In the 1950s, traditional theatres seemed doomed in the face of television, as Royals, Empires and Alhambras across Britain closed and were demolished. Yet this was only half the story, for at the same time small repertory theatres, working in local communities with their own companies of young actors, were flourishing. Their model was the Birmingham Rep, founded in 1913 and where Laurence Olivier, Albert Finney, Julie Christie and many others started their careers. Such was its success that by the 60s it sought a larger building, and turned to Graham Winteringham, a local architect.
The new Rep opened in October 1971. Winteringham, who has died aged 99, brought to central Birmingham the sinuous, rhythmic concrete forms made fashionable by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer – far more inviting than the brutalism found in most British cities. The huge areas of glass illuminate the foyers, an enticing, sparkling sight when lit up from within at night. The interior posed a more difficult brief. Winteringham had to provide 900 seats on a single, egalitarian level while maintaining a sense of intimacy and good sightlines. There were two lobbies for latecomers to watch the show, as well as bars and a cafe that also became popular destinations.
