Liverpool is blessed with theatrical talent and the grandness of theatres that surely makes other city’s blush with envy, and whilst we have lost some over time, those that remain, and despite the difficulties that many have faced due to the current times we live in, stand proudly with their history on show, the memories of performances, of the smell of grease paint and the actors to have made the stage their own; and when a sizeable anniversary is reached, it should be celebrated with style.

Liverpool’s Central Library is the place to be for fans of social history and the theatre over the next couple of months as artefacts and photographs will present lost gems of the Liverpool Empire Theatre.

Working with the iconic Liverpool theatre, Liverpool Record Office & Archives has dug into their own vaults, those of the Empire Theatre and into the memories and memorabilia of members of the public who answered the call on social media for artefacts.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be asked to help create this special exhibition marking the Liverpool Empire Theatre’s centenary,” says freelance Cultural and Heritage Writer, Catherine Jones. “Working with the supportive and knowledgeable team at Liverpool Record Office to delve into the archives, I discovered so many fantastic stories from over the past 100 years… the main challenge was choosing what to leave out! The theatre is a special place for so many people – I hope everyone who visits the exhibition enjoys it and that it sparks their own trip down memory lane.”

Featuring historical information, photographs from across the last century, memorabilia connecting theatrical and musical legends and much more, the exhibition is open now and runs until Saturday April 26th, 2025.

“It’s been fantastic to work with Liverpool Record Office and Catherine Jones to create this exhibition,” says Empire Theatre Manager, Jeannie Clinton.

“Highlighting the major part the theatre has played in the Liverpool City Region and beyond, entertaining the people of Liverpool over the past 100 years, is so rewarding. While we plan for the future as always, it was so interesting to have this opportunity to look back and learn more about the theatre’s history. We are sure it will evoke memories for all who visit the exhibition over the coming months.”

Make sure to attend this marvel of social and theatrical history at the Liverpool Central Library.