THE Epstein Theatre will return to its roots as a live music venue when it reopens its doors next year.
Liverpool Sound City will take over the running of the former Neptune Theatre, which was originally founded as Crane’s Music Hall.
The Hanover Street venue will be officially relaunched in May to provide a platform for predominantly local bands.
Sound City, which runs an annual music festival in Liverpool as well as international events, beat seven other applicants to the contract.
Chief executive Dave Pichilingi said: “We were absolutely delighted to be told we had won the contract.
“We already bring some big artists into the city, and to the festivals we hold around the world, so it will be great to be able to bring them to this beautiful venue.”
The Epstein will officially relaunch for the fifth annual Liverpool Sound City Festival, from May 17-19, but may also host concerts earlier in 2012.
