by William Shakespeare - Almeida Theatre

HISTORY OF THE ALMEIDA
THE ALMEIDA THEATRE is a 321 seat venue
in the heart of Islington. Built in 1837,
originally as the Scientific and Literary
Institute of Islington, the building has
undergone many reincarnations including a
Victorian music hall, a Salvation Army citadel,
when the balcony was most likely added, and a
factory for carnival novelties.
It was converted and founded as a theatre in 1980 by
Pierre Audi, rapidly building up a reputation for high
quality drama, particularly during the 1990s under the
Artistic Directorship of Jonathan Kent and Ian
McDiarmid.
In 2001 the company relocated to Kings Cross, whilst
major refurbishment took place, providing an entirely
new front-of-house and, through massive excavation,
extra back-stage space. The company returned to
Islington in 2003 under the direction of present Artistic
Director Michael Attenborough.
The Almeida is known worldwide for producing an
adventurous and diverse range of British and
international drama with some of the world’s finest
artists. In its unique space, uniting the epic and the
intimate, the Almeida presents classics (when foreign,
in newly commissioned versions) aiming to reveal
them in a fresh light, alongside brand new plays from
across the English-speaking world.
EXPLORE THE ALMEIDA
The Almeida buiding in 1840
You can find out more about the history of this
fascinating building on our theatre tours.
Led by an experienced guide they offer the opportunity
to explore the depths of the theatre including backstage,
wardrobe, and technical departments.
The tours also look at the history of the building through
its many incarnations up to the present day. We finish
the tours with a complimentary tea or coffee in the bar.
Upcoming tours Saturday 27 March,
Saturday 29 May, 11am. Tickets £5
For more information see www.almeida.co.uk
or to book a place on a tour contact box office on
020 7359 4404.
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Photo: Ewald van der Straeten