Cockpit Theatre, Marylebone, Theatre venue in Marylebone, England
The Cockpit Theatre in Marylebone is a flexible performance space with retractable seating on all sides surrounding a central acting area of approximately 6.6 by 8.6 meters. The configuration can be adjusted to support different staging styles, allowing productions to use thrust or in-the-round layouts depending on their needs.
Built between 1969 and 1970 as a purpose-built facility, it was London's first theatre in the round following the Great Fire. This design innovation allowed productions to create a closer relationship between audience and performers.
The venue hosts monthly rehearsed readings and experimental productions that support emerging playwrights and performing artists. It serves as a space where contemporary theatre makers can develop and present work that might not find a home elsewhere.
The venue is situated near Edgware Road Underground station and offers between 180 and 240 seats depending on the staging configuration chosen for each production. Visitors should note that the flexible nature of the space means the layout may differ from one visit to another.
Between 1971 and 1972, London Weekend Television recorded a series of music performances in multiple genres at the venue. This period shows how the theatre's innovative design appealed beyond traditional stage productions.
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