CONSTRUCTION work on the new Everyman began today as the theatre announced a new fundraising appeal.
Architect Steve Tompkins was on site for the Hope Street venue’s groundbreaking, which is due to be reopen in 2013.
The building project has already secured £27m funding – 99% of it from national or European sources.
Liverpool businessman Peter Johnson is the first individual to make a donation to the new Everyone for the Everyman.
The former Everton FC and Tranmere Rovers owner and Birkenhead-based Park Group chair presented the theatre with £200,000 from the Peter Johnson Foundation.
VIDEO: On site at the new Everyman Theatre
Everyman and Playhouse executive director Deborah Aydon said: “The beginning of thebuild is a phenomenally exciting moment. We have raised 98% of the funds needed to complete the building, and are now asking those who love the Everyman – and we know there are a great many who do, very passionately – to play their part in making the new theatre the best it can be.
“The new building will be a wonderful thing, but it is not the end of the story – it’s the beginning of the next chapter. So funds raised through the Everyone for the Everyman appeal will also support the writers, actors, directors and designers of the future, so that the new theatre will be an exciting creative hub for many decades to come.”
Donations large or small can be made as a single or regular gift, and every pound donated up to the first £250,000 will be matched by the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation.
