From the moment you walk into a theatre, you know you’re in a special place – a place where you can be transported to a whole other world. Part of this magical experience is the atmosphere of the building and theatre space. While the pandemic has deprived theatre-goers of the otherworldly wonder that comes with going to the theatre. we’ve pulled together a roundup to remind you of five beautiful British theatres that you simply have to visit as soon as lockdown is over.
Bristol Old Vic Theatre – Bristol
Bristol Old Vic Theatre is the oldest continuously working theatre in the English speaking world. Originally built in 1766, this theatre was mistakenly based on the design of the Richmond Theatre after the wrong blueprint was sent to the architect as a template! It’s a good thing it was – this is widely considered one of the most beautiful British theatres and is also Daniel Day Lewis’s favourite.
Shakespeare’s Globe – London
The Globe is a sublime reconstruction of the original which Shakespeare used as his main theatre space until it burned down in 1613. However, the beautiful wood beams, the thatch roof and the open roof will make you feel like you’ve actually been transported back to the Elizabethan era. The theatre promotes performance styles which are also inspired by traditional Shakespearean performances, making it one of the best places to see The Bard’s work anywhere in the world.
Theatre Royal – Bath
The Theatre Royal in Bath is perhaps the best surviving example of Georgian theatre architecture in the country. The horseshoe shape of the auditorium is probably its most impressive feature – it draws the audience in tightly around the stage which creates a traditional atmosphere for intimate performances.
Tara Theatre – London
Walk through the large ornate doors of the Tara Theatre and you will find an utterly transportive performance space. The auditorium is so incredibly simple – short tiers of red seating on three sides of a small unraised, earth-coloured stage. The simplicity of the interior makes the courtyard of flowers, tea lights and colourful bicycles all the more spectacular. Tara is a beautiful community theatre that shouldn’t be missed.
Festival Theatre – Edinburgh
Nestled in between two lines of period buildings on Nicholson Street lies the Edinburgh Festival Theatre. The first thing you will notice about this venue is the large glass facade which covers the front of the building, creating an instantly modern contrast to the stone buildings on the street. On the inside, however, you get all of the classic grandeur of a Victorian theatre – over 1,900 red seats on three tiers decorated in gold details – simply beautiful.
These theatres are some of the most beautiful in the UK but you can only understand their beauty by seeing them in action – give someone the gift of theatre with Theatre Tokens!