The Grade II listed Saville Theatre in London’s West End will undergo a restoration programme under plans by its new owners. The Stage reports that real estate investment firm Yoo Capital have acquired the theatre, which opened in 1931. The exterior of the building features a distinctive sculptured frieze.
The interior foyer features decorative cornices, while the bar and lounge area display large-scale murals. The theatre was once a live performance and music venue, and has hosted the Bee Gees, the Beatles, and Elton John as well as numerous plays and musicals. However it has only been used as a cinema since 1970.
Under new plans, the venue on Shaftesbury Avenue could become the first UK home of the world-famous Cirque du Soleil entertainment group who are known for their acrobatic displays, and it will once again host live performances. There will also be new dining spaces and boutique hotel accommodation, if the planning proposals are approved.
Eric Grilly, president of resident and affiliate show divisions at Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, said: "We are thrilled at the idea of joining forces with Yoo Capital and the Camden community [the borough in which the theatre sits] in rethinking the future of the Saville Theatre.”
He added: "We see a unique opportunity to bring back live entertainment to a beloved venue with fresh content and new ideas."
The Saville Theatre was bought by Brian Epstein in 1960, and thrived as a live music venue, with performances by the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, Pink Floyd, and many other famous acts of the era. Following Epstein’s death in 1967, the theatre reverted to its original purpose of staging plays and musicals. In 1970, it was bought by EMI and converted into a cinema.
The theatre was constructed on three levels and had a standing capacity of over 1,500. The front of the building is dominated by a large arched window frame and a 40 ft long stonework frieze that is titled ‘Drama Through the Ages’. The sculpted artwork was created by Gilbert Bayes and a section was displayed in the Royal Academy Exhibition before being installed.
Lloyd Lee, managing partner at Yoo Capital, said: "The Saville Theatre is part of the historical entertainment fabric of London’s world-famous West End.”
“From its origins as a live performance venue that saw everything from plays, musicals and live concerts by the Bee Gees, Elton John and the Beatles to its closure in 1970 and conversion to a cinema, the Saville remains an iconic venue in the heart of London.”
"Yoo Capital is thrilled to have the opportunity to restore the theatre’s original purpose as a live performance space in partnership with the world’s most reputable live performers, Cirque du Soleil, who have chosen to explore the potential for the Saville to be their first ever permanent experience in London."
The plans for an upgrade of the historic theatre are currently undergoing a public consultation and will be submitted for consideration later this year.
