The transformation of the New Theatre Royal, which dates from the mid-1800s, includes the extension of the original building to provide a range of new facilities that will support the theatre’s ambitions to create its own productions and become an important creative space for film, television and drama students from the university. ISG will deliver a new double-height studio theatre and TV studio, each with its own control room, as well as flexible teaching space, music practice rooms and office space.
A significant fundraising campaign, spearheaded by the theatre and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Arts Council England, has enabled the project to begin, with further donations being sought to do more refurbishment and improvements to the Grade II listed building.
The project will increase the theatre’s capacity from 500 to 700 seats, due to the removal of temporary structures required following the 1972 fire. The project is scheduled for completion in summer 2014.
ISG was responsible for delivering the £25.6m Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury with architect Keith Williams in 2011. It has also secured the contract for the £52m refurbishment of the former BBC World Service HQ in London.
