Sadler's Wells
SADLER’S WELLS
For over three centuries Sadler's Wells has been a well-loved feature of London’s theatrical life, constantly evolving in response to cultural change. As the new millennium approached, it underwent its most complete and exciting transformation with the rebuilding of the 6th theatre on the site.
Sadler's Wells is a landmark in theatre design, with the world-class facilities needed to place London on the touring circuits of leading national and international companies. Typically there are around 40 different companies performing each year with seasons lasting from a few days to three or four weeks. Britain’s premier venue for touring dance, opera and music theatre, we nevertheless retain the Sadler's Wells’ tradition of accessibility to the widest possible public. The adventurous, wide-ranging programme with tickets at affordable prices attracts an audience of over quarter of a million people a year.
In addition, the entire complex is designed to provide excellent access and facilities for people with disabilities, whether as members of the audience, performers or staff. The new complex comprises a main auditorium (1,570 seats); the Lillian Baylis Theatre (200 seats); three rehearsals studios; dressing rooms for over 100 artists; a lecture theatre (80 seats) and break out rooms; bars, a café, facilities for private and corporate entertaining and offices for Sadler’s Wells’ staff.
Sadler's Wells, which has been built on the original, historic site in Islington, opened in October 1998.
Our second theatre, the Peacock Theatre is subject to a unique agreement where Sadler’s Wells and the London School of Economics jointly manage it, with the LSE presenting lectures to students during the day and Sadler’s Wells presenting theatre at night. The Peacock Theatre is Sadler’s Wells’ home in the West End and provides an income stream for the Company as well as the opportunity to develop audiences.
The management of the three theatres is done jointly by the various departments, based at the Sadler’s Wells, Rosebery Avenue site. Other departments of the business include IT, Finance’ Events and Conferencing, Community and Education and Fund Raising, besides the usual departments, Box Office, Facility Management, Press, and Marketing.
Date Published: 19/06/09