The performing arts in Northern Ireland 'scaled new heights' this week as south Belfast's Lyric Theatre reached the highest point in the construction of its new theatre, with the core building structure now complete.

As the last roof beam was put in place major capital donors, sponsors and dignitaries gathered on the roof to celebrate the 'Topping Out'.

Stormont Arts Minister Nelson McCausland praised the progress being made on the construction.

He said: "I welcome this opportunity to see the progress which has been made on the new theatre since my last visit in September and that the Northern Ireland Executive's contribution of over £9m to the project is producing such tangible results.

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"The new theatre is really taking shape and I have no doubt that it will be a landmark building for both Belfast and Northern Ireland when it is completed," he commented, noting that investment in the arts is a "key contributor to physical, social and economic regeneration and, even in the current tough economic climate, it is important to recognise the contribution which arts and culture makes to our society".

The new theatre will include a 390-seat auditorium, a flexible performance studio, rehearsal space and improved front-of-house and backstage facilities.

The Minister continued: "While the building is impressive today, the real test will occur in a few months' time, when the lights dim and the curtain rises on opening night.

"Then, these walls will reverberate with drama, intrigue, excitement and laughter as the new Lyric comes alive," he enthused.

The new Lyric Theatre is being built at a total cost of £18m with the main funders being the Department of Culture & Leisure, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Belfast City Council.

A successful fundraising campaign has been undertaken by the Lyric which has raised over £5m to date towards the project.

(BMcC/GK)