On 18th March 2020, The Old Vic said 'Goodbye for now', taking the heart-breaking decision to close its doors to the public for the first time since 1950. COVID19 was sweeping across the UK and the world, and life as we knew it was changing. For the arts, this was disastrous. For a sector that at its core is participation, collaboration and bringing people together, The Old Vic and the arts sector has been stifled in its ability to perform—leaving a hole in the heart of its staff, partners, supporters, and friends for what would feel like the inevitable.
However, despite the restrictions and ongoing closure to the public, the amazing team that makes up this world-famous theatre's heart has kept her beating with creative and innovative solutions. The result - an entire creative digital arts, engagement and support programme, all of course with The Old Vic's stamp of inspiration and wonder. With community at the heart of its inception, the team remained committed to that connection with its public. The ground-breaking OLD VIC: IN CAMERA series launched very early into the pandemic in June2020. Since then, it has streamed live productions into 100,000 homes in 92 different countries, donated thousands of free tickets to schools and care homes and created jobs for over 270 freelance artists.
Thanks to the generous support of donations and grants from friends and trustees of The Old Vic, the 'Schools Club' project and 'Education Hub' were able to move online. Providing school children with free theatre tickets, workshops, and educational resources, reaching over 40,000 people. This is all testament to The Old Vic's desire to continue to perform and its passion for ensuring that even when the cogs are forced to stop turning, everyone still gets access to learn, engage, and enjoy art.
At Southbank Tower, we are privileged to have a relationship with this inspiring and community-driven institute. Residents of the tower receive free priority booking to the theatre's events, including the latest OLD VIC: IN CAMERA performance of 'Dr. Seuss's The Lorax.'
This unique relationship will also include intimate and bespoke events curated by The Old Vic and hosted within Southbank Tower when restrictions allow. This will be open to all residents—such a special way to bring theatre into your home.
Of course, our location on London's South Bank means The Old Vic is your neighbour, along with a wealth of culture at your doorstep. A short stroll from your door along the River Thames will bring you to many of London's most recognised cultural landmarks. Inside our spacious luxury apartments, you can, of course, admire breath-taking London views in all our Premier and Armani/Casa Collection apartments. If you want to support and explore all London has to offer, Southbank Tower will make a perfect home.
Photos courtesy of Manuel Harlan
