Funky Venues

Venue Review

Character: State-of-the-art contemporary blank canvas

Funky Features: Statuesque Unicorn, purpose-built building designed by Keith Williams Architects, adjustable lighting and seating, fully equipped and highly adaptable theatres with the latest technology, unique and quirkily titled versatile spaces, foyer adorned with Speeltheater Holland Company’s artwork, UK’s flagship theatre for young people, views over Tooley Street

Location and History

Located on the south bank of the Thames, close to Tower Bridge and a short walk from London Bridge station.

In 2000 Keith Williams Architects won the commission to design the new Unicorn Theatre, and the following year the Arts Council awarded the project £4.5 million.  The Unicorn create their own productions and host visits by some of the world’s great theatre companies for young people. The Unicorn Theatre stages over 620 performances a year, along with a wide range of special events, workshops and other theatre activities, including three youth theatre groups with a mid-summer performance produced by those taking part.

Spaces for Hire and Interior

As you approach the purpose-built, contemporary, state-of-the-art building, the large unicorn in the window – originally only built as a Christmas decoration – let’s you know you have reached your destination.

All rooms at the Unicorn are named after people and foundations who have made generous contributions. As you walk through the glass doors you find yourself in the Dana Broccoli Foyer with the Frizzante Café to one side and the statuesque unicorn on the other. The foyer shows clean and modern architecture at its best, currently decorated with Speeltheater Holland Company’s artwork, featuring fun but formidable puppets. This area provides the perfect environment for a drinks reception for 200 people.

The Judi Dench Rehearsal Room can hold 40-60 people and provides a blank canvas that is flexible to your individual requirements. The Foyle Studio gives a similar space at the front of house overlooking Tooley Street, and holds 30-35 people depending on how you organise the space.

The Westorn Theatre has pew-style seating that can seat 320 young children and up to 250 adults, depending on the seating arrangements. The theatre is adaptable to accommodate your specifications, and includes seating that emerges from under the floor. Seating can also be brought in from the Clore Theatre along with adjustable lighting.

The Clore Theatre also presents a versatile space, where seating can be completely removed whilst continuing to be a fully equipped theatre. This is an ideal space to transform into anything your imagination desires, perfect for any event or function.

The theatre has been used previously for award ceremonies, launches and book signings, but can be tailored for many more occasions.