Transformation Phase 4

This 3D section of the proposed design for the existing Courtyard Theatre auditorium structure. It shows our flexible studio auditorium in the centre, with two rehearsal rooms suspended above it. To the right of the auditorium is the proposed Costume Store on three levels, with curved rails on the upper storeys.

A sketch of the proposed auditorium, a 200-300 seat studio theatre which can be used in different configurations giving it more flexibility that the old 170-seat TOP.

A colour sketch of the auditorium and stage for the proposed new TOP.

As well as creating a flexible studio space, we hope to relocate our Costume Store making over 30,000 costumes available to the public for the first time through our theatre tours.

Under our proposal, the remodelled TOP would include two new rehearsal rooms suspended from the roof, bringing the actors back from the edge of town location and creating a hub of activity close to our main theatres.

Photo shows actors rehearsing for Richard III (2012) directed by Roxana Silbert.

TOP was our studio theatre where many of our smaller productions were staged and new work developed in Stratford-upon-Avon.

It closed in 2005 to accommodate the creation of the temporary Courtyard Theatre which housed productions during the Complete Works Festival and our core work during the closure of the main theatres for the transformation.