Bristol Old Vic
The Bristol Old Vic is a theatre company based at the Theatre Royal, King Street, in Bristol. The complex includes the 1766 Theatre Royal, which claims to be the oldest continually-operating theatre in England, along with a 1970s studio theatre (the New Vic), offices and backstage facilities. Since the 1972 rebuild, it also incorporates the eighteenth-century Coopers' Hall as its foyer. The entire complex has been Grade 1 listed since December 2000.
The theatre was closed from 2007-8, due to the need for a major refurbishment. It re-opened in December 2008 for one year; and will then close for refurbishment, which is planned to be completed by 2012. During the closure of the King Street premises, the company will relocate to other premises in central Bristol
Cornish King Mark is at war; he rules with his head not his heart. But he hasn’t counted on falling head over heels for his enemy’s sister, or expected the arrival of the enigmatic Tristan.
This critically acclaimed production catapulted Kneehigh onto the national stage. This is the original tale of forbidden desires, broken hearts and the agony of choosing one human being over another. Seen through the eyes of the 'Unloved', Tristan & Yseult blends comedy, live music, grand passion and tender truths, in an irresistible night of love.
Way back in 2003, right here in Bristol Old Vic's Studio, a festival of physical, visual and experimental theatre was born. It was christened Mayfest and from its early days set out to celebrate artists making unusual, playful and leftfield theatre. After a few years of incubation in its birthplace Mayfest began to stretch its legs and stride boisterously around the city and since 2008 it hasn't looked back.
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Having last worked together on the internationally acclaimed War Horse, Bristol Old Vic's Artistic Director Tom Morris and Cape Town's Handspring Puppet Company reunite to begin a new journey in Bristol.
