Royal National Theatre

The Royal National Theatre stands beside the Thames in London’s South Bank. Its modern building, designed by Denys Lasdun, holds three theatres and overlooks the river. The company began in 1963 under Laurence Olivier, who directed its first production of Hamlet with Peter O’Toole. Among the early ensemble were Maggie Smith, Derek Jacobi and Joan Plowright. The theatre moved here from the Old Vic in 1976 when the Olivier Theatre opened. Its architecture uses bold concrete forms and wide terraces for public space. The theatre is worth the journey for its varied programme of classic and new plays. Each auditorium can run up to three shows at once, giving a wide choice. National Theatre Live began in 2009, broadcasting productions to over 2,500 venues in 60 countries. NT Live started with Phèdre starring Helen Mirren shown in 70 UK cinemas. A streaming service added in 2020 offers plays for temporary rental or by subscription. The theatre also tours across the United Kingdom and has sent productions to Broadway and beyond. Visitors find three stages inside the building: the Olivier, the Lyttelton and the Dorfman. The Olivier has a fan-shaped auditorium and a five-storey revolving stage. The Lyttelton seats 890 and the Dorfman 400, both adaptable for different productions. The riverside terraces provide views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the London skyline. Bars, restaurants and bookshops sit among the foyers, open to all during the day. The building’s concrete curves and open walkways make it a landmark of 1960s design.