Our History

Over 100 years of Liverpool stories

The Epstein Theatre has lived many lives. Concert hall. Community theatre. Maritime-inspired playhouse. Through it all, it’s been a cherished home for comedians, musicians, families, fans, and the brilliantly unexpected.

What’s never changed is its spirit: a place built for people, filled with personality, and shaped by the city around it.

Here’s how it all began…

The Cranes Era (1911–1938)

1911: A new hall for a new city
Our story starts in 1911, when a new concert hall – Crane Hall – was built as part of a development for the Crane Brothers.

1913: Music at the heart of it all
By 1913, the hall was incorporated into a five story building and sat beneath the Crane Brother’s music shop, reached by the long spiral staircase still in use today.

What began as a home for recitals soon expanded: the Cranes purchased the building next door to add a fly tower and stage, transforming the hall into a 451-seat theatre.

Amateur dramatics thrived, with occasional professional productions adding to the bustle.

1916: Crane Hall officially launched
The Grade II listed building was formally launched on 3rd February, cementing its place in Liverpool’s growing cultural scene.

Becoming the Crane Theatre (1938–1967)

1938: A new name for a familiar stage
Crane Hall became the Crane Theatre – a space known for local performers, grassroots creativity and its unmistakable charm.

The Neptune Years (1967–2005)

1967: Saved for the city
The theatre faced closure until Liverpool Corporation stepped in and purchased the building, securing its future for local people.

1967: A summer of renewal
A £7,000 refurbishment brought new life to the space:

  • A rebuilt apron stage
  • Fresh entrances and exits
  • A reorganised bar used as an art gallery and buffet
  • Installation of the lift still used today
September 1968: Reborn as the Neptune Theatre
The venue reopened as the Neptune Theatre, named in honour of Liverpool’s maritime roots. Its first production in the new era was An Enemy of the People.
 
1969: Modernising backstage
Further improvements followed, including new wiring, backstage refurbishment and mechanical lifting gear for the safety curtain.
 
2005: Closure and uncertainty
Due to health and safety concerns, and legal complications surrounding further refurbishment, the Neptune closed its doors. It would remain dark for five years.

The Epstein Era Begins (2011–2023)

2010–2011: A major transformation
A £1 million refurbishment began in 2010, preparing the theatre for a new chapter.
 
In 2011, it reopened as The Epstein Theatre, renamed in honour of Brian Epstein, the Liverpool icon and Beatles manager
 
April 2011: A fitting first performance
The first broadcast from the newly reopened venue was BBC Radio 5 Live’s Grand National coverage, kicking off a vibrant programme of comedy, burlesque, drama, concerts, pantomime and more.
 
2016: A century of live entertainment
The theatre celebrated its 100-year anniversary and secured Heritage Lottery funding to explore and preserve its rich history.
 
June 2023: The curtain falls once again
The Epstein closed after the city council withdrew financial support, citing the building’s deterioration and financial pressures. 
 
But for a venue with a century of life, it was a pause, not an ending.

The Revival (2025–Today)

April 2025: The lights switch back on
Following extensive refurbishment and a £1 million investment, The Epstein Theatre reopened its doors, restored for the next generation of theatregoers.
 
21st September 2025: A grand return on a fitting date
The official Grand Opening Gala took place on what would have been Brian Epstein’s birthday – a celebration of community, culture and the spirit that’s always defined this building.

A living legacy in Liverpool

From Crane Hall to the Neptune to the modern-day Epstein, this building has seen performers take their first steps on stage, families create lifelong memories, and audiences discover new favourites.
 

It’s woven into the story of Liverpool itself, and after more than 100 years, its best chapters are still ahead.

What’s On Next…

A lot has changed over the last century but great nights out are still what we do best.

See what’s coming up and find your next story at The Epstein.

See What’s On →