The Old Vic Front of House Transformation Launches

01.10.2019

Continuing Bennetts Associates’ work at The Old Vic in an association that stretches back to 2012, the project is the first major phase to be undertaken as part of a wider redevelopment of the 200 year old theatre. The transformation aims to create more welcoming environment for patrons and safe-guard the long-term future of this historic theatre.

Notable features include -

• an accessible entrance on Waterloo Road with a lift down to the Penny café and bar and up to the new accessible Box Office and inner foyer areas
• a redesigned accessible Penny café and bar with a doubled loo provision including a wheelchair accessible loo, baby changing facilities and two ‘roomier’ loos
• an accessible Box Office and inner foyer space featuring a bespoke theatrical curtain designed by Rob Howell
• the creation of a large outer foyer bar
• increased loo provision on the Baylis Circle level decorated with the colour Little Greene Old Vic Red which also features throughout the new spaces

Kate Varah, Executive Director, said: ‘We set out to make changes to The Old Vic that were reflective of the needs of today’s audiences and our local community. An accessible front of house, new lift, 10 auditorium wheelchair spaces, double the loo provision, an additional bar, and an ethically produced sustainable range of food and wine on offer, all feel like significant steps towards securing The Old Vic’s future as an artistic powerhouse and a vital civic resource.’