Construction is about to begin on a brand new theatre beneath Manchester Central, after work was halted to make way for the Nightingale Hospital.
53two's new venue will take shape in the Grade II-listed railway arches in the city centre, with Manchester Gin's distillery and bar as their neighbours.
Construction of the theatre was supposed to begin in March 2020, but the space had to be used as storage while Manchester Central became a field hospital.
Once completed, this will be a fully accessible 150-seat theatre, arts bar and venue.
The charity has signed a 15-year lease on the site, with plans to open the bar as soon as spring 2021.
Planning permission for the exciting independent theatre was granted in late 2019, and founder says he's 'delighted' to finally get work underway.
Artistic director Simon Naylor says: "It’s been devastating to watch theatres across the country struggling to survive over what is surely the hardest six months they’ve ever experienced.
"Thankfully our doors weren’t open and we were able to use this time to gather support from charities like Backstage Trust, LCVS to ensure we were in the best possible position to open a new venues when the time was right.
"We’ve continued to work with Manchester Central and the city throughout this and we’re delighted to finally announce we’ll be getting started on site in the New Year."
Although the bar will open early next year, the theatre itself will remain closed until it is safe to welcome full audiences again.
It will help to launch new production companies, champion new writers and produce world premieres.
Alexandra Maxwell, venue producer at 53two, says: "We can’t wait to get making theatre again and hear the bustle of a busy arts venue, knowing that it is truly accessible for any audience member.
"Our ‘theatre bar’ will help the city build back some confidence, and we’ll only open the larger theatre space when we can safely welcome full houses again.
"We’re chomping at the bit with an incredible programme already lined up."
Councillor Marcus Johns said: "I am hugely excited to see 53two’s return to the city centre and announce their upcoming theatre space.
"It’s a massive boost in confidence for our city and our cultural scene.
"I can’t wait to get back in my seat and enjoying home-grown shows.
"Theatre, arts and culture are crucial ingredients to the success of Manchester City Centre and ultimately all of Greater Manchester. Now the sector needs our help and support more than ever."
