Birmingham Repertory Theatre
In November 1999, Birmingham Repertory Theatre opened its doors on an extensively refurbished auditorium and technical production system—the third theatre in the company’s history. The “new” theatre seats audiences in a single seating cluster, making it feel more immersive and intimate. Today, the Rep is a powerhouse producing theatre with an enviable pedigree.
The original “old rep”, created in 1913 by the producer, Sir Barry Jackson, was replaced in 1971 by a 903-seat theatre. Both shared a common origin of thought: a single tier, raked auditorium without divide. In its refurbishment, the principal assets of the theatre and the relationship of the stage to the audience have been carefully preserved. However, the new, re-tiered auditorium is narrower, with 824 seats. The stage has been trapped and is capable of high scenic loads. Interchangeable wagons allow the front rows of seating to be replaced – as a stage extension or orchestra pit. New state-of-the-art production lighting and sound systems are operated from a new control suite, and the whole auditorium incorporates an ether-link network to work with modern technology.
- 824-seat drama theatre
