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...commissioned to complete the work, and are to be credited with having produced one of the most palatial, comfortable, elegant and safe theatres that the metropolis can now boast of, comprising in all its details, every modern improvement and device for securing comfort, convenience and safety. The elevation towards the square (but for the exception of a crown placed immediately under the large pediment surmounting the building and the words, "The Empire Theatre" in gold, and a light iron verandah and shelter of tasteful appearance), remains as originally designed by the French architect to the Panorama Company, and is bold and characteristic. The Entrance Hall and Vestibule, with its staircase, are strikingly beautiful; the latter, with its column, pilasters and dado, are of scagliola, relieved with gilt capitals and panels in the renaissance style of architecture, which indeed is that in which the whole of the interior of the building has been designed.

The Grand Tier or Dress Circle is on the same level as the Vestibule. This tier consists of four rows of seats, surrounded by Private Boxes, the rich crimson velvet hangings of which give a warmth and richness to the lower portion of the theatre.

Left - Images of the Empire Theatre from an Empire Programme - 1886 - Click to enlarge

The design of the curve at this level with one row of seats projecting beyond the line of the tier above it, is very much like a horse-shoe, the size of the Auditorium and Proscenium opening being both ample, the line of sight is not interfered with, and from every seat a good and complete view of the stage can be obtained. Behind the Private Boxes there is a corridor 8 feet 6 inches wide, but it is on the Balcony level where the most ample space is allowed for promenade. This indeed is a noble area, with a magnificent Foyer, elevated a few steps above and behind it. This level is approached by the Grand Staircase direct from the Entrance Hall and Vestibule, and will undoubtedly prove a most popular portion of the building. It is estimated that at least 300 people could promenade here with an entirely uninterrupted view of the stage. The Foyer is, as we have said, at the rear, and is approached from this level by another handsome staircase. It is a magnificent apartment, 45 feet by 43 by 30 feet high. Its ceiling is supported by marble columns and pilasters with gilded capitals, and surmounted by marble entablatures, the whole of the room has a dado of the same material, the floor is of tiled mosaic pavement of suitable design. Very excellent stained grass windows with portraits and ideal representations, overlook Leicester Square. The panels and entablatures of ceiling are painted with subjects representing Comedy., Tragedy, &-c. A novel effect to this charming Foyer has been obtained by inserting at each end between...

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