Georgian theatre reopens after multi-million pound renovation
THE OLDEST continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world is opening its doors for the first time following a multimillion-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 glassfronted foyer that reveals the original auditorium facade to the street for the first time.
There are also huge sun-shading shutters, incorporating the text of Garrick’s inaugural 1766 address and a poem by former Bristol city poet Miles Chambers, which highlight the theatre’s long history.
The internal layout has been completely 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 £26m programme to completely overhaul and safeguard the future of the theatre.
Theatre artistic director Tom Morris said: “We are inviting the amazing people of Bristol to become part of an exciting new era for the theatre. When it was first built in 1766, the theatre was a space where people from every walk of life would congregate to be inspired and entertained.
“Over 250 years, as fashions changed, and the theatre became increasingly hidden from public view, Bristol Old Vic may sometimes have seemed to only belong to the privileged few.
“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.”