In the 19th century, critical articles and pamphlets about the deplorable state of theater in Britain began to appear in the press. The public complained that their repertoire included only cheap melodramas and comedy musicals. Thus arose the need to create a model theater where the finest works of world classics would be staged, and experienced, professional actors would perform.
The first director of this theater was Laurence Olivier. While a separate building was being constructed for the new institution, its company was housed in the premises of “Old Vic Theatre”.
The building of the Royal National Theatre was designed by the architect Denis Lasdun. It houses three huge auditoriums: Olivier, Lyttelton, and Cottesloe. Each of these spaces has its own purpose, but the main and largest hall is considered to be Olivier. There is a huge revolving stage here, which makes it possible to stage plays with a large number of sets and rapid scene changes.
From the moment of its founding, the Royal National Theatre became famous throughout the world for its brilliant productions. After coming here once, you will definitely want to return again!
