The Royal Institution’s iconic Theatre in central London is set for a major refurbishment thanks to a grant received from the Wolfson Foundation, it was announced today.
The refurbishment works, scheduled to begin later this year, will revitalise this historic science communication and engagement space, improving accessibility, enhancing the audience experience and maintaining the Ri’s position as a leader in sharing video content worldwide via its YouTube channel with 1.7 million subscribers.
The Ri’s Theatre was first built in 1800 and has been the place where many world-shaping scientific advances have been announced and demonstrated to a public audience for the first time, including the development of the world’s first electric motor by Michael Faraday, the advent of photography by William Henry Fox-Talbot and the discovery of the electron by JJ Thompson.
Today, over 225 years later, the Theatre is central to the Ri’s charitable mission to bring scientists and the public together, hosting around 90 public talks for adults and families each year, as well as the world-famous CHRISTMAS LECTURES®, which are broadcast on UK national television.
Katherine Mathieson, Director of the Ri, said: “The Ri’s rich heritage is synonymous with scientific advance and pioneering public engagement, with our Theatre sitting literally and metaphorically at the heart of both.
“So we are delighted that this invaluable support from the Wolfson Foundation means that this iconic space will be enhanced, for everyone to explore science directly with the scientists and researchers who are making today’s world-shaping discoveries.”
Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive at the Wolfson Foundation, said: “For more than two centuries, the Theatre at the Royal Institution has provided the perfect stage to showcase remarkable science. This refurbishment will equip the Ri to bring the wonders of science to life for generations to come – whether they are seated in the audience in London or watching remotely from around the globe.”
The refurbishment works funded by the Wolfson Foundation will address both technical and aesthetic improvements, ensuring the Theatre continues to inspire audiences for many more centuries, whilst conserving its heritage features:
- Structural and Aesthetic Repairs – redecoration, seat repairs, carpet replacement and the restoration of the lecture theatre desk, which is modelled on the desk used by Michael Faraday for his lectures and demonstrations.
- Accessibility Enhancements – modifications to improve access for disabled visitors, ensuring the space is inclusive for all.
- Hybrid Capabilities – infrastructure improvements for seamless live streaming and video projection, expanding the reach of the Ri’s events to its global audience of over 200 countries.
- Heritage Preservation – restoring the Theatre’s Victorian wallpaper and replacing worn fittings, including the curtains, in keeping with its historic character.
The Ri is now seeking the necessary listed building consents, with works schedule to begin this summer.