The new cultural quarter in Leicester is now home to a stunning entertainment venue as a result of the Curve art theatre project. The modern theatre, designed by world renowned architect Rafael Viñoly, adds a vibrant feel to the area, offering business opportunities and a unique entertainment space for locals and visitors in the East Midlands region, including auditoria, a café and bar.
- 17 January 2010
If other cities follow Leicester's example, the arts will flourish …an exciting and innovative building. I'm sure it will prove inspirational to all those who are lucky enough to work there
The €71 million flagship project is the latest stage in efforts to transform the St George’s area into a cultural hub, and is the most important arts and cultural development in Leicester for decades. In addition to revitalising a run-down district, it has already borne fruit, generating more than €70 million in new development and business.
New design brings audiences closer to the action
The state-of-the-art Curve features two auditoriums, one with 750 fixed seats, the other smaller with 350 seats but providing a versatile, smaller space. The 32-tonne steel walls which separate the stage and foyer can be raised, making the stage visible from the street. Behind the stunning glass façade is a magnificent open plan foyer with views onto the café, bars and backstage area and across the stage. The unique theatre design also enables directors to place the audience in a variety of configurations, adding to the magic and experience for theatregoers.
Setting the scene for strong regional development
Innovation and the arts play a key role in the development of the East Midlands. Curve has become a landmark, symbolising the city’s renaissance and reflecting its position as a centre for the cultural industries in the region. It is attracting investment into the city, helping to bring in visitors, creating new jobs and raising the profile of the arts in the region.
The show will go on
Though lights may be turned off following stage performances, the behind-the-scenes work carries on. The economic, social and cultural value of Curve will be evaluated as part of a long-term study commissioned by East Midlands Development Agency (emda) into the impact of this and other investments in regional arts venues. Based on this, equally inspiring projects can develop and eventually become a reality.