Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre is a Grade II listed theatre overlooking the River Wey in Guildford. The original building, designed by Scott Brownrigg and Turner Architects opened in 1965 and is characterised by its circular auditorium and unusual horseshoe shape.

Reed Watts are working with the theatre’s team to modernise and upgrade the front of house spaces, incorporating new accessible facilities and improving the appearance and distinctiveness of the theatre’s foyers, restaurant and bars. A new lift serving all floors, and new inclusive facilities will allow more people to enjoy the building.

The project supports the theatre’s creative learning and engagement programme with a new multipurpose community space on the third floor.  Improvement to acoustics throughout the building will enable foyer spaces to be used more intensively for different activities alongside performances in the main auditorium.

The scope of work encompasses not just aesthetic improvements but also addresses the building’s energy efficiency. Outdated equipment is to be replaced, and a careful de-silting process will help to reveal the architectural spirit of the original structure.

Work starts on site in July 2024 and will be carried out over seven phases to minimise the impact on the theatre’s operations. The theatre will be fully functional apart in but 2 of the phases.