A new stage for Shakespeare

• Preserved two Grade II listed facades, 1930s Art Deco foyer areas, and excavated a two-storey basement, combining history and modern craftmanship. 

• The development features a refurbished fly tower, 1,040 seat auditorium, and 36-metre-high viewing tower offering views over Stratford, and upgraded Swan Theatre next door. 

• Countless accolades including being recognised by the British Construction Industry’s Major Project of the Year and the Building Awards Project of the Year.

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre's transformation is a project the Bard himself would be proud of. This £57m renovation, managed by the Royal Shakespeare Company, was a challenging endeavour due to its national and cultural significance. The project, which spanned from December 2006 to July 2010, involved the construction management of a 1,040-seat auditorium over three years. 

Hailed as a landmark project, the six-year renovation was completed on time and within budget, earning numerous accolades. The theatre now features a ‘thrust’ stage, extending into the audience for a more intimate experience, reminiscent of Shakespeare's original playhouses. 

The reconstruction preserved two Grade II listed facades and the 1930s Art Deco foyer areas. Traditional craftsmen were employed to dismantle and reposition parts of the existing building, rather than demolish them. Early programme and cost planning were crucial to the project's success, as was safeguarding against potential flooding from the nearby River Avon. 

Community engagement was a key aspect, with open days and local school involvement throughout the project. The theatre used over 5,000 reclaimed bricks and incorporated more than 2,500 design changes, demonstrating the team's agility and commitment to preserving the building's heritage. 

The refurbished theatre has been recognised with multiple awards, including the British Construction Industry's Major Project of the Year and the Building Award's Project of the Year in 2011. The addition of a 36-meter high viewing tower offers stunning views over Stratford, and the adjacent Swan Theatre was also upgraded, enhancing the overall cultural experience. 

This project stands as a testament to the successful blend of historic preservation and modern innovation.