Description

The new development involved the refurbishment of the Edwardian auditorium, demolition and rebuilding of the front of house, foyers, restaurant and bars, and the improvement of rear stage facilities.

Additionally a seven-storey extension was inserted linking the BRB building with the auditorium and foyers. This provided accommodation for the new 200-seat Patrick Centre for the Performing Arts; dressing rooms; hospitality suites; theatre administration offices and large dance studios for BRB and DanceXchange; and the Jerwood Centre for the Prevention and Treatment of Dance Injuries that includes a hydrotherapy pool with underwater cameras.

The project divides into four distinctive elements. Within the Auditorium, a mid-circle entrance was inserted, seating included for a range of disabilities in both tiers, a fire curtain artwork canvas added, and the auditorium redecorated. The previous front of house was demolished, and the Hippodrome given a street presence with the new scheme.

The internal areas were rationalised and levels were coordinated, and natural light was brought into the centre of the building with full height glazed elements onto Hurst Street to the north east and Inge Street to the south east. An off-road 'get in' was made possible with the acquisition of land to the stage rear. The 3.5m difference between the street and stage level has been accommodated by a new 12m trailer lift, and all stage house facilities have been comprehensively upgraded.