The Empire Theatre is the Largest 2 tier theatre in the country and one of the widest theatres in Europe, playing host to touring productions, musicals and concerts.
In October 1866 a new theatre, named The Prince of Wales Theatre and Opera House opened in Liverpool, on Lime Street. About three quarters the size of the theatre that stands today, it was lit by gas light and all the stage machinery was controlled by steam power. Since then, the theatre has been through many changes, including Name changes, Ownership changes and most notably: architectural changes. The most recent of these being in 1998 when the theatre took in a street to increase the size of the stage to accommodate the bigger, modern productions of such musicals as Miss Saigon and Jesus Christ Superstar. During these renovations, a new box office, licensed bars and conference facilities were installed. The auditorium was also modernised and increase to seat 2381 people.
Since then, the Empire has gone from strength to strength; showcasing the best in local, national and international talent and the theatre can truly call itself the North West’s premier live entertainment venue. . This is due to peak in our capital of culture year, and carry on well into the 21st Century.
The Theatre is operated by Live Nation, the biggest entertainment company in the world.