Old Rep

The Old Rep stands on Station Street in Birmingham, a Grade II listed theatre built in 1913 as the first purpose-built repertory theatre in the United Kingdom. It was founded by Barry Jackson, who funded its entire construction and established the Birmingham Repertory Company there. The theatre’s design drew on German and Munich models, with architect S. N. Cooke creating a space meant for democratic, innovative performances. Jackson’s vision was to make art serve artistic purpose rather than commercial gain, a principle that shaped the theatre’s early years. The building retains many Edwardian features, both inside and out, preserving its original character. The theatre became a launchpad for actors who later became major figures in British theatre. Laurence Olivier, Ralph Richardson, Peggy Ashcroft, Edith Evans, Paul Scofield, Albert Finney and Derek Jacobi all performed there early in their careers. The Rep also premiered works by George Bernard Shaw and staged innovative productions, including modern-dress Shakespeare and experimental drama. In 1917, it appointed the UK’s first female stage manager, Maud Gill, who overcame resistance by treating stagehands as a family. Despite a fire in 1921 and a bomb during the Birmingham Blitz in 1940, performances continued without long interruption. Inside, the theatre retains its original Edwardian auditorium, with ornate plasterwork and tiered seating arranged for close views of the stage. The stage itself is still used for classic and new plays, reflecting the Rep’s century-long tradition. Behind the building, a workshop in Hinckley Street remains connected, where sets and costumes were once made. Across the street stands New Street Station, marked by a blue plaque honouring Sir Barry Jackson. Station Street itself holds other historic buildings, including Britain’s oldest working cinema, The Electric, and two recently listed pubs, adding to the area’s cultural richness.