126-561: Sir Nicholas Robert Hytner ( / ˈ h aɪ t n ər / HYTE -nər ; born 7 May 1956) is an English theatre director, film director, and film producer. He was previously the Artistic Director of London's National Theatre . His major successes as director include Miss Saigon , The History Boys and One Man, Two Guvnors . He is also known for directing films such as The Madness of King George (1994), The Crucible (1996), The History Boys (2006), and The Lady in
252-498: A video on demand streaming service, specifically created for National Theatre Live recordings, was introduced. Videos of plays are added every month, and can be "rented" for temporary viewing, or unlimited recordings can be watched through a monthly or yearly subscription programme. The NT had an annual turnover of approximately £105 million in 2015–16, of which earned income made up 75% (58% from ticket sales, 5% from NT Live and Digital, and 12% from commercial revenue such as in
378-465: A National Theatre Company, which would lease the Old Vic theatre in the interim. The "National Theatre Company" opened on 22 October 1963 with Hamlet , starring Peter O'Toole in the title role. The company was founded by Laurence Olivier , who became the first artistic director of the company. As fellow directors, he enlisted William Gaskill and John Dexter . Among the first ensemble of actors of
504-410: A National Theatre Company, which would lease the Old Vic theatre in the interim. The "National Theatre Company" opened on 22 October 1963 with Hamlet , starring Peter O'Toole in the title role. The company was founded by Laurence Olivier , who became the first artistic director of the company. As fellow directors, he enlisted William Gaskill and John Dexter . Among the first ensemble of actors of
630-486: A believer, but I do think it is a significant part of my adventure and it fascinates me. I couldn't say I'm a member of the Jewish community or gay community in that I don't seek out either of those communities to hang out with, but it is an important part of who I believe myself to [be]." Hytner's mother, Joyce Hytner OBE, is a theatrical fundraiser, who has served on the board of many organisations including The Old Vic ,
756-401: A historic average of 65%, with no loss in overall income, and with encouraging a younger and more diverse audience. In 2003 it was reported that one third of the audience for the multiracial production of Henry V in modern dress (directed by Hytner) had never been to the theatre before, and that a large section of the audience for the drama Elmina's Kitchen were Black east Londoners new to
882-599: A large theatrical bookshop, restaurants, bars and exhibition spaces. The terraces and foyers of the theatre complex have also been used for ad hoc, short seasonal and experimental performances and screenings. The riverside forecourt of the theatre is used for regular season of open-air performances in the summer months. The Clore Learning Centre is a new dedicated space for learning at the National Theatre. It offers events and courses for all ages, exploring theatre-making from playwriting to technical skills, often led by
1008-532: A large theatrical bookshop, restaurants, bars and exhibition spaces. The terraces and foyers of the theatre complex have also been used for ad hoc, short seasonal and experimental performances and screenings. The riverside forecourt of the theatre is used for regular season of open-air performances in the summer months. The Clore Learning Centre is a new dedicated space for learning at the National Theatre. It offers events and courses for all ages, exploring theatre-making from playwriting to technical skills, often led by
1134-458: A later stage to see how it's all going." (Hytner does also direct plays himself at the National, and all his theatre work since 2003 has originated there.) But his role is also about the overall direction of the National Theatre as an organisation. "It would be wrong to say that I confine myself only to the repertoire – I don't. I think how we allocate our resources, exactly what we spend money on,
1260-664: A live audience. The service was launched initially to UK secondary schools in 2015 with productions for Key Stage 3 pupils and above. In November 2016, the National Theatre launched to service to UK primary schools, adding a number of new titles for Key Stage 2. Productions currently offered by the service include Frankenstein (directed by Danny Boyle , starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller ), Othello (directed by Nicholas Hytner , starting Adrian Lester and Rory Kinnear ), Antigone (directed by Polly Findlay , starring Christopher Eccleston and Jodie Whittaker ), and Jane Eyre (directed by Sally Cookson ). In 2018,
1386-664: A live audience. The service was launched initially to UK secondary schools in 2015 with productions for Key Stage 3 pupils and above. In November 2016, the National Theatre launched to service to UK primary schools, adding a number of new titles for Key Stage 2. Productions currently offered by the service include Frankenstein (directed by Danny Boyle , starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller ), Othello (directed by Nicholas Hytner , starting Adrian Lester and Rory Kinnear ), Antigone (directed by Polly Findlay , starring Christopher Eccleston and Jodie Whittaker ), and Jane Eyre (directed by Sally Cookson ). In 2018,
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#17327652405491512-537: A marvellously visual point of view," Mackintosh said. For Hytner, "It just felt like a huge lark... It was gigantic, and I was into gigantic at the time, so I threw everything I knew at it. It was big, honest, moving, brash, kind of crazy. I had no idea that it would take off." Hytner's London production of Miss Saigon opened on 20 September 1989, and closed on 30 October 1999 after just over ten years, on its 4,274th performance, having grossed more than £150 million in ticket sales during its London run. Hytner also directed
1638-672: A musical version of Alice in Wonderland . In 1985 he became an Associate Director of the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester , a position he retained until 1989. Hytner was hired by producer Cameron Mackintosh to direct Miss Saigon , the next work from Les Misérables creators Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg . "I had seen several of Nick's opera productions – Handel's 'Xerxes' and Mozart's 'Magic Flute' – as well as some of his classical plays, and he has
1764-507: A new Director. I had a long conversation with Christopher Hogg, then Chairman of the NT Board, and Tom Stoppard about my ideas for the NT's future. These included a redefinition of how it might be possible to use the theatre spaces and opening up the NT to new audiences by lowering prices for some performances." Hytner was successful in his application for the post, and his appointment as Director
1890-402: A play or novel, having been based on an original screenplay. He also spent 15 months developing a film of the musical Chicago , to star Madonna , but the project foundered and was later made with a different director and cast . When Trevor Nunn announced that he would be leaving the National Theatre, Hytner "really felt that this time I had a strong sense of what the NT should be doing under
2016-511: A portrait of actress Katie Leung standing in front of The Shed as part of the artist's "London Portraits" series, where he asked various cultural figures to choose a place in London for the backdrop of their portraits. Leung explained she chose The Shed as her backdrop because she performed there in the 2013 play The World of Extreme Happiness , and also because "... it's a temporary theatre, it's not permanent, and I wanted to make it permanent in
2142-458: A portrait of actress Katie Leung standing in front of The Shed as part of the artist's "London Portraits" series, where he asked various cultural figures to choose a place in London for the backdrop of their portraits. Leung explained she chose The Shed as her backdrop because she performed there in the 2013 play The World of Extreme Happiness , and also because "... it's a temporary theatre, it's not permanent, and I wanted to make it permanent in
2268-416: A role and as I didn't have this kind of idea at that time, I decided not to apply," Hytner said later. He continued as an Associate Director at the National until 1997, when the new Director, Trevor Nunn , took up his post. Hytner directed more films: The Crucible (1996) with Daniel Day-Lewis , The Object of My Affection (1998) and Center Stage (2000). The last of these was not an adaptation from
2394-691: A site close to the Royal Festival Hall for the purpose, so the National Theatre Act 1949 ( 12, 13 & 14 Geo. 6 . c. 16), offering financial support, was passed by Parliament . Ten years after the foundation stone had been laid in 1951, the government declared that the nation could not afford a National Theatre; in response, the LCC offered to waive any rent and pay half the construction costs. The government still tried to apply unacceptable conditions to save money, attempting to force
2520-501: A site close to the Royal Festival Hall for the purpose, so the National Theatre Act 1949 ( 12, 13 & 14 Geo. 6 . c. 16), offering financial support, was passed by Parliament . Ten years after the foundation stone had been laid in 1951, the government declared that the nation could not afford a National Theatre; in response, the LCC offered to waive any rent and pay half the construction costs. The government still tried to apply unacceptable conditions to save money, attempting to force
2646-468: A televised production of the 1977 Cambridge Footlights Revue. However, Hytner did not consider acting his strong point. "I think I was savvy enough when I went to Cambridge to discover I was a poor actor," he said later. He also did some directing, including a production of Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill 's Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny . After leaving Cambridge, Hytner's first "proper paid job"
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#17327652405492772-616: A theatre in Bloomsbury . This work was interrupted by World War I. In 1910, George Bernard Shaw wrote a short comedy, The Dark Lady of the Sonnets , in which Shakespeare himself attempts to persuade Elizabeth I of the necessity of building a National Theatre to stage his plays. The play was part of the long-term campaign to build a National Theatre. Finally, in 1948, the London County Council (LCC) presented
2898-431: A theatre in Bloomsbury . This work was interrupted by World War I. In 1910, George Bernard Shaw wrote a short comedy, The Dark Lady of the Sonnets , in which Shakespeare himself attempts to persuade Elizabeth I of the necessity of building a National Theatre to stage his plays. The play was part of the long-term campaign to build a National Theatre. Finally, in 1948, the London County Council (LCC) presented
3024-419: A theatre practitioner. "I think I'm a theatre director who does other stuff," he has said. "I can't see myself as a film-maker. I love doing opera when ever I've done it, but I always see myself as visiting from the theatre, which is where I belong. The real film-maker thinks with a camera, which is something I just can't do." Hytner is gay. Although brought up in a Jewish household, Hytner said in 2010, "I'm not
3150-589: A theatrical space. Hytner has worked extensively in opera, with many of his productions achieving critical acclaim and commercial success – his English National Opera staging of The Magic Flute was in repertory for 25 years. But Hytner has described himself (to an opera-related audience) as "someone who is unimpressed by his own work on the operatic stage". Similarly, most of Hytner's films have achieved critical and commercial success, with The Madness of King George winning BAFTA and Evening Standard awards for best British film, but he still sees himself as primarily
3276-561: A third production in Doncaster in partnership with Cast and six local community partners. The new adaptation of The Caucasian Chalk Circle was originally planned for 2020 but has been postponed, due to COVID-19. In December 2020, in partnership with The Guardian , Public Acts released an online musical called We Begin Again by James Graham ( Quiz ) as a music video and a standalone track released by Broadway Records. River Stage
3402-452: A third production in Doncaster in partnership with Cast and six local community partners. The new adaptation of The Caucasian Chalk Circle was originally planned for 2020 but has been postponed, due to COVID-19. In December 2020, in partnership with The Guardian , Public Acts released an online musical called We Begin Again by James Graham ( Quiz ) as a music video and a standalone track released by Broadway Records. River Stage
3528-730: Is a lovely work and so good from so many angles...it has that inevitable and finished look that great work does." Despite the controversy, the theatre has been a Grade II* listed building since 1994. Although the theatre is often cited as an archetype of Brutalist architecture in England, since Lasdun's death the building has been re-evaluated as having closer links to the work of Le Corbusier , rather than contemporary monumental 1960s buildings such as those of Paul Rudolph . The carefully refined balance between horizontal and vertical elements in Lasdun's building has been contrasted favourably with
3654-622: Is a lovely work and so good from so many angles...it has that inevitable and finished look that great work does." Despite the controversy, the theatre has been a Grade II* listed building since 1994. Although the theatre is often cited as an archetype of Brutalist architecture in England, since Lasdun's death the building has been re-evaluated as having closer links to the work of Le Corbusier , rather than contemporary monumental 1960s buildings such as those of Paul Rudolph . The carefully refined balance between horizontal and vertical elements in Lasdun's building has been contrasted favourably with
3780-627: Is a performing arts venue and associated theatre company located in London , England. The NT was founded by the actor Laurence Olivier in 1963, and many well-known actors have performed with it since. The company was based at The Old Vic theatre in Waterloo until 1976. The current building is located next to the Thames in the South Bank area of central London. In addition to performances at
3906-450: Is always an artistic decision. I think the amount of attention we give to what goes on in the foyers, what goes on outside, how the building looks at night, the amount of attention we give to our education work and our website are all artistic matters. They all stem from a sense of the artistic direction of the organization." Under Hytner's directorship, the National has innovated with Sunday openings, live cinema broadcasts of NT plays around
Nicholas Hytner - Misplaced Pages Continue
4032-569: Is invited to perform in a final festival at the National Theatre, usually in the Olivier Theatre and Dorfman Theatre. The National Theatre Collection (formerly called On Demand. In Schools ) is the National Theatre's free production streaming service for educational establishments worldwide, which is free to UK state schools. The service is designed for use by teachers and educators in the classroom, and features recordings of curriculum-linked productions filmed in high definition in front of
4158-504: Is invited to perform in a final festival at the National Theatre, usually in the Olivier Theatre and Dorfman Theatre. The National Theatre Collection (formerly called On Demand. In Schools ) is the National Theatre's free production streaming service for educational establishments worldwide, which is free to UK state schools. The service is designed for use by teachers and educators in the classroom, and features recordings of curriculum-linked productions filmed in high definition in front of
4284-511: Is produced by Fran Miller. The annual "Watch This Space" festival was a free summer-long celebration of outdoor theatre, circus and dance, which was replaced in 2015 by the River Stage festival. "Watch This Space" featured events for all ages, including workshops and classes for children and adults. "Watch This Space" had a strong national and international relationships with leading and emerging companies working in many different aspects of
4410-451: Is produced by Fran Miller. The annual "Watch This Space" festival was a free summer-long celebration of outdoor theatre, circus and dance, which was replaced in 2015 by the River Stage festival. "Watch This Space" featured events for all ages, including workshops and classes for children and adults. "Watch This Space" had a strong national and international relationships with leading and emerging companies working in many different aspects of
4536-593: Is the National Theatre's free outdoor summer festival that place over five weekends outside the National Theatre in its north-east cornersquare. It is accompanied by a number of additional street food stalls and bars run by the NT. The event features programmes developed by various companies for the first four weekends, with the National Theatre itself programming the fifth weekend. Participating organisations have included The Glory, HOME Manchester , Sadler's Wells , nonclassical , WOMAD , Latitude Festival , Bristol's Mayfest and Rambert . The festival launched in 2015 and
4662-593: Is the National Theatre's free outdoor summer festival that place over five weekends outside the National Theatre in its north-east cornersquare. It is accompanied by a number of additional street food stalls and bars run by the NT. The event features programmes developed by various companies for the first four weekends, with the National Theatre itself programming the fifth weekend. Participating organisations have included The Glory, HOME Manchester , Sadler's Wells , nonclassical , WOMAD , Latitude Festival , Bristol's Mayfest and Rambert . The festival launched in 2015 and
4788-472: The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus , it has an open stage and a fan-shaped audience seating area for 1160 people. A "drum revolve" (a five-storey revolving stage section) extends eight metres beneath the stage and is operated by a single staff member. The drum has two rim revolves and two platforms, each of which can carry ten tonnes, facilitating dramatic and fluid scenery changes. Its design ensures that
4914-408: The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus , it has an open stage and a fan-shaped audience seating area for 1160 people. A "drum revolve" (a five-storey revolving stage section) extends eight metres beneath the stage and is operated by a single staff member. The drum has two rim revolves and two platforms, each of which can carry ten tonnes, facilitating dramatic and fluid scenery changes. Its design ensures that
5040-802: The Criterion Theatre , the Royal Court Theatre and Historic Royal Palaces . As a Director adapted by Hytner 2025 Harold Pinter Theatre Hytner is on the Board of Trustees of the Royal Opera House. He is a patron of many organisations including London International Festival of Theatre , HighTide Festival Theatre , the Shakespeare Schools Festival , Dance UK, Action for Children's Arts, Pan Intercultural Arts and Prisoners' Penfriends. He
5166-650: The Royal Academy of Arts . Royal National Theatre The National Theatre , officially the Royal National Theatre and sometimes referred to in international contexts as the National Theatre of Great Britain is a performing arts venue and associated theatre company located in London , England. The NT was founded by the actor Laurence Olivier in 1963, and many well-known actors have performed with it since. The company
Nicholas Hytner - Misplaced Pages Continue
5292-465: The patent theatres , and new plays were subjected to censorship by the Lord Chamberlain's Office . At the same time, there was a burgeoning theatre sector featuring a diet of low melodrama and musical burlesque ; but critics described British theatre as driven by commercialism and a "star" system. There was a demand to commemorate serious theatre, with the "Shakespeare Committee" purchasing
5418-399: The patent theatres , and new plays were subjected to censorship by the Lord Chamberlain's Office . At the same time, there was a burgeoning theatre sector featuring a diet of low melodrama and musical burlesque ; but critics described British theatre as driven by commercialism and a "star" system. There was a demand to commemorate serious theatre, with the "Shakespeare Committee" purchasing
5544-410: The "Royal" prefix to the name of the theatre was given in 1988, but the full title is rarely used. The theatre presents a varied programme, including Shakespeare, other international classic drama, and new plays by contemporary playwrights. Each auditorium in the theatre can run up to three shows in repertoire , thus further widening the number of plays which can be put on during any one season. However,
5670-741: The Circus. The festival was set up by its first producer Jonathan Holloway , who was succeeded in 2005 by Angus MacKechnie. Whilst the Theatre Square space was occupied by the Temporary Theatre during the NT Future redevelopment, the "Watch This Space" festival was suspended. but held a small number of events in nearby local spaces. In 2013 the National announced that there would be a small summer festival entitled "August Outdoors" in Theatre Square. Playing Fridays and Saturdays only,
5796-499: The Circus. The festival was set up by its first producer Jonathan Holloway , who was succeeded in 2005 by Angus MacKechnie. Whilst the Theatre Square space was occupied by the Temporary Theatre during the NT Future redevelopment, the "Watch This Space" festival was suspended. but held a small number of events in nearby local spaces. In 2013 the National announced that there would be a small summer festival entitled "August Outdoors" in Theatre Square. Playing Fridays and Saturdays only,
5922-669: The Head of New Work in 2015. National Theatre Live is an initiative which broadcasts performances of their productions (and from other theatres) to cinemas and arts centres around the world. It began in June 2009 with Helen Mirren in Jean Racine 's Phedre , directed by Nicholas Hytner , in the Lyttelton Theatre. The third season of broadcasts launched on 15 September 2011 with One Man, Two Guvnors with James Corden . This
6048-440: The Head of New Work in 2015. National Theatre Live is an initiative which broadcasts performances of their productions (and from other theatres) to cinemas and arts centres around the world. It began in June 2009 with Helen Mirren in Jean Racine 's Phedre , directed by Nicholas Hytner , in the Lyttelton Theatre. The third season of broadcasts launched on 15 September 2011 with One Man, Two Guvnors with James Corden . This
6174-470: The NT's own artists and staff. One of its spaces is The Cottesloe Room, so called in recognition of the original name of the adjacent theatre. The dressing rooms for all actors are arranged around an internal light-well and air-shaft and so their windows each face each other. This arrangement has led to a tradition whereby, on the opening night (known as "Press Night") and closing night of any individual play, when called to go to "beginners" (opening positions),
6300-470: The NT's own artists and staff. One of its spaces is The Cottesloe Room, so called in recognition of the original name of the adjacent theatre. The dressing rooms for all actors are arranged around an internal light-well and air-shaft and so their windows each face each other. This arrangement has led to a tradition whereby, on the opening night (known as "Press Night") and closing night of any individual play, when called to go to "beginners" (opening positions),
6426-476: The National Theatre Company received a Special Tony Award which was accepted by Olivier at the 23rd Tony Awards . He became a life peer in 1970, for his services to theatre, and stepped down in 1973. Royal National Theatre The National Theatre , officially the Royal National Theatre and sometimes referred to in international contexts as the National Theatre of Great Britain
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#17327652405496552-640: The National Theatre at its formation in 1963. He was considered the foremost British film and stage actor of the period, and became the first director of the Chichester Festival Theatre – there forming the company that would unite with the Old Vic Company to form the National Theatre Company. In addition to directing, he continued to appear in many successful productions, not least as Shylock in The Merchant of Venice . In 1969
6678-435: The National Theatre at its formation in 1963. He was considered the foremost British film and stage actor of the period, and became the first director of the Chichester Festival Theatre – there forming the company that would unite with the Old Vic Company to form the National Theatre Company. In addition to directing, he continued to appear in many successful productions, not least as Shylock in The Merchant of Venice . In 1969
6804-693: The National Theatre at the end of March 2015. In his role as Director of National Theatre, he appeared on the Cultural Exchange as part of the Radio Four programme Front Row , where he chose The Marriage of Figaro by Mozart as his work of art. Hytner and Nick Starr founded the London Theatre Company opening a new 900-seat adaptable commercial theatre, Bridge Theatre near Tower Bridge in October 2017. Hytner directed
6930-548: The National Theatre building, the National Theatre tours productions at theatres across the United Kingdom. The theatre has transferred numerous productions to Broadway and toured some as far as China, Australia and New Zealand. However, touring productions to European cities was suspended in February 2021 over concerns about uncertainty over work permits, additional costs and delays because of Brexit . Permission to add
7056-724: The National Theatre complex which it was estimated would cost about £80 million. The Studio building across the road from the Old Vic on The Cut in Waterloo. The Studio used to house the NT's workshops, but became the National's research and development wing in 1984. The Studio building houses the New Work Department, the Archive, and the NT's Immersive Storytelling Studio. The Studio is a Grade II listed building designed by architects Lyons Israel Ellis. Completed in 1958,
7182-488: The National Theatre complex which it was estimated would cost about £80 million. The Studio building across the road from the Old Vic on The Cut in Waterloo. The Studio used to house the NT's workshops, but became the National's research and development wing in 1984. The Studio building houses the New Work Department, the Archive, and the NT's Immersive Storytelling Studio. The Studio is a Grade II listed building designed by architects Lyons Israel Ellis. Completed in 1958,
7308-525: The National Theatre reported that over half of UK state secondary schools have registered to use the service. On Demand. In Schools won the 2018 Bett Award for Free Digital Content or Open Educational Resources. In March 2020, in light of the coronavirus pandemic, the National Theatre Collection was made available for pupils and teachers to access at home to aid blended learning programmes. In April 2020, six new titles were added to
7434-444: The National Theatre reported that over half of UK state secondary schools have registered to use the service. On Demand. In Schools won the 2018 Bett Award for Free Digital Content or Open Educational Resources. In March 2020, in light of the coronavirus pandemic, the National Theatre Collection was made available for pupils and teachers to access at home to aid blended learning programmes. In April 2020, six new titles were added to
7560-580: The National Theatre's first board chairman, it has a proscenium arch design and can accommodate an audience of 890. Named after Lloyd Dorfman (philanthropist and chairman of Travelex Group ), the Dorfman is "the smallest, the barest and the most potentially flexible of the National Theatre houses . . . a dark-walled room" with an audience capacity of 400. It was formerly known as the Cottesloe Theatre (named after Lord Cottesloe , Chairman of
7686-457: The National Theatre's first board chairman, it has a proscenium arch design and can accommodate an audience of 890. Named after Lloyd Dorfman (philanthropist and chairman of Travelex Group ), the Dorfman is "the smallest, the barest and the most potentially flexible of the National Theatre houses . . . a dark-walled room" with an audience capacity of 400. It was formerly known as the Cottesloe Theatre (named after Lord Cottesloe , Chairman of
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#17327652405497812-465: The National. Hytner has said that this diversity is a consequence of the theatre's direction rather than the motivation for it. "I think our repertoire is more diverse than it's ever been," he said, "and I think that reflects a more diverse society and a more diverse audience. The aim, though, was not to go out and find a diverse audience but for the repertoire to reflect a greater diversity in our culture." He has also said: "The rep[ertoire] should reflect
7938-561: The New Shakespeare Company (now the Royal Shakespeare Company , RSC); then Herbert Beerbohm Tree founded an Academy of Dramatic Art at Her Majesty's Theatre in 1904. This still left the capital without a national theatre. A London Shakespeare League was founded in 1902 to develop a Shakespeare National Theatre and – with the impending tercentenary in 1916 of his death – in 1913 purchased land for
8064-407: The New Shakespeare Company (now the Royal Shakespeare Company , RSC); then Herbert Beerbohm Tree founded an Academy of Dramatic Art at Her Majesty's Theatre in 1904. This still left the capital without a national theatre. A London Shakespeare League was founded in 1902 to develop a Shakespeare National Theatre and – with the impending tercentenary in 1916 of his death – in 1913 purchased land for
8190-550: The New York production, where the show recouped its $ 10.9m investment in 39 weeks. The show, at New York's Broadway Theatre , opened on 11 April 1991 and closed on 28 January 2001 after 4,092 performances. Hytner was on a percentage for both London and New York productions, allowing him (then aged 34) to never need worry about money again. "It was a huge– a massive stroke of fortune," he said in 2010. "It meant that thereafter I only needed to do what I wanted to do." What Hytner did
8316-768: The South Bank Theatre Board), a name which ceased to be used with the theatre's closure under the National's NT Future redevelopment. The enhanced theatre reopened in September 2014 under its new name. The Temporary Theatre, formerly called The Shed, was a 225-seat black box theatre which opened in April 2013 and featured new works; it closed in May 2016, following the refurbishment of the Dorfman Theatre. In 2015 British artist Carl Randall painted
8442-468: The South Bank Theatre Board), a name which ceased to be used with the theatre's closure under the National's NT Future redevelopment. The enhanced theatre reopened in September 2014 under its new name. The Temporary Theatre, formerly called The Shed, was a 225-seat black box theatre which opened in April 2013 and featured new works; it closed in May 2016, following the refurbishment of the Dorfman Theatre. In 2015 British artist Carl Randall painted
8568-570: The UK to create large-scale new work. The first Public Acts production was Pericles in August 2018, at the National Theatre, in the Olivier Theatre. The Guardian described this as 'a richly sung version with brilliant performances from a cast of hundreds.' The second production was As You Like It performed in August 2019 at the Queen's Theatre , Hornchurch. Since 2019, Public Acts has been working on
8694-418: The UK to create large-scale new work. The first Public Acts production was Pericles in August 2018, at the National Theatre, in the Olivier Theatre. The Guardian described this as 'a richly sung version with brilliant performances from a cast of hundreds.' The second production was As You Like It performed in August 2019 at the Queen's Theatre , Hornchurch. Since 2019, Public Acts has been working on
8820-418: The United Kingdom and then internationally. The programme began with a production of Phèdre , starring Helen Mirren , which was screened live in 70 cinemas across the UK. NT Live productions have since been broadcast to over 2,500 venues in 60 countries around the world. In November 2020, National Theatre at Home, a video on demand streaming service, specifically created for National Theatre Live recordings,
8946-628: The United States, Canada and Australia for a limited season in Spring 2012. Danny Boyle 's Frankenstein also returned to cinema screens worldwide for a limited season in June and July 2012. The fourth season of broadcasts commenced on Thursday 6 September 2012 with The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time , a play based on the international best-selling novel by Mark Haddon . This
9072-404: The United States, Canada and Australia for a limited season in Spring 2012. Danny Boyle 's Frankenstein also returned to cinema screens worldwide for a limited season in June and July 2012. The fourth season of broadcasts commenced on Thursday 6 September 2012 with The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time , a play based on the international best-selling novel by Mark Haddon . This
9198-608: The Van (2015). Hytner was knighted in the 2010 New Year Honours for services to drama by Queen Elizabeth II . Hytner was born in the prosperous suburbs of south Manchester in 1956, to barrister Benet Hytner and his wife, Joyce . He is the eldest child of four, and has described his upbringing as being in "a typical Jewish, cultured family". He attended Manchester Grammar School and went to university at Trinity Hall, Cambridge , where he studied English. He did some acting while at university, including co-scripting and performing in
9324-481: The actors will go to the window and drum on the glass with the palms of their hands. Backstage tours run throughout the day and the Sherling High Level Walkway, open daily until 7.30 pm, offers visitors views into the backstage production workshops for set construction and assembly, scenic painting and prop-making. 2013 saw the commencement of the "NT Future" project; a redevelopment of
9450-400: The actors will go to the window and drum on the glass with the palms of their hands. Backstage tours run throughout the day and the Sherling High Level Walkway, open daily until 7.30 pm, offers visitors views into the backstage production workshops for set construction and assembly, scenic painting and prop-making. 2013 saw the commencement of the "NT Future" project; a redevelopment of
9576-521: The amalgamation of the existing publicly supported companies: the RSC, Sadler's Wells and Old Vic . Following some initial inspirational steps taken with the opening of the Chichester Festival Theatre in Chichester in June 1962, the developments in London proceeded. In July 1962, with agreements finally reached, a board was set up to supervise construction, and a separate board was constituted to run
9702-414: The amalgamation of the existing publicly supported companies: the RSC, Sadler's Wells and Old Vic . Following some initial inspirational steps taken with the opening of the Chichester Festival Theatre in Chichester in June 1962, the developments in London proceeded. In July 1962, with agreements finally reached, a board was set up to supervise construction, and a separate board was constituted to run
9828-430: The audience's view is not blocked from any seat, and that the audience is fully visible to actors from the stage's centre. Designed in the 1970s and a prototype of current technology, the drum revolve and a multiple "sky hook" flying system were initially very controversial and required ten years to commission, but seem to have fulfilled the objective of functionality with high productivity. Named after Oliver Lyttelton ,
9954-430: The audience's view is not blocked from any seat, and that the audience is fully visible to actors from the stage's centre. Designed in the 1970s and a prototype of current technology, the drum revolve and a multiple "sky hook" flying system were initially very controversial and required ten years to commission, but seem to have fulfilled the objective of functionality with high productivity. Named after Oliver Lyttelton ,
10080-400: The auditorium. National Theatre Connections is the annual nationwide youth theatre festival run by the National Theatre. The festival was founded in 1995, and features ten new plays for young people written by leading playwrights. Productions are staged by schools and youth groups at their schools and community centres, and at local professional theatre hubs. One of the productions of each play
10206-400: The auditorium. National Theatre Connections is the annual nationwide youth theatre festival run by the National Theatre. The festival was founded in 1995, and features ten new plays for young people written by leading playwrights. Productions are staged by schools and youth groups at their schools and community centres, and at local professional theatre hubs. One of the productions of each play
10332-624: The building was refurbished by architects Haworth Tompkins and reopened in autumn 2007. The National Theatre Studio was founded in 1985 under the directorship of Peter Gill , who ran it until 1990. Laura Collier became Head of the Studio in November 2011, replacing Purni Morrell who headed the Studio from 2006. Following the merge of the Studio and the Literary Department under the leadership of Rufus Norris, Emily McLaughlin became
10458-444: The building was refurbished by architects Haworth Tompkins and reopened in autumn 2007. The National Theatre Studio was founded in 1985 under the directorship of Peter Gill , who ran it until 1990. Laura Collier became Head of the Studio in November 2011, replacing Purni Morrell who headed the Studio from 2006. Following the merge of the Studio and the Literary Department under the leadership of Rufus Norris, Emily McLaughlin became
10584-408: The building. A key intended viewing axis is from Waterloo Bridge at 45 degrees head on to the fly tower of the Olivier Theatre (the largest and highest element of the building) and the steps from ground level. This view is largely obscured now by mature trees along the riverside walk but it can be seen in a more limited way at ground level. The National Theatre's foyers are open to the public, with
10710-408: The building. A key intended viewing axis is from Waterloo Bridge at 45 degrees head on to the fly tower of the Olivier Theatre (the largest and highest element of the building) and the steps from ground level. This view is largely obscured now by mature trees along the riverside walk but it can be seen in a more limited way at ground level. The National Theatre's foyers are open to the public, with
10836-405: The changing needs of theatre artists and audiences. Hytner stated as early as 2010 that he did not wish to stay as head of the National indefinitely, saying, "I've been here seven years. My predecessors have averaged 12. It's important that someone else comes in and shakes it up again so I won't be here in 10 years, that's for sure." In April 2013, he announced that he would step down as Director of
10962-501: The company were Robert Stephens , Maggie Smith , Joan Plowright , Michael Gambon , Derek Jacobi , Lynn Redgrave , Michael Redgrave , Colin Blakely and Frank Finlay . Meanwhile, construction of the permanent theatre proceeded with a design by architects Sir Denys Lasdun and Peter Softley and structural engineers Flint & Neill containing three stages, which opened individually between 1976 and 1977. The construction work
11088-446: The company were Robert Stephens , Maggie Smith , Joan Plowright , Michael Gambon , Derek Jacobi , Lynn Redgrave , Michael Redgrave , Colin Blakely and Frank Finlay . Meanwhile, construction of the permanent theatre proceeded with a design by architects Sir Denys Lasdun and Peter Softley and structural engineers Flint & Neill containing three stages, which opened individually between 1976 and 1977. The construction work
11214-404: The future Charles III described the building in 1988 as "a clever way of building a nuclear power station in the middle of London without anyone objecting". John Betjeman , a man not noted for his enthusiasm for brutalist architecture, wrote to Lasdun stating ironically that he "gasped with delight at the cube of your theatre in the pale blue sky and a glimpse of St Paul's to the south of it. It
11340-404: The future Charles III described the building in 1988 as "a clever way of building a nuclear power station in the middle of London without anyone objecting". John Betjeman , a man not noted for his enthusiasm for brutalist architecture, wrote to Lasdun stating ironically that he "gasped with delight at the cube of your theatre in the pale blue sky and a glimpse of St Paul's to the south of it. It
11466-523: The inaugural production of Young Marx followed by productions such as the hit immersive revivals of William Shakespeare 's Julius Caesar in 2018, A Midsummer Night's Dream in 2019 and Guys and Dolls which ran from March 2023 until January 2025. The London Theatre Company also opened another venue with 59 Productions , The Lightroom in King's Cross, London in February 2023 used for immersive artist-led exhibitions which will also eventually become
11592-492: The lumpiness of neighbouring buildings such as the Hayward Gallery and Queen Elizabeth Hall . It is now in the unusual situation of having appeared simultaneously in the top ten "most popular" and "most hated" London buildings in opinion surveys. A recent lighting scheme illuminating the exterior of the building, in particular the fly towers , has proved very popular, and is one of several positive artistic responses to
11718-428: The lumpiness of neighbouring buildings such as the Hayward Gallery and Queen Elizabeth Hall . It is now in the unusual situation of having appeared simultaneously in the top ten "most popular" and "most hated" London buildings in opinion surveys. A recent lighting scheme illuminating the exterior of the building, in particular the fly towers , has proved very popular, and is one of several positive artistic responses to
11844-637: The outdoor arts sector. Significant collaborators and regular visitors included Teatr Biuro Podrozy, The Whalley Range All Stars, Home Live Art, Addictive TV, Men in Coats, Upswing, Circus Space, Les Grooms, StopGAP Dance Theatre, metro-boulot-dodo, Avanti Display, The Gandinis, Abigail Collins, The World-famous, Ida Barr (Christopher Green), Motionhouse, Mat Ricardo, The Insect Circus, Bängditos Theater, Mimbre, Company FZ, WildWorks, Bash Street Theatre, Markeline, The Chipolatas, The Caravan Gallery, Sienta la Cabeza, Theatre Tuig, Producciones Imperdibles and Mario Queen of
11970-585: The outdoor arts sector. Significant collaborators and regular visitors included Teatr Biuro Podrozy, The Whalley Range All Stars, Home Live Art, Addictive TV, Men in Coats, Upswing, Circus Space, Les Grooms, StopGAP Dance Theatre, metro-boulot-dodo, Avanti Display, The Gandinis, Abigail Collins, The World-famous, Ida Barr (Christopher Green), Motionhouse, Mat Ricardo, The Insect Circus, Bängditos Theater, Mimbre, Company FZ, WildWorks, Bash Street Theatre, Markeline, The Chipolatas, The Caravan Gallery, Sienta la Cabeza, Theatre Tuig, Producciones Imperdibles and Mario Queen of
12096-670: The playwright's birthplace for the nation demonstrating a recognition of the importance of "serious drama". The following year saw more pamphlets on a demand for a National Theatre from London publisher Effingham William Wilson. The situation continued, with a renewed call every decade for a National Theatre. Attention was aroused in 1879 when the Comédie-Française took a residency at the Gaiety Theatre , described in The Times as representing "the highest aristocracy of
12222-485: The playwright's birthplace for the nation demonstrating a recognition of the importance of "serious drama". The following year saw more pamphlets on a demand for a National Theatre from London publisher Effingham William Wilson. The situation continued, with a renewed call every decade for a National Theatre. Attention was aroused in 1879 when the Comédie-Française took a residency at the Gaiety Theatre , described in The Times as representing "the highest aristocracy of
12348-520: The portrait". The style of the National Theatre building was described by architecture historian Mark Girouard as "an aesthetic of broken forms" at the time of opening. Architectural opinion was split at the time of construction. Even enthusiastic advocates of the Modern Movement such as Nikolaus Pevsner found the Béton brut RAAC concrete both inside and out overbearing. Most notoriously,
12474-406: The portrait". The style of the National Theatre building was described by architecture historian Mark Girouard as "an aesthetic of broken forms" at the time of opening. Architectural opinion was split at the time of construction. Even enthusiastic advocates of the Modern Movement such as Nikolaus Pevsner found the Béton brut RAAC concrete both inside and out overbearing. Most notoriously,
12600-444: The post-2020 covid repertoire model became straight runs, required by the imperatives of greater resource efficiency and financial constraint coupled with the preference (and competition for the availability) of creatives working across stage and screen, thus bringing it in line with that of most theatres. In June 2009, the theatre began National Theatre Live (NT Live), a programme of simulcasts of live productions to cinemas, first in
12726-515: The programme included The Sneakers and The Streetlights by Half Human Theatre, The Thinker by Stuff & Things, H2H by Joli Vyann, Screeving by Urban Canvas, Pigeon Poo People by The Natural Theatre Company, Capses by Laitrum, Bang On! , Caravania! by The Bone Ensemble, The Hot Potato Syncopators , Total Eclipse of the Head by Ella Good and Nicki Kent, The Caravan Gallery , Curious Curios by Kazzum Theatre and The Preeners by Canopy. Laurence Olivier became artistic director of
12852-515: The programme included The Sneakers and The Streetlights by Half Human Theatre, The Thinker by Stuff & Things, H2H by Joli Vyann, Screeving by Urban Canvas, Pigeon Poo People by The Natural Theatre Company, Capses by Laitrum, Bang On! , Caravania! by The Bone Ensemble, The Hot Potato Syncopators , Total Eclipse of the Head by Ella Good and Nicki Kent, The Caravan Gallery , Curious Curios by Kazzum Theatre and The Preeners by Canopy. Laurence Olivier became artistic director of
12978-407: The restaurants, bars, bookshop, etc.). Support from Arts Council England provided 17% of income, 1% from Learning and Participation activity, and the remaining 9% came from a mixture of companies, individuals, trusts and foundations. In 1847, a critic using the pseudonym Dramaticus published a pamphlet describing the parlous state of British theatre. Production of serious plays was restricted to
13104-407: The restaurants, bars, bookshop, etc.). Support from Arts Council England provided 17% of income, 1% from Learning and Participation activity, and the remaining 9% came from a mixture of companies, individuals, trusts and foundations. In 1847, a critic using the pseudonym Dramaticus published a pamphlet describing the parlous state of British theatre. Production of serious plays was restricted to
13230-403: The retitled The Madness of King George (1994) became Hytner's film debut. In 1994, Eyre announced he would be leaving the National Theatre in three years' time. "[It] made me begin to think about the vision that is needed in such a position and the fact that this needs refreshing under every directorate. I very much felt that you had to have a big idea in order to put yourself forward for such
13356-573: The service to bring the total up to 30 productions. These include Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (directed by Benedict Andrews for the Young Vic , starring Sienna Miller and Jack O'Connell ) and Small Island (directed by Rufus Norris for the National Theatre). Public Acts is a community participation programme from the National Theatre working with theatres and community organisations across
13482-399: The service to bring the total up to 30 productions. These include Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (directed by Benedict Andrews for the Young Vic , starring Sienna Miller and Jack O'Connell ) and Small Island (directed by Rufus Norris for the National Theatre). Public Acts is a community participation programme from the National Theatre working with theatres and community organisations across
13608-440: The theatre began National Theatre Live (NT Live), a programme of simulcasts of live productions to cinemas, first in the United Kingdom and then internationally. The programme began with a production of Phèdre , starring Helen Mirren , which was screened live in 70 cinemas across the UK. NT Live productions have since been broadcast to over 2,500 venues in 60 countries around the world. In November 2020, National Theatre at Home,
13734-473: The theatre can run up to three shows in repertoire , thus further widening the number of plays which can be put on during any one season. However, the post-2020 covid repertoire model became straight runs, required by the imperatives of greater resource efficiency and financial constraint coupled with the preference (and competition for the availability) of creatives working across stage and screen, thus bringing it in line with that of most theatres. In June 2009,
13860-477: The theatre". The principal demands now coalesced around: a structure in the capital that would form a permanent memorial to Shakespeare; an "exemplary theatre" company producing at the highest level of quality; and a centre from which appreciation of great drama could be spread as part of education throughout the country. The Shakespeare Memorial Theatre was opened in Stratford upon Avon on 23 April 1879, with
13986-421: The theatre". The principal demands now coalesced around: a structure in the capital that would form a permanent memorial to Shakespeare; an "exemplary theatre" company producing at the highest level of quality; and a centre from which appreciation of great drama could be spread as part of education throughout the country. The Shakespeare Memorial Theatre was opened in Stratford upon Avon on 23 April 1879, with
14112-456: The world we're part of, and it should put the society in which we live in the context of the past and, as far as we can, of the wider world." Hytner's latest innovation is NT Future , a £70 million scheme (of which £59 million had been raised at October 2012) to open up the National's building and to contribute to the regeneration of the South Bank , to transform facilities for education and participation, and to keep ahead of new technologies and
14238-468: The world, National Theatre Live , and with its reduced price ticket seasons. These seasons, sponsored by Travelex , have offered large numbers of reduced price seats (for £10 when the scheme was introduced in 2003, with prices rising to £12 from 2011). The reduced price seasons were credited with achieving high usage for the Olivier auditorium – between 90% and 100% full during the summer months compared to
14364-445: Was announced in September 2001. He took over from Nunn in April 2003. Hytner's role as Director of the National involves decisions about what plays are staged. "Essentially what I do is produce 20 shows a year here," he stated in one interview. "To produce as opposed to direct, as I generate the ideas, generate the repertoire. What I do is put together the team that are going to stage the repertoire together then stand back and come in at
14490-648: Was as assistant to Colin Graham at English National Opera . Some of his earliest professional directing work was in opera, including at Kent Opera , Wexford Festival Opera and a production of Rienzi at English National Opera . His first theatre productions were at the Northcott Theatre , Exeter . He then directed a series of productions at the Leeds Playhouse , including The Ruling Class by Peter Barnes , an adaptation of Tom Jones and
14616-465: Was based at The Old Vic theatre in Waterloo until 1976. The current building is located next to the Thames in the South Bank area of central London. In addition to performances at the National Theatre building, the National Theatre tours productions at theatres across the United Kingdom. The theatre has transferred numerous productions to Broadway and toured some as far as China, Australia and New Zealand. However, touring productions to European cities
14742-404: Was carried out by Sir Robert McAlpine . The Company remained at the Old Vic until 1976, when construction of the Olivier was complete. The National Theatre building houses three separate theatres. Additionally, a temporary structure was added in April 2013 and closed in May 2016. Named after the theatre's first artistic director, Laurence Olivier , this is the main auditorium. Modelled on
14868-404: Was carried out by Sir Robert McAlpine . The Company remained at the Old Vic until 1976, when construction of the Olivier was complete. The National Theatre building houses three separate theatres. Additionally, a temporary structure was added in April 2013 and closed in May 2016. Named after the theatre's first artistic director, Laurence Olivier , this is the main auditorium. Modelled on
14994-538: Was elected an Honorary Fellow of Trinity Hall, Cambridge, in 2005, and was Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre at Oxford University in 2000–01. Hytner was knighted in the 2010 New Year Honours for services to drama. In Spring 2014, the Royal Northern College of Music announced it was to confer Honorary Membership of the College upon Hytner. In 2014 he was awarded an Honorary Fellowship of
15120-453: Was followed by Arnold Wesker 's The Kitchen . The final broadcast of 2011 was John Hodge 's Collaborators with Simon Russell Beale . In 2012 Nicholas Wright 's play Travelling Light was broadcast on 9 February, followed by The Comedy of Errors with Lenny Henry on 1 March and She Stoops to Conquer with Katherine Kelly , Steve Pemberton and Sophie Thompson on 29 March. One Man, Two Guvnors returned to cinema screens in
15246-453: Was followed by Arnold Wesker 's The Kitchen . The final broadcast of 2011 was John Hodge 's Collaborators with Simon Russell Beale . In 2012 Nicholas Wright 's play Travelling Light was broadcast on 9 February, followed by The Comedy of Errors with Lenny Henry on 1 March and She Stoops to Conquer with Katherine Kelly , Steve Pemberton and Sophie Thompson on 29 March. One Man, Two Guvnors returned to cinema screens in
15372-563: Was followed by The Last of the Haussmans , a new play by Stephen Beresford starring Julie Walters , Rory Kinnear and Helen McCrory on 11 October 2012. William Shakespeare 's Timon of Athens followed on 1 November 2012 starring Simon Russell Beale as Timon. On 17 January 2013, NT Live broadcast Arthur Wing Pinero 's The Magistrate , with John Lithgow . The performances to be filmed and broadcast are nominated in advance, allowing planned movement of cameras with greater freedom in
15498-506: Was followed by The Last of the Haussmans , a new play by Stephen Beresford starring Julie Walters , Rory Kinnear and Helen McCrory on 11 October 2012. William Shakespeare 's Timon of Athens followed on 1 November 2012 starring Simon Russell Beale as Timon. On 17 January 2013, NT Live broadcast Arthur Wing Pinero 's The Magistrate , with John Lithgow . The performances to be filmed and broadcast are nominated in advance, allowing planned movement of cameras with greater freedom in
15624-400: Was introduced. Videos of plays are added every month, and can be "rented" for temporary viewing, or unlimited recordings can be watched through a monthly or yearly subscription programme. The NT had an annual turnover of approximately £105 million in 2015–16, of which earned income made up 75% (58% from ticket sales, 5% from NT Live and Digital, and 12% from commercial revenue such as in
15750-411: Was suspended in February 2021 over concerns about uncertainty over work permits, additional costs and delays because of Brexit . Permission to add the "Royal" prefix to the name of the theatre was given in 1988, but the full title is rarely used. The theatre presents a varied programme, including Shakespeare, other international classic drama, and new plays by contemporary playwrights. Each auditorium in
15876-429: Was to continue directing theatre and opera, including several productions at London's National Theatre (where he had first directed in 1989 with Ghetto ). In 1990, he was appointed an Associate Director of the National by its then-Director Richard Eyre . One of the plays he directed was Alan Bennett 's The Madness of George III . When a film adaptation was commissioned, Bennett insisted Hytner should direct it, and
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