Sam Wanamaker Playhouse

Value:

£5m

Timescale:

42 weeks

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts.”

-William Shakespeare

Sam Wanamaker Playhouse interior with multiple seating levels, ornate woodwork, chandeliers, and classical architectural elements. Large decorative panels on either side feature statues or figures, contributing to the warm and elegant atmosphere.

Virtus partnered with The Shakespeare’s Globe to remodel the main foyer and construct the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. As a result, the project brought a significant addition to one of London’s most celebrated cultural destinations. Furthermore, the team helped deliver the first theatre of its kind to be built in over 400 years using traditional construction techniques.

Alongside the new theatre, we completely refurbished and reconfigured the existing foyer to accommodate increased visitor numbers. In addition, we installed specialist acoustic ceilings and wall panelling to achieve effective acoustic separation between the foyer and theatre spaces. Consequently, the refurbished environment enhances both operational performance and the visitor experience.

The theatre sits on London’s busy South Bank, surrounded by residential properties, restaurants, bars, museums, and other attractions. Therefore, stakeholder management remained a key priority throughout the programme. To minimise disruption, we carefully planned deliveries, coordinated site activities, and maintained close communication with neighbouring occupiers.

Meanwhile, the location attracted substantial tourist footfall throughout construction. As a result, we implemented considerate construction practices and adapted our operations to suit the surrounding environment. Throughout the project, our team balanced programme demands with the needs of visitors, residents, and local businesses.

Ultimately, this heritage refurbishment and theatre construction project demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship, technical expertise, and careful project management can come together to create a landmark cultural venue that will serve future generations.

Project Gallery

Sam Wanamaker Playhouse interior with wooden paneling, side balconies, and multiple chandeliers. A large, intricately designed central door is flanked by decorative panels and columns, creating a dramatic focal point.

A cozy café bar area with a stylish design, featuring a wooden counter and shelves stocked with coffee and pastries. Two people are engaged in conversation in front of the counter, while another person is seated at a table in the background. The space has exposed brick walls and modern lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Modern interior space featuring wooden benches, a staircase with black panels, glass railing, exposed brick walls, and white columns. The design combines industrial and contemporary architectural elements.

Awards and Accreditations

We are committed to being recognised as a modern forward thinking construction company and realise the importance of meeting the standards and expectations of our customers and in recognition of this we are members of Constructionline and CHAS, whilst also having accreditation under ISO9001 & ISO1400.