The Ulster Hall: Its Restoration

Following a major refurbishment and extensions, which has lasted almost two years, Belfast's oldest concert hall is finally re-opening this evening.

Completed in 1862, the newly refreshed Ulster Hall is classical in style. Interestingly, the original coat-of-arms on top of the façade may have been that of the Hall's patrons, the Mulholland family, Barons Dunleath. Indeed, the 4th Baron, who sadly died in 1993, was a passionate supporter of the Hall and occasionally played the grand organ there. I have fond memories of Henry Dunleath.

The Ulster Hall, at 30, Bedford Street, was sold to Belfast City Council in 1902 and, in 1959, a new shield depicting the Red Hand of Ulster replaced the Mulholland arms. This shield is displayed at the very top of the building.

In 1862 this splendid building was one of the biggest concert halls in the British Isles, with a capacity of 2,000.

The mighty Mulholland pipe organ still dominates the auditorium; though, sadly, the Group Theatre within the building has now closed down and the space has reverted to its intended purpose as a function room.

The Hall is now the headquarters of the Ulster Orchestra. I'm intending to visit the Ulster Hall on the 15th March, a public open day.