New concept images have been released to show how The Crucible could look after its £45m redevelopment.
Plans are in place to increase the capacity of Sheffield’s iconic venue by 50%, to a 1,500 theatre in the round.
The images today have been created by architect Allies and Morrison and give a hint as to how the “heritage-conscious and sympathetic redevelopment” could be tackled. The Crucible is Grade II listed.
They show a proposed change to the entrance and balcony overlooking Tudor Square, plus an upgraded foyer space and new kitchen and cafe.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Theatres and World Snooker in forging the future of the iconic Crucible Theatre,” explained Oliver Heywood, Director at Allies and Morrison.
“The Crucible has been tightly woven into the cultural fabric of the city for over fifty years, and this project will ensure it continues to thrive as a world-class producing theatre and the home of the World Snooker Championship.
“Our work focuses on three areas: introducing the ability to temporarily expand the capacity of the auditorium for snooker and in-the-round theatre productions, the expansion of the public and support areas to accommodate the increased occupancy, and improvements to the exterior of the building to better engage with and enliven the adjacent public realm.
“We have been inspired throughout by the spirit of the original building – a beacon of culture and community. These proposals will restore and celebrate this character while equipping it for the future.”
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The images were shown for the first time during Sheffield City Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee, which approved the next stage of design work and the preparation of a full business case for the project.
Any final designs are subject to both listed building consent and planning permission approval.
“The Crucible has played a central role in Sheffield’s cultural identity for more than 50 years and I am delighted that we are moving forward with this project to ensure that this remains the case for the foreseeable future,” said Councillor Fran Belbin, Leader of Sheffield City Council.
“These new images bring the vision for its future to life showing how we can preserve both its unique atmosphere and its legacy while creating a modern, sustainable venue fit for generations to come.
“This investment represents a huge vote of confidence in Sheffield’s cultural offer and city centre, and we’re taking an important step towards securing the long-term future of this world-renowned venue and the economic, social and cultural benefits it brings to our city.”
Chief Executive of Sheffield Theatres Tom Bird said:
“The Crucible is one of the finest and most iconic theatres in the country. We have enjoyed working alongside Allies and Morrison, Charcoal Blue, ARUP and our partners at Sheffield City Council on this feasibility study, imagining the Crucible of the future.
“I am confident and excited that the works to come will result in a hugely enhanced building, both inside and outside the auditorium, and we look forward with keen anticipation to the next phase of the design process.”
