Orange Tree Theatre today announces that the company will embark on a capital development project to transform both the audience and artist experience, whilst improving the overall environmental impact of the building, futureproofing the theatre for the next generation.
OT has commissioned Allies and Morrison as the architect for the project, which will put accessibility at the heart of the building, improving the experience both front of house and backstage. The iconic auditorium will remain untouched aside from additional wheelchair positions, and efforts will be made to retain the OT’s unique charm across the evolved spaces. The works are planned to begin in 2026, with the theatre remaining operational throughout the period of construction.
Executive Director Hanna Streeter said today, “Our current route in for disabled audiences is at best awkward and at worst impossible. This project will completely transform how we’re able to welcome people into our building with level access, more space for connection and a vibrant street presence. Additionally, the new space will enable a growth in revenue opportunities and a reduction in carbon emissions, ensuring we can be a theatre for everyone for generations to come.”
Artistic Director Tom Littler said today, “We are excited by all the creative possibilities of this excellent design. A more spacious and accessible front of house supports the expansion of our ambitious and important community work. Whilst preserving the unique magic of our auditorium, we will be able to engage with a wider range of artists. In short, the OT will be more accessible, more enjoyable, and more useful to our community.”
OT Trustee Indiana Lown-Collins said today, “There’s something so warm and nurturing about the Orange Tree, the moment you start to work here you can feel the whole building supporting you from every angle, that is, apart from the building itself. As a disabled artist the industry can feel daunting and like it’s not for you, this project will play its part in changing that and enable more disabled artists, community participants and audiences to have an equitable experience.”
Architect Oli Heywood said today, “The Orange Tree Theatre is a place very close to our hearts and we are proud to be playing a part in its evolution into a more inclusive and welcoming part of Richmond’s cultural fabric. Through a remarkably simple move we are able to create step-free street level access directly into the theatre’s foyer and bar, and, through these, into the theatre itself. Without extending the building beyond its current footprint, or diminishing any of its unique charm, we can also significantly increase the amount of public space while bringing the life of the building closer to the street.”
Key aspects of the works include:
- Transforming access: With no front steps everyone can enter through the same front door; a new front of house lift will provide access to all levels, including a new front of house accessible toilet; wheelchair spaces in the auditorium will be tripled; and for the first time wheelchair users will be able to perform on the stage.
- Creating a welcoming space: 40m² of additional foyer space will double the existing space, providing a welcoming space for gathering, with a split-level seating area and accessible upper floor room, as well as additional toilet facilities.
- Investing in our community: The transformed front of house will provide additional space for community events, local exhibitions, artist hot desking, pushchairs and baby-changing facilities; encouraging intergenerational cohesion.
- Embedding sustainability: A new building management system and energy efficient lighting, ventilation, water saving and electricals will reduce CO² emissions by 22%, while strengthening our organisational resilience.
The projected budget for the works is £4m, with the company having already raised over half that sum thanks to the generosity of their Founders Circle members. The company plan to raise a further £1m by June 2025, before launching a public fundraising initiative to complete the works.
