The Building

The Almeida is a unique space and combines the best of 19th century original features with the comfort of modern facilities.

 

 

 
Picture of the outside of the Almeida Theatre
Stage

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 newspaper wrote, a small stage where giants play referring to the calibre of actors that work on our unique stage.

 
Picture of Almeida stage with lights
Seating Area

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-conditioned during the summer months.

 
Entrance to the auditorium
Foyer

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.

 
Picture of an audience in the Almeida foyer
Refurbishment

In 2003, the theatre on Almeida Street reopened after 2 years refurbishment.  The funding for these essential repairs was funded by the Arts Council in November 1999.

 


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

 

Take a guided tour to explore the Almeida building.

 
Picture of the glass ceiling of the foyer