
16 Nov
Summary
- The Empire theatre in Rotherham, built in 1913, is set to reopen as a music venue.
- The theatre has had many uses over the years, including as a cinema and nightclub.
- New owner Mark McGrail is redeveloping the venue, despite some doubts about investing in Rotherham.
In a move that promises to breathe new life into Rotherham's cultural landscape, the historic Empire theatre is set to reopen as a music venue after undergoing a comprehensive restoration project. The Empire, which was originally constructed in 1913 to host variety shows, has had a storied past, serving as a cinema, nightclub, and lounge bar over the decades.
The theatre closed its doors in 2024, but new owner Mark McGrail, who had previously taken on the restoration of the nearby George Wright Hotel, saw the potential in the property and decided to take a "gamble" by embarking on a redevelopment initiative. Despite some skepticism about the viability of investing in Rotherham, McGrail remains optimistic, stating, "Some people might think Rotherham has problems and question whether it is worth investing here, but you've got to see the gem inside."
As the Empire prepares to welcome a new era of music and entertainment, the community eagerly awaits the revival of this iconic landmark, which has been a fixture in Rotherham's town center for over a century. The restoration project promises to breathe new life into the venue, offering a unique and exciting destination for both local residents and visitors alike.
