The Almeida is a unique space and combines the best of 19th century original features with the comfort of modern facilities.
 
Refurbishment
 
In 2003 the theatre on Almeida Street reopened after 2 years of refurbishment. The £7.6m needed for these essential repairs was secured from Arts Council England and a successful Capital Appeal to which many generous individuals, trusts and foundations, and corporate supporters donated.

The renovation project included rebuilding the foyer, improving seating and access to the auditorium, and upgrading backstage facilities.

“Splendidly refurbished.” The Independent

“The building is brighter and more spacious … the relationship between stage and auditorium loyally preserved.” Sunday Times

"The refurbishment is a success…The stage and auditorium have retained their distinctive character.” Sunday Telegraph     

The Almeida has an curved back wall just behind the stage.  This unusual feature has the effect of making audiences feel extremely close to the stage and results in an acting area that is almost as large as the auditorium is small.

The distinctive shape of the space has been central to many Almeida productions and the intimacy of the relationship between performers and audience has also played a huge part in the Almeida's success.  As The Times wrote, "a small stage where giants play", referring to the calibre of actors that work on our unique stage.

"The brick-walled intimacy loyally preserved"

The Guardian

"The auditorium with its uncanny ability to combine the intimate and the epic"

Daily Telegraph

"The most actor-friendly space in London" Financial Times

The auditorium seats 325 people, and is divided over 2 levels, the stalls on the ground floor, and the circle upstairs.  Each area offers comfortable bench style seating with plenty of leg room.

The auditorium is air-cooled during the summer months.

The foyer is light and airy, with a tall glass ceiling, and links the auditorium to the theatre bar.  The foyer is also where the box office and kiosk are located.

The foyer is fully accessible.

“Very slick and smart foyer and bar” The Times

Tours of the Almeida Theatre, led by an experienced guide, offer the opportunity to explore the depths of the theatre, behind the scenes activity and an explanation of the history of the building.

Tours last approximately 1 hour and include a post-tour coffee in the Almeida Theatre bar.

Upcoming tours:

Sat 28 Feb 2009 11am

Sat 13 June 2009 11am

£5 (£4 concs)

As the Almeida Theatre is a listed building, physical access to some parts of the tour will be restricted. Please inform the Box Office when booking if you are a wheelchair user or have access requirements.