The Aldwych Theatre

TQ 3081 SE CITY OF WESTMINSTER ALDWYCH, WC2 60/20 (North side)

20.7.71 The Aldwych Theatre

G.V. II

Theatre. 1905 by W.G.R. Sprague. Portland stone faced, concealed roof. Lively Free classicism of vaguely Beaux Arts derivation, part of the Aldwych-Kingsway development and designed as a reverse pair to the Strand Theatre q.v. flanking the Waldorf hotel q.v. in a symmetrical composition. 4 storeys and attic storey. Identical 3-window wide elevations to Aldwych and Drury Lane, linked by inset, bowed, 2-window wide corner entrance pavilion. Ground and 1st floors treated as rusticated podium with entrance to corner under canopy returned to both fronts. Arcaded 1st floor windows. Above 1st floor cornices rises a giant engaged Ionic order embracing the 2nd and 3rd floors with the 2nd floor windows treated as steep pedimented Venetian windows. Tall attic storey above main entablature fronted to Aldwych and Drury Lane by applied pediments, attic cornice and blocking course surmounted by ball finials. Generous use of high and low-relief statuary groups, swags, pendants and reverse scrolls. Each pedimented attic carries statuary group on die. Drury Lane facade continued as lower red brick wing with stone dressings. Interior has semi-elliptical vestibule; C.17 style, stuccoed, 2-storeyed foyer with gallery and top 1st staircase rising in one flight and returning in 2. Elegant auditorium in Beaux Arts Dixhuitieme with 2 cantilevered balconies and ceiling with coffered dome; stucco work expresses classical superimposition of 3 orders with finely executed pendants, trophies, be-ribboned wreaths etc.; tiers of boxes flanking proscenium etc..

The Theatres of London; Mander and Mitchenson.

Listing NGR: TQ3063481027