Theatre Royal Drury Lane Undergoes 20 Month Renovation

As of the 5th January, Theatre Royal Drury Lane closed its doors for 20 months for a renovation project that will restore the historic theatre to its former 1812 glory. The Theatre will re-open in September 2020 with a blockbuster show that is transferring from Broadway.

“The auditorium will be completely reconfigured into a comfortable and more intimate space. Producers will have the choice of a traditional proscenium arch or in-the-round configuration. We’re reducing the audience capacity by 200 to create wider seats, more legroom and better sightlines. The auditorium will also be reshaped to create a tighter curve, bringing the performer and audience closer together.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber

‍Access improvements to the building will include a new street level entrance, ramps to the stalls, 5 new accessible WCs and a 16-person passenger lift catering to all levels of the theatre. In a bid to curb bathroom waiting times for women in particular, 20 female cubicles will be installed taking the number of female WCs to x55. Led by architect Steve Tompkins, the grand cantilevered Wyatt staircases which were lost 100 years ago will be revealed to create new areas for seating and hospitality.

“The improvements planned for Theatre Royal Drury Lane will reinforce that this building is truly one of the greatest musical houses in the world” – Andrew Lloyd Webber

‍Upon reopening the theatre will offer facilities beyond the regular theatrical fare, creating a true destination venue in its own right. Front of house facilities will be open to the public all day and include bars, restaurants and cafes so the iconic interiors can be enjoyed by everyone not just theatregoers in the heart of Covent Garden.