Sohoplace: New West End Theatre Inspired by Ancient Epidaurus

A new theatre named @Sohoplace will open in autumn 2023 at the intersection of Charing Cross Road and Tottenham Court Road in London's West End, replacing a former office building next to the demolished Astoria Theatre site. The 300 million pound ($360 million) regeneration project is led by property investment firm Derwent London. The 602-seat venue, designed by London-based architecture firm AHMM, features an auditorium inspired by the ancient Greek theatre of Epidaurus, with crystal star lights arranged in constellations. Nica Burns, CEO of Nimax Theatres which will operate the venue, says the interior reflects the colors of Epidaurus. Construction began in 2019 and faced delays from the pandemic and Brexit-related shortages of imported materials. The stage can be reconfigured for different productions, and the rehearsal room can transform into a bar. A 17-by-3-meter digital screen on Charing Cross Road and a smaller screen on Soho Place will display the programme. Ticket prices are expected to be capped at £65-70, targeting a young audience. The theatre's main challenge was achieving perfect acoustics without vibrations due to its location above a tube station.