The Grand Opera House had been restored to its former glory at a cost of £3 million, and the opening night’s celebrity show signalled the start of a bumper first season.
South Down MP Enoch Powell who attended the opening night of the Grand Opera House in September described the night as “a great occasion – an act of defiance or perhaps I would rather say an act of triumph”.
Other political dignitaries on the night included MP Gerry Fitt and Euro MP John Taylor.
See who you might see from days gone by.
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1.
Mr John McBride, who appeared on stage in the Grand Opera House in 1930s, with his wife Pat at the re-opening of the theatre in September 1980. The News Letter reported that the theatre opened “in a blaze of glory” after eight years in the dark. Secretary of State, Humphrey Atkins and his wife occupied what used to be the Royal Box, along with the chairman of the Arts Council, Dr Stanley Worrall. Picture: News Letter archives
2.
The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Alderman John Carson, and his wife arrive for the re-opening of the Grand Opera House in September 1980. Picture: News Letter archives
3.
Pictured attending the re-opening of the Grand Opera House in September 1980 is ex Belfast North MP Stratton Mills and his wife Meeriel. He was the first MP for the Alliance Party of Northern Ireland to sit in the House of Commons. Picture: News Letter archives
4.
Ulster actor, Joe Tomelty, arrives for the re-opening of the Grand Opera House in September 1980, with his wife and daughter. Picture: News Letter archives