Old Vic awarded ?2.4m by Heritage Lottery Fund

Bristol Old Vic has been awarded £2.4m by the Heritage Lottery Fund enabling an ambitious renovation and heritage programme.

The refurbishment will bring the theatre’s history to life, revealing its archives, historic roof space and original 1766 façade for the first time in 250 years.

Cooper’s Hall, which currently serves as the historic theatre’s staircase and foyer, will also be restored to its original purpose as a grand hall and public space.

Emma Stenning said: “Bristol Old Vic has long cherished the very special place that it holds in the hearts of Bristolians far and wide – thousands of whom flocked to King Street this May to celebrate the building’s 250th birthday.

“It’s a feeling that has inspired our heritage project, and we hope that in protecting and sharing the architecture and archives of the theatre in new and exciting ways, we are in fact creating a celebration of the people of this city, who have cared for it, without fail, for so many years.”

The first stage of the Old Vic’s redevelopment began with the theatre’s Georgian auditorium. The next phase includes an ambitious plan to transform the front of house spaces, combining a new studio theatre with the preservation of original architecture.

Within the rafters of the theatre’s once hidden roof space, the public will have access to the famous thunder run.

The oldest of only three to be found in the UK, the Thunder Run is an 18th century surround sound system consisting of weighted balls being rolled down wooden gutters to create the sound of thunder.

Not only will the thunder run be opened, but it will be put back to use as an effect during performances in the theatre. “We’ve tested it out during King Lear in the summer and it’s really amazing,” said Emma.

The grant will also enable the Old Vic, Bristol Record Office and University of Bristol’s Theatre Collection to work together on conserving the theatre’s archives. These cover the history of the building from its foundation in 1766 and include minute books, licences, and deeds, as well as prompt books, programmes, posters and photographs.

Ray Barnett, head of collections and archives at Bristol Culture, said: “We are incredibly excited to be collaborating with Bristol Old Vic and the University of Bristol Theatre Collection on a project that will enable us to conserve, catalogue and digitise the historic archives of the Theatre Royal.

“The result will be a detailed and accessible online resource that pieces together 250 years of theatrical heritage in Bristol.”

Nerys Watts, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund South West, said: “This is fantastic news for Bristol and our nation’s theatrical heritage – and just in time to celebrate Bristol Old Vic’s landmark 250th anniversary.

“Today’s investment, which would not have been possible without National Lottery players, will secure the future of fascinating archives, open up historic and characterful spaces and reveal its incredible story as the world’s oldest theatre.”

Read more: Preparing for The Grinning Man at Bristol Old Vic