Historic theatre reopens after major restoration

A former theatre with a long history is set to reopen as a music venue following a restoration.

The Empire was built in 1913 to host variety shows in Rotherham town centre, and went on to have many uses, including as a cinema, nightclub and lounge bar.

It closed in 2024, and new owner Mark McGrail, who previously restored the nearby George Wright Hotel, took on a "gamble" by starting a redevelopment project.

He said: "Some people might think Rotherham has problems and question whether it is worth investing here, but you've got to see the gem inside."

He added that the restoration work had been challenging.

"When you walked into the building you saw the opportunity of it. Behind every facade there was a problem, but look past that problem and there was something quite unique to it."

He said he hoped that the venue's rebirth would stop the flow of people heading to Sheffield for night-time entertainment.

The building occupies a corner plot and is known for its Italian Renaissance architecture. It has a foyer block that is largely separate from the auditorium.

There have been several alterations over the years, including in 1921 and in 1974, when the circle and balcony were closed off so the stalls could be converted into a cinema screen.

Builders uncovered many of the original features during the work, including a mosaic marble floor.

Mr McGrail, originally from Pitsmoor in Sheffield, said his own "humble beginnings" provided the motivation needed in his work.

"My mum and dad didn't have jobs. We were on benefits and brought up quite hard.

"It breaks my heart to see communities broken and we see a lot of that at the moment, so when we build something it's not an ego trip, it's about making our communities better."

The opening night will feature a Northern Soul event and music nights have been planned into 2026.

"It's a celebration of a building coming back into life, it's a celebration of Rotherham shaking off all the dust."

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