Originally built in 1888, London's Royal Court has been the home of the English Stage Company since 1956. It is one of the most important theatres for new writing in Europe, presenting a consistently challenging mix of avant-garde and experimental new work. By the mid 1990s, the theatre had become dangerously dilapidated and was at the point of physical collapse, and a radical renovation and remodelling programme was urgently required. Existing spaces were expanded, circulation rationalized and new parts added - effectively doubling usable space. To the rear, a new nine-storey annexe provides new dressing rooms and office space. The stage tower of the Jerwood Theatre Downstairs has been extended upwards, a hydraulic lift added, the auditorium reconfigured to improve sightlines, and plump new maroon leather and steel seats installed. A new below ground restaurant/bar and a bookshop have been created. The Theatre Upstairs has increased height and space and now seats 100.

Services
Concept design, theatre planning, and theatre equipment design and specification

Owner
English Stage Company

Users
English Stage Company, touring performances, and national and regional groups

Acoustician
Paul Gillieron Acoustic Design

Theatre Type(s)
Drama Theatre

Seat Count(s)
408
100

Construction Type
Renovation