description National Theatre Overview
National Theatre is the United Kingdom's flagship publicly funded theatre on the South Bank, London, founded in 1963 under Laurence Olivier and operating three auditoria in its current building opened in 1976.
help National Theatre FAQ
Who was the first artistic director of the National Theatre in London?
The legendary actor Laurence Olivier was the very first artistic director of the National Theatre when it was officially founded in 1963. The company was originally housed at the Old Vic theatre before moving to its permanent South Bank location.
How many auditoriums are in the National Theatre building?
The National Theatre building on the South Bank in London contains three distinct auditoriums: the Olivier, the Lyttelton, and the Dorfman. Each space is uniquely designed to host different scales and styles of theatrical productions.
When did the National Theatre move to its current South Bank building?
The National Theatre moved into its current building on the South Bank in 1976 after over a decade without a permanent venue. The complex is a prominent example of brutalist architecture, designed by Sir Denys Lasdun.
Is the National Theatre a publicly funded institution?
Yes, the National Theatre is the United Kingdom's flagship publicly funded theatre. It operates as a registered charity and is heavily supported by grants from Arts Council England.
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