Opera North unveils redevelopment plans to create ‘world-class’ centre in Leeds

Opera North, the Leeds-based opera company, is seeking planning permission for a new redevelopment project which will create a ‘world-class’ centre for the arts in the city.

The plans, which have received the support of Leeds City Council’s Executive Board, will create improved facilities for audiences and artists, as well as a new Education Centre to house Opera North’s programme of arts activities for children, young people and families.

The Howard Assembly Room, which is programmed and managed by Opera North and currently accessed via Leeds Grand Theatre, will have its own dedicated entrance and box office, along with a new restaurant and bar to replace a row of vacant shop units directly beneath the venue on New Briggate.

A new atrium space will link the restaurant and bar space with stairs and lift access directly to the Howard Assembly Room, as well as improved front of house facilities for audiences at the venue.

The plans also look to further develop Opera North’s estate on Harrison Street, between New Briggate and Vicar Lane, to create a world-class artistic hub, connecting the Company’s primary rehearsal spaces, administrative offices and costume department with new music practice rooms and a chorus and orchestra rehearsal room.

A new fit-for-purpose Education Centre will house Opera North’s education work, including studio rehearsal spaces and teaching facilities for Youth Ensembles, activity spaces for Early Years and Family groups, Schools’ workshops, and singing groups and courses for adults.

Opera North permanently employs over 250 people including electricians, stage technicians, props makers, sound and lighting technicians, costume-makers, stage managers, educators, administrators, designers, filmmakers and, of course, musicians, in addition to freelance performers, creatives and artists.