CREWE'S Lyceum Theatre has announced it is to reopen in August after 17 months of no shows during the pandemic.

The venue will restart its entertainment schedule on Saturday, August 28 with an Elvis tribute act, The Spirit of ELVIS in Concert, and says shows going forward will be at full capacity.

Earlier this month the theatre, which is owned by the HQ Theatres and Hospitality group, said it was dismayed it had to remain shut while social distancing measures remained in force.

But with Health Secretary Sajid Javid outlining his ambition to fully reopen society on July 19 and the government analysing data from live test events the outlook looks much brighter for the theatre sector, where the commercial viability of productions would be compromised by social distancing.

The Lyceum has been closed since the first lockdown was imposed last March. Most of its staff have been furloughed and shows rescheduled, many into next year.

It received £231,387 of funding from the government's Cultural Recovery Fund to help offset the loss of its income streams.

During its closure refurbishment work has been undertaken, including, it is understood, some repair work after the venue flooded during heavy downpours last summer.

A host of star attractions are scheduled for the return with comedian Jason Manford appearing on August 30, Phil Wang on September 2 and former MP, actor, presenter and author Gyles Brandreth on September 18.

To ensure a Covid-secure environment the Lyceum is implementing measures, which include the issuing of e-tickets, the use of track and trace and hand sanitiser stations, while and face coverings will need to be worn other than when seated in the restaurant.

The Lyceum stated: "After such a long period of uncertainty and change, we remain committed to delivering a full live-entertainment experience that is renewed and improved - and which has your safety, comfort and enjoyment as our number one priority."