Improving theatre infrastructure is not just about erecting new buildings or extending current ones; it’s about creating immersive experiences that captivate audiences, engage communities and improve economic potential. At Focus our multi-disciplinary consultancy services play a pivotal role in enhancing the offering of theatres nationwide. From securing vital funding streams and increasing revenue to improving the long term sustainability of the business and growing audience numbers, we’ve been instrumental in transforming theatres into vibrant cultural hubs that offer world class facilities.

Our approach goes beyond delivering a bricks and mortar capital works project. We understand that our clients’ briefs are much more complex, seeking to prioritise the patron experience, enhance visitor spaces, and create versatile spaces suitable for a wide range of performance events. Our technical understanding of lighting, audio and acoustics enable the client to create purpose-built rehearsal spaces that foster creativity and artistic development, while our experience within sustainability ensures theatres reduce their environmental impact and remain viable for generations to come. Through facilitating inclusive participation programmes and community engagement initiatives, we successfully engage key stakeholders and under-represented groups within the local community.

As well as creating world class facilities for students and performers, a theatre’s impact extends further; serving as catalysts for urban regeneration and economic growth. See some of our recent case studies here:

Curve Leicester:

Curve Leicester sought our expertise to elevate their theatre experience and expand their audience reach. By reimagining traditional seating arrangements and optimising their amenities, the team created an immersive environment that captivates audiences and enhances their overall theatrical journey. Our collaboration with Leicester City Council in establishing the Cultural Quarter exemplifies how strategic consulting can create transformational projects that breathe new life into the local areas, forming a vibrant cultural hub for years to come.

Devonshire Park:

At Devonshire Park, sustainability was a key priority in their renovation plans to the Grade II* listed Congress Theatre, as well as addressing the longstanding problem of overheating.  Optioneering in the early stages helped to determine the core priorities for the significant capital investment by Eastbourne Borough Council, with support from SELEP.  The team implemented innovative solutions to optimise the visitor experience and create spaces people want to be in.  The result? A theatre complex that is fit for the future and will sustain the essential tourism economy in Eastbourne.

Mountview @ Peckham:

Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts envisioned a space where aspiring artists could hone their craft and pursue their dreams. Through innovative space optimisation and strategic planning, we helped develop the brief and procurement strategy to deliver new state of the art facilities at pace, with the building opening its doors for students just three years after the site had first been identified.

New Art Exchange:

In the vibrant city of Nottingham, New Art Exchange sought to foster greater community engagement and cultural exchange. Through inclusive design principles and collaborative planning, we created a space that celebrates diversity and encourages dialogue among artists and audiences alike. Today, New Art Exchange serves as a model for inclusive cultural institutions, enriching the fabric of its surrounding community.

Nottingham Girls High School Performing Arts:

Nottingham Girls High School recognised the importance of providing exceptional performing arts facilities for its students. Through strategic investment and thoughtful design, the project enhanced their performing arts spaces, providing students with the resources they need to explore their creativity and unlock their potential.

Theatre Royal:

Theatre Royal, steeped in history and cultural significance, embarked on a journey to preserve its heritage while modernising its facilities. With careful attention to detail and a deep understanding of the theatre’s legacy, we revitalised Theatre Royal, ensuring its continued relevance in the 21st century. Today, Theatre Royal stands as a cherished community asset, preserving its rich history while embracing the future of theatre.

ArtsEd:

ArtsEd, located in the heart of London, approached us with a vision to create cutting-edge rehearsal spaces that would inspire the next generation of performers. We worked with the client team to turn this vision into a clearly articulated brief that we could use to appoint an award winning design team to bring the vision to reality.

Kenneth Moore Theatre:

Preserving heritage while embracing modernity was the challenge presented to us by the Kenneth Moore Theatre.  Working with a team of specialists, we undertook a feasibility study to consider how some of the maintenance and fabric challenges could be addressed whilst also revitalising the visitor experience.  We presented a number of options for further consideration by the Local Authority to consider their next steps and potential investment.

Wyvern Theatre Swindon

Considering the needs of future audiences and the wider masterplan for Swindon town centre, we worked collaboratively to consider various options for the theatre and arts provision in Swindon, including dance, media production, music, heritage, as well as theatre.  This balanced assessment of different options and phasing set out a Development and Investment Management Plan to inform the Council’s thinking.