by J. Edward Vickers MBE

Sheffield's Lyceum Theatre was opened in 1897, a large theatre designed by the famous architect W.G.R. Sprague. Though the exterior was not of great importance, the interior was very fine and of importance as the last existing Edwardian auditorium in Sheffield.

At the beginning of 1972 it became obvious that unless something was done to preserve it, the Lyceum was doomed. In November of the same year, the Hallamshire Historic Buildings Society got the building listed as a historic theatre of great interest. This meant that before the building could be altered or demolished a public enquiry would have to be held.

This led to many attacks by the City Council against the Hallamshire Historic Buildings Society and demands that the theatre should be pulled down. In agreement with the Council was the Managing Director of Sheffield Lyceum Theatres Ltd. He stated that never again would live entertainment be seen on the stage of the theatre!

In March 1975 the Hallamshire Historic Buildings Society was informed that planning permission had been asked to demolish the theatre and that a public enquiry would be held in April 1975. In July 1975 the Secretary of State dismissed the appeal and refused to allow the Lyceum to be demolished.

Over the next few years the theatre changed hands five times until the interior began to fall
to pieces. Meanwhile a trust had been formed
in 1985 and agreement was made with the
City Council to buy the Lyceum. Then came refurbishment and redevelopment.

The building was re-classified from Grade 2
to Grade 2* (Grade 2 star) and it became a building of outstanding national importance. Thanks to the Hallamshire Historic Buildings Society, Sheffield now has a wonderful theatre of which it is very proud!

Photographs of the Lyceum Theatre reproduced with kind permission of J.Edward Vickers MBE