The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is now closed in preparation for the transformation of the RSC's Stratford-upon-Avon home. The theatre is currently being decomissioned with the removal of technical equipment and heritage items prior to the start of building work.

The new Royal Shakespeare Theatre, due to be completed in 2010, will house a new 1000-seat thrust stage auditorium in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the largest thrust stage with a tiered auditorium in the world. This performance space will bring actors and the audience closer together, with the distance of the seat furthest from the stage being reduced from 29 metres to 15 metres. Improved public spaces and riverside walkway, a rooftop restaurant, theatre tower with viewing platform and new public square will also form part of the plans.

The work is scheduled to be complete in 2010. Until then The Courtyard Theatre will be the RSC's main home and the Company will make use of venues across Stratford-upon-Avon, such as the Civic Hall. The Swan Theatre will stay open with a full programme until 18th August 2007. The RSC will continue to perform in London during its annual season and there will be a full national and international touring programme.