Sheffield Theatres Sets Naming Rights For Lyceum Theatre

As the refurbishment of the Lyceum Theatre nears completion, Sheffield Theatres has announced new naming rights partners whose support has helped to complete the project fundraising.

A five year partnership with Neil MacDonald and Graham Royle, local businessmen and passionate supporters of the theatre, will see the Hepworth Room renamed to become the MacDonald Room, whilst the Stalls Bar will become the GRI Bar and the Circle Bar will be renamed the Royle Bar. In a further agreement, current corporate partner, The University of Sheffield, has signed a three year deal to sponsor the theatre's safety curtain. This will see the university's logo displayed below the much-loved painted design, which remains unchanged.

The Lyceum, which re-opened on 9 October with Tim Firth's award-winning musical This Is My Family, has undergone an extensive £1.9 million refurbishment over the past 12 weeks. The many improvements include a new cooling system and state-of-the-art sound system in the auditorium, more bathroom and cloakroom facilities and the building has become more energy efficient, with LED house lighting and solar panels on the roof.

To make this project possible, Sheffield Theatres secured funding from Arts Council England and Sheffield City Council. The remaining funds have been raised through public donations, trusts, foundations and local business support through the creation of the Lyceum Business Club.

Neil MacDonald is a long standing supporter of Sheffield Theatres. In addition to his business interests, he holds the position of Deputy Chair of Sheffield Theatres Trust and has worked extensively on the Lyceum refurbishment in his role as Chair of the Lyceum Refurbishment Steering Group.

He commented: 'It gives me enormous pride to have been closely involved with this project. The Lyceum is a hugely important part of the cultural life of our city and I sincerely believe that by investing in it now, future generations of theatre-goers will be able to enjoy the majesty and grandeur of this wonderful theatre.'

Entrepreneur Graham Royle is Chairman and Chief Executive of Sheffield based GRI Group and earlier this year became a Trustee of Sheffield Theatres' Board.

Dan Bates, Chief Executive of Sheffield Theatres also added: 'I am overwhelmed by the amount of local support we have received during this project. The passion and enthusiasm from everyone has been inspiring. We are incredibly fortunate to have individual supporters like Neil and Graham, along with corporate partners, who have committed to a long-term business relationship and are proud to be associated with Sheffield Theatres. I look forward to raising a glass with them on opening night to celebrate our partnership.'