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Designed by William Wilkins the Theatre Royal opened in October
1818. It is the only surviving Regency Playhouse in England and
is Grade I listed
Although much of the original structure remained, it had been
much altered over the years. A key aim of the project was to
re-establish the eighteenth century relationship between audience
and actor within the restored auditorium. Alterations and improvements
were made behind the scenes to accommodate modern technology
and to improve access and facilities for both staff and actors.
Front of house facilities are also improved and an extension
built in the garden of the adjoining property.
The Theatre re-opened in September 2007.
RIBA Regional Award 2008
"This
unique Grade 1 listed William Wilkins designed and owned Regency
theatre dating from 1819 had suffered a series of inappropriate
changes and a long period of neglect before being rescued by
the National Trust. The architects have beautifully restored,
repaired and reinvigorated the auditorium and led the whole building
gently by the hand into the 21st century. New facilities including
a modern but self-effacing foyer extension sit comfortably alongside
and contribute effortlessly to the workings of a magical theatrical
space."
Civic
Trust Award Commendation 2008
"The
Heritage Lottery Fund was delighted to help return this wonderful
building to its original glory, and it has become one of our
landmark projects in the East of England. This extensive restoration
will secure the future of the building for decades to come and
give visitors a chance to experience theatre exactly as it would
have been enjoyed by Georgian audiences when it was first built."
Crown Estate Conservation
Award 2008, USITT Architectural Award 2008, Museums and Heritage
Awards 2008, Highly Commended (restoration and conversion), Suffolk
Preservation Society Awards 2009
Principal:
Nirupa Perera
Project Engineer: Jonathan Coleman |
