News / Arts
Bristol Old Vic refurbishment work begins
Bristol Old Vic’s refurbishment has begun, with the keys of the King Street site now handed to the builders.
Demolition of the 1970s building will be taking place over the next few months before the process of rebuilding the front of house and studio spaces can begin.
A new glass-fronted entrance foyer will reveal the original walls of the theatre to the street.
The project will also see the return of the Grade 1 listed Coopers’ Hall to its 18th century dimensions for use as an events spacewhile it will bring a new studio theatre, a modern bar and restaurant facilities, lifts to all floors and new toilets.
Old Vic chief executive Emma Stenning said: “Today marks a significant moment in the refurbishment of this remarkable building. Since Tom Morris and I arrived here in 2009, we knew that this project needed to happen to give Bristol Old Vic the best possible chance for a successful and secure future.
“It will enable us to open up new streams of income, from heritage tours, to catering and the hire of events spaces. We’ll move from being a venue that just comes alive in the evenings for a theatre production, to somewhere that is a sociable space from morning til night.
“We’re delighted to be able to welcome the hugely respected and award-winning team of Gilbert-Ash on board today to help us realise this vision.
“We look forward to sharing progress reports with the people of Bristol over the next 18 months. The finished results will be breathtaking.”
Read more: Bristol Old Vic awarded £2.4m by Heritage Lottery Fund
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