Grand

The completion of an extensive programme of rebuilding, alterations and additions (1982-87) has meant significant changes to the exterior of the building described in 1982. Everything behind the proscenium has been demolished and a vast new stage and fly-tower built, together with a generous provision of dressing and rehearsal rooms and other facilities.

The excellent auditorium has two well-curved balconies and two superimposed bow-fronted boxes on each side, framed by pilasters. The proscenium is flanked by fluted colonettes standing on extremely elongated pedestals. The head of the proscenium reached directly to the ceiling but the latter has been removed and a lighting bridge installed together with a new ceiling of decorative fibrous plaster some three metres higher. There is rich and lively plasterwork on balcony and box fronts and proscenium. The balconies are supported by iron columns with remarkable Art Nouveau capitals.

An orchestra pit has been constructed on two lifts so that, when not in use, stalls seats can be brought down to the stage. For performances of opera the pit can be opened to sizes suitable for a Mozart orchestra or a Richard Strauss orchestra of 90. In the latter case there is a loss of 35 stalls seats. From the new stage house two entirely new additions extend along the sides of the theatre (as east and west wings) and it is these which allow ante-rooms to be added to the side boxes of the auditorium. Their façades have pediments broken into by Venetian windows. These forward projections are connected across the original front façade by a rusticated colonnade with a glass conservatory over, the forward extension of the theatre façade resulting in a narrowing of Singleton Street.

This major rebuild has created a lively and intimate theatre of great charm. It is the only remaining complete (though altered) theatre by William Hope.