Billington Structures Limited have recently secured the £3 million trade contract for steelwork for the transformation of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre (RST) in Stratford-upon-Avon. The contract is part of a complex project, and includes structural steelwork, beam and column extensions, metal decking, offsite fire protection, Easi Edge Protection, Open Mesh Flooring and Thermal Connectors.
The Royal Shakespeare Company’s ambition is to transform the existing Royal Shakespeare Theatre, which opened in 1932, into the best modern day playhouse for Shakespeare in the world. At the heart of the project is a new 1,000 seat thrust stage auditorium which will dramatically improve the relationship between the actors and the audience, reducing the furthest seat from 27 to just 15 metres away from the stage.
Work on the £112.8 million project has already begun. The aim is to keep the best of the old 1932 building, whilst creating exceptional new spaces for the RSC’s audiences and visitors. A new landmark 35 metre tower, which will boast fantastic views across the region, a theatre square where outdoor performances can take place, and a brand new riverside walkway are other key features of the scheme.
Work is due to be completed in 2010. During the closure of the RST, the RSC will continue to perform in Stratford-upon-Avon in its award-winning temporary performance space, The Courtyard Theatre, and on tour throughout the UK and the world.
Photograph shows Peter Wilson OBE Project Director for the Royal Shakespeare Theatre Company on the left Shaking hands with Steve Fareham MD of Billington Structures Limited to the right.
Members of the public can keep up to date with the project by visiting the RSC’s website at www.rsc.org.uk/transformation