Construction has been approved for the Sir Ken Dodd Happiness Centre, a new £15 million development in Liverpool.
Slated for completion by 2027, the centre aims to honour the legacy of the beloved comedian Sir Ken Dodd and serve as a hub for comedy and wellbeing initiatives.
Plans for the Sir Ken Dodd Happiness Centre
Plans have been approved for the Sir Ken Dodd Happiness Centre, located adjacent to Liverpool’s Royal Court Theatre. This centre is intended to celebrate the life and career of Sir Ken Dodd, one of Liverpool’s most renowned comedians. The development promises to be a permanent home for Sir Ken’s archive, deeply embedded in the city’s comedy heritage.
Design and Construction
The four-storey building, designed by Stirling Prize-winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM), will feature a multicoloured façade and sustainable design. Construction is expected to begin in 2025, with the centre opening in 2027 to coincide with what would have been Sir Ken’s 100th birthday.
Features and Facilities
Once completed, the centre will house a Happiness exhibition and provide space for comedy-based workshops, talks, and performances. A new 100-seat restaurant will also be part of the facilities. The centre is set to become a hub for education and entertainment, reflecting the unique wit and humour of Liverpool.
Funding and Support
Funding for the £15m project comes from various sources, primarily the Sir Ken Dodd Charitable Trust. The centre will be managed by the Royal Court Theatre, incorporating new dressing rooms and office spaces to accommodate more ambitious productions. Lady Anne Dodd, Sir Ken’s partner, has been actively involved in the planning stages.
Community and Cultural Impact
The centre aims to celebrate all forms of comedy and humour, offering programmes and sessions focused on comedy, humour, health, and wellbeing. The goal is to make these activities accessible to everyone, fostering a sense of community and enhancing wellbeing through laughter.
Quotes from Key Figures
Lady Anne Dodd expressed her enthusiasm, stating, ‘Ken would be delighted at its location, just a stone’s throw from his favourite building in the city, St George’s Hall.’ She emphasised the importance of celebrating Ken’s life and bringing joy to the community. Paul Monaghan of AHMM noted the honour of working on a project that preserves Sir Ken’s legacy while providing educational spaces for Liverpool’s youth.
Upcoming Events
Two significant events are set to celebrate Sir Ken Dodd this autumn at Liverpool’s Royal Court Theatre. ‘Variety Film Club – THE REAL KEN DODD – The Man I Loved’ is scheduled for October 24, followed by the ‘Annual Happiness Show’ on October 27.
The Sir Ken Dodd Happiness Centre is poised to become a landmark in Liverpool, celebrating the city’s rich tradition of humour and comedy. With its range of programmes and facilities, it will offer a space where everyone can experience the joy and benefits of laughter.