Theatre / News
Old Vic gets grant for huge heritage project
Britain’s oldest theatre is gearing up to roll out a landmark heritage project to celebrate its 250th anniversary next year, including the refurbishment of the historic Cooper’s Hall and the creation of new public spaces and special programmes.
Awarded a development grant of £220,500 by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), Bristol Old Vic hopes to bring two and a half centuries of theatrical history to life, conserving the original 18th century façade of the building and hosting heritage tours around the site so visitors can learn more about Bristol’s rich dramatic history.
Also as part of the project, work will take place at the Theatre Collection and Bristol Record Office to appraise and protect key aspects of the collections, making them more accessible for public viewing.
is needed now More than ever
The historic thunder run, a tunnel sat high above the theatre ceiling where metal balls would have been rolled from one end to the other to create the sound of thunder before the time of digital effects, will be surveyed and tested prior to its eventual repair.
“We’re thrilled that the HLF has given us this support as it will enable us to push forward with our exciting plans to transform the theatre into an internationally-significant hub of cultural and historical interest,” says chief executive Emma Stenning.
“This major redevelopment project will allow tourists, theatre audiences, day visitors and schoolchildren to engage with the Old Vic’s fascinating heritage like never before.”
For more information, visit www.bristololdvic.org.uk.
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
