1958 – Design for Abbey Theatre, Dublin

Design by Michael Scott and M. Pierre Sonrel, SADG, of Paris for the Abbey Theatre published in 1958. This was expected to be the finalised scheme but it continued to be worked on – facade treatment and internal plans differ considerably from constructed theatre. This plan has a roof garden and a sunken garden with that. The theory behind this plan is expressed in the following extracts from a report made by the architects:

“This project, from the point of view of the theatre, gives every guarantee of functioning well, and one can even state that this building should be classified among those prototype buildings which serve as examples for others. Despite the multiple restrictions which made the solution of the project most arduous—among which the lack of space on the site must be placed first—the general plan and layout are most logical and judicious. The auditorium and the public part of the theatre will produce an impression of intimacy and of that dramatic communion which is essential. The layout of the stage and technical areas, due to their flexibility will permit the staging of productions of varied character under the best conditions. The work of the theatre personnel will be facilitated by the practical planning of the premises.

‘As for the actors, they will have comfortable and hygienic dressing rooms for their work, and adequate, well-lit rest-rooms during off-stage periods. Finally, it should be particularly noted that the completion of this study results in a most economical plan. No seating space is lost, no superfluous luxury encumbers the running of the theatre with unnecessary expense. The perfectly rational structure does not comport any exceptional or burdensome feature. On the whole, all the solutions which haye been adopted are economical. In conclusion, we feel that we can give a very favourable opinion on the project as it now stands.”

The Foyer: The task of designing the foyer in the limited depth available, so as to create an atmosphere of pleasant circulation and at the same time allowing simple control, has been achieved by a system of open stairways connecting the foyers, bar and balcony with promenades which run into side walls of auditorium, giving pleasant access to the various entrances to stalls and balcony and at the same time linking all freely together. For easy management one bar only has been provided at intermediate level between balcony and stalls. From all the perambulatory spaces, one is always aware of the auditorium which they serve. The rear wall of the auditorium is exposed in this foyer and forms the dominant feature from which all balconies and promenades radiate. The vertical unfolding of space will more than adequately compensate for the lack of depth.

The Auditorium: This has been designed to accommodate 606 persons, 402 seats in stalls and 204 seats in balcony. This number is slightly greater than the old theatre but is considered a minimum for economical management. The floor of the auditorium has been stepped to allow perfect sightlines from all seats, with steppings increasing towards rear of auditorium. The balcony steppings are designed to allow complete view of forestage. Provision has been made for the extension of the forestage when required. The balcony has been brought through to the Proscenium by the use of loges stepping down to a height of 7 ft. 6 above stage level. The President’s box is at this level and has been designed to allow direct communication with actors and public.

The Stage: The stage area has been treated on traditional lines and is adequate for productions of varied character. The scene docks and workshops are all conveniently placed to stageblock with direct access through open air lobbies to lighting galleries and fly galleries. The entire ceiling space over Auditorium has been utilised for stage lighting, which also allows for complete coverage of the extended forestage. This gallery communicates with projection room and fly gallery, facilitating simple control of all lighting areas. The projection room is approached through open air lobbies allowing its use for cinematographic displays.

‘The Peacock’: The project includes two different sized theatres, the ‘Peacock’ being used for experimental productions. As these theatres cannot overlap on plan, the ‘Peacock’ has been designed under the ’Abbey’ foyer and is provided with full stage facilities and adjustable forestage. The auditorium seats 156 persons and can function quite independently of the Abbey Theatre, having its own entrance from Abbey-street, dressing rooms, management arrangements and prop stores.

The Actors: Dressing rooms have been designed to accommodate four persons or as single rooms with convenient access to stage rehearsal areas and wardrobes. Lift and staircase from dressing rooms open direct into actors’ waiting area immediately off the stage proper. A ‘green room’ and ancillary rest rooms have been provided on the top floor grouped around a roof garden.

The Management: Offices for administrative staff are provided on top floor and approached by a separate staircase independent of the theatre, while communication is possible from office suite to all parts of the house for control of technical staff.