Pictured at the official opening of the newly refurbished Playhouse Theatre are:

(L-R): John Byrne, In Your Space Theatre Company, Arts Minister, Nelson McCausland, Niall McCaughan, General Manager of The Playhouse and Rosemary Kelly OBE, Chair, Arts Council.

The above image is included courtesy of Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

On Friday 27th November 2009, the award winning Playhouse Theatre celebrated its official re-opening after an extensive £4.6m capital renovation project.

Speaking at the opening, Rosemary Kelly OBE, Chair of the Arts Council, said:

"At the Arts Council we are proud to be one of the principal funders of this historically important arts centre. It is a versatile venue that will have touched just about everyone in the North West, regardless of age or background."

"The restored Playhouse will contribute to a whole new lease of life for the North West augmented, as it is, by marvellous new facilities. I have no doubt it will build on its unique heritage in helping to keep the arts at the heart of Northern Ireland's social and economic regeneration."

The redevelopment of The Playhouse was designed by Blonski Architects. The buildings are now one of the best examples in Northern Ireland of how listed buildings can be restored sympathetically, and fused with very modern design to showcase the best of 19th, 20th and 21st century architecture.

Download article from Perspective Magazine.

Download article from Theatres Magazine.

Download article about The Playhouse's prestigious BURA (British Urban Regeneration Association) Award for "Best Practice in Regeneration".

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