The Transformation Project

Opera North, Leeds Grand Theatre and Leeds City Council are working together in close partnership to deliver the hugely ambitious Transformation project.

A New Stage for Opera North
Phase Two of the project begins in autumn 2007 and will see the restoration of the Assembly Room adjacent to Leeds Grand Theatre. The Assembly Room will become a 200-seat flexible performance space, which will nurture young performers, showcase the work of new artists and host special musical events to complement the main stage programme of Opera North.

The new space will also provide a vibrant hub of educational, a rehearsal room for the Orchestra of Opera North and a focal point for social and corporate activities, seminars and talks. Phase Two will also involve the restoration of the theatre’s façade, the Grand Hall, front-of-house foyer, main staircase, Dress Circle bar and artists’ dressing rooms. Building work is expected to be completed in Autumn 2008.

Phase One of the project is now complete, providing two new rehearsal rooms in the Opera Centre, a scenery bridge link between the Opera Centre and Leeds Grand Theatre, a hydraulic lift to raise lorries from street to stage level, a technical upgrade to Leeds Grand Theatre including a steel scenery suspension grid, a new flying system and an enlarged orchestra pit and the refurbishment of the Yorkshire Bank Auditorium with improved sightlines, new seating and an air-cooling system.

Fundraising
Fundraising for Transformation continues to be led by Opera North with the support of  Leeds Grand Theatre. A volunteer fundraising team, comprising influential members of the business, media and other communities across the region, complements a communications strategy designed to raise positive awareness and secure contributions.

Funds continue to be generated from private individuals, the corporate sector, trusts and foundations.

Updated information about Transformation can be found at www.transformationatleeds.co.uk