Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

Studio M was appointed in June 2024 to join the project team for the restoration and reconfiguration of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Swan Theatre. The project involved reconfiguring the stalls to extend the thrust stage and reinstate the close actor–audience relationship created by the auditorium’s wraparound seating arrangement. The scheme also sought to improve sightlines, audience comfort, accessibility, safety and circulation throughout the stalls and upper gallery levels, enhancing both the audience experience and the theatre’s operational functionality. Studio M provided architectural leadership and coordination, compliance oversight, and specialist auditorium design services for the project.

The works were delivered in two phases during short dark periods, with the remainder of the building remaining fully operational throughout. This included ongoing performances in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and rehearsals within the Ashcroft Rehearsal Room directly above the Swan auditorium. Through effective coordination and problem-solving, the project was completed on time for the opening of Edward II in February 2025.