Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

The Belgrade Theatre in Coventry stands as a beacon of cultural and historical significance, offering a rich tapestry of performances and architectural splendor. This iconic venue, distinguished as the first civic theatre to be built in Britain after the Second World War, is not just a place for theatrical performances but a testament to Coventry’s resilience and innovative spirit.

The Birth of the Belgrade Theatre

Amidst the rapid growth of Coventry between the World Wars, the city faced the challenge of overcrowded medieval streets. The devastation of the Coventry Blitz provided an unexpected opportunity for a new vision. In 1938, Donald Gibson was appointed as the first city architect, aiming to redesign the city centre. Although Gibson resigned in 1955, his successor, Arthur Ling, took on the challenge and brought the vision of the Belgrade Theatre to life.

Plans for the theatre began in 1952, with a unique international touch: Coventry’s twin city, Belgrade in Yugoslavia (now Serbia), pledged a gift of beech timber for the new theatre. This gesture of goodwill is immortalized in the theatre’s name. The Belgrade Theatre officially opened its doors on March 27, 1958, with a grand ceremony attended by notable figures, including the Duchess of Kent.

A Hub for Theatrical Innovation

Under the direction of Bryan Bailey, the theatre’s first director, the Belgrade Theatre quickly established a resident company and became a pioneer in the Theatre in Education (TiE) movement. One of its early projects, Pow Wow, encouraged children to engage with and make decisions about characters in a narrative, blending education with interactive theatre in a way that had never been seen before.

Throughout the 1960s, the Belgrade Theatre continued to push boundaries, producing the premieres of Arnold Wesker’s influential Wesker trilogy. This commitment to innovative and educational theatre has remained a cornerstone of the Belgrade’s mission, earning it a revered place in the history of British theatre.

Modern Transformations

The Belgrade Theatre has undergone several transformations to maintain its status as a premier performance venue. In the 1980s and 1990s, it received various grants for maintenance and renovation. However, the most significant refurbishment came as part of Coventry’s Millennium project. Closed in 2006 for extensive building work, the theatre reopened in 2007 after a £14 million renovation, which included the addition of a new performance space known as the B2 studio. This new space was inaugurated by Prince Edward in 2008, marking the theatre’s 50th anniversary.

In 2021, a further capital project expanded and upgraded the theatre’s facilities, seamlessly incorporating an adjacent shop into the theatre’s footprint. This project, completed despite the challenges of the pandemic, added a stylish café and a glamorous new first-floor bar named 1958, enhancing the theatre’s appeal as a social and cultural hub.

Coventry’s Cultural Heartbeat

The Belgrade Theatre played a significant role in Coventry’s successful bid to become the UK City of Culture 2021. Led by Artistic Director Hamish Glen, the theatre was at the forefront of the city’s cultural celebrations, hosting a variety of events and performances that showcased the diverse and vibrant spirit of Coventry.

Three co-artistic directors, Justine Themen, Corey Campbell, and Balisha Karra, were appointed to oversee the theatre’s producing programme for the City of Culture year. Their leadership provided a platform for a new generation of creative talent, ensuring that diverse voices were at the heart of the theatre’s productions. The Belgrade Theatre’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation was further highlighted by the appointment of producers Sâmir Bhamra and Krysztina Winkel, who praised the theatre for its dedication to diverse storytelling.

Architectural Marvel

The design of the Belgrade Theatre reflects a blend of post-war modernism and thoughtful urban planning. The south-east elevation, with its arcade of shopfronts and brick-clad block of flats for visiting actors, echoes the design of Gibson’s Broadgate House. The north-east elevation, facing Belgrade Square, features a striking combination of Portland stone and glass, creating a modern and inviting façade.

Inside, the auditorium is paneled with the beech timber gifted by Belgrade, creating an intimate and acoustically excellent space for performances. The 2008 extension, designed by Stanton Williams, added a seven-storey block with a 300-seat auditorium and additional rehearsal space, winning a RIBA National award for its innovative design.

Belgrade Square: A Vibrant Public Space

Belgrade Square, located adjacent to the theatre, is a lively public space featuring a fountain with rectangular stepped pools and two notable sculptures. The square serves as a gathering place for theatre-goers and locals alike, enhancing the theatre’s role as a community focal point.

One of the sculptures, A Memorial to Bryan Bailey, commemorates the theatre’s first director, who tragically died in a car crash in 1960. Created by Norelle Keddie in 1962 and recast in bronze in 2008, the sculpture stands as a tribute to Bailey’s pioneering spirit. Another sculpture, Two Sides of a Woman by Helaine Blumenfeld, acquired by Coventry City in 1986, adds an artistic touch to the square’s landscape.

A Beacon for the Arts

Managed by the Belgrade Theatre Trust, a registered charity, the theatre remains dedicated to promoting education and the arts. The trust’s objectives include producing educational plays and encouraging artistic expression, ensuring that the Belgrade Theatre continues to be a vibrant and essential part of Coventry’s cultural landscape.

With its rich history, commitment to innovation, and role as a cultural hub, the Belgrade Theatre is more than just a performance venue. It is a symbol of Coventry’s resilience, creativity, and community spirit, making it a must-visit destination for theatre enthusiasts and tourists alike.