One of York’s top entertainment venues is undergoing a major refurbishment.
The Grand Opera House is closed now as the work is underway.
When audiences return, they will find a new-look foyer bar, new flooring, carpets and a new Ambassador Lounge VIP bar.
Both the toilets and the entrance are being made more accessible, and there’ll be new seating in our dress circle.
The Grand Opera House Box Office on King Street is also getting a complete makeover. New signs are being installed both inside and outside the building.
The dressing rooms are being improved and there will be technical improvements, including a new digital order to your seat service.
It marks a new chapter in the theatre’s long history. Created by converting two buildings, including a corn exchange built in 1868, it opened as the Grand Theatre and Opera House on 20 January 1902.
During the current works, a newspaper dating from that month was discovered in the walls.
Theatre manager Allie Long said: “In our 120 year anniversary year I am delighted at the refurbishment of works we have been able to action during our limited dark period over summer.
“Our focus is on delivering exceptional experiences, for both our wonderful audiences and visiting productions through upgrading key areas both back of house and front of house.
“This is the beginning of a fresh new era for the Grand Opera House, as we work to continue enabling the best of the West End to be available in York.
“This is just the start for the venue and the team, and we cannot wait for you to see our beautiful venue when we reopen for our autumn season.”
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Allie joined in March and isn’t the only new member of staff.
The Grand Opera House also has a new head of marketing and communications, Ryan Harper, who previously worked at Scarborough Spa; venue administrator, Grace Gama who has come from Leeds Grand Theatre; marketing assistant Paul Brockbank who has previously had a career in travel.
They are joined by technical manager Joe Strange and customer experience manager, Nic Myers.
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