Library Theatre

Library Theatre

The Lowry is a combined theatre and gallery complex situated in Salford Quays, in Salford, England. Inside is a drama studio, two theatres, the Lyric and the Quays, coloured green, purple and red respectively, which host a wide range of touring plays, comedians and musicians; the Lowry also hosts the Opera North series of operas. The Lyric theatre has the largest stage in the United Kingdom outside London's West End. The theatre has 1650 seats and 2000m² gallery to house 350 paintings by L. S. Lowry.

Designed by Michael Wilford and Buro Happold, (Wayfinding System and "Artworks at the Lowry Gallery" by Reich+Petch Design International) the building was completed in 1999 costing £120 million. Funding was helped by £21m of National Lottery funding. The aerofoil canopy at the entrance is clad with perforated steel and illuminated from the inside at night. It is located close to the Imperial War Museum North and the Old Trafford football stadium. It is served by the Harbour City stop on the Metrolink tram network.

In January 2008, The Lowry was severely criticised in local and national media for paying its' Chief Executive, Julia Fawcett, a £310,000 salary.