Royal Shakespeare Theatre

The transformation of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre was devised to create the best space for the enjoyment of Shakespeare's works by actors and audiences alike. In addition to retaining the distinctive art-deco facades and foyer of the existing Grade II listed theatre, the redesign included a refurbished fly-tower and a new 36 metre high tower, both of which provide an unparalleled view over Shakespeare's town. The principal feature is an entirely reconstructed 1,000-seat auditorium built around a thrust stage that dramatically reduces the distance between the actors and their audience. With expertise gained on other high profile, publicly funded arts projects, Mace was the client's choice to solve the construction challenges and deliver the overall vision.

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is at the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon and the transformation project attracted enormous interest, particularly in the local community. In addition to finding effective solutions to the technical and construction challenges posed by the building and its proximity to the River Avon, the project team was highly commended by the client for its commitment to community and stakeholder engagement. The team conducted regular site tours, welcoming royalty, acting greats and visitors from around the world during the course of the construction programme. Recognition of the team's efforts came from many quarters, but RSC chairman Sir Christopher Bland summed it up: "[The project is] one of the best managed we have ever seen. The speed of the progress on this site I have found absolutely exhilarating."