Backstage, The Old Vic

Designed by Haworth Tompkins and completed in 2024, Backstage transforms The Old Vic – one of London’s oldest theatres – with a six-storey timber extension that creates an inclusive, low-carbon home for learning, rehearsal and community life. The new building stitches into the fabric of the historic Grade II* listed theatre, opening the venue throughout the day and providing dedicated spaces for writers, artists, students, staff and the wider community for the first time in the theatre’s 200-year history. 

The primary structure is a 19-metre European spruce glulam post-and-beam frame, engineered with bolted connections so it can be disassembled and reused at the end of its life. Large-span beams create open, flexible spaces across six levels – from a triple-height café and bar at ground level to rehearsal rooms, a writers’ room, learning studios and a naturally ventilated events space with roof terrace at the top. The frame cleverly incorporates voids for circulation, a lift shaft and light wells, while providing stability for the striking street façade. The existing structure was retained wherever possible, with lightweight partitions specified for future reconfiguration. 

Accessibility shaped the design from the outset, with an access group influencing circulation routes, colour palettes, lighting and sightlines. For the first time in the theatre’s history, the stage door is fully step-free, connecting to all levels. Dressing rooms now have daylight and ensuite provision, with a dedicated accessible dressing room providing direct access to the stage. The glulam frame was finished with Osmo PolyX oil in clear matt, providing durability while exposing the natural timber throughout the building.