Theatre reopens after radical revamp

The oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world is opening its doors for the first time following a multi-million-pound transformation.

The Bristol Old Vic, which was built in 1766, has undergone a radical renovation which aims to place the exquisite Georgian theatre at the heart of Bristol’s public and cultural life.

Stirling Prize-winning architects Haworth Tompkins have led the redesign, which includes a full-height timber and glass-fronted foyer that reveals the original auditorium facade to the street for the first time.

There are also huge

“A welcoming space where everyone can feel at home”

sun-shading shutters, incorporating the text of Garrick’s inaugural 1766 address and a poem by former Bristol city poet Miles Chamber, which highlight the theatre’s long history.

The internal layout has been transformed, with the restoration of the Georgian Coopers’ Hall, a new studio theatre created in the old barrel vaults and mezzanine galleries.

The project is the second stage of a 10-year £26 million programme to completely overhaul and safeguard the future of the theatre.

Theatre artistic director Tom Morris said: “With this transformation, we are returning the theatre to its origins as a place for all and a new welcoming space where everyone can feel at home.

“The theatre will play a new role in bringing communities together, offering people a place to come together and socialise, as well as providing visitors with the chance to delve into its fascinating history through our new unique heritage experience.”