Swan Theatre

The Swan Theatre is a theatre building in Stratford-upon-Avon with a stage that extends into the auditorium, surrounded by a gallery of seating. The space holds about 450 people and creates a close connection between performers and audience members throughout the room.

The theatre opened in 1986 within a building that had previously housed the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre, destroyed by fire in 1926. The rebuild on this site marked a return to an important cultural location with a new purpose.

The theatre's name references a bird long celebrated in Elizabethan literature as a symbol of grace and beauty. Visitors experience the building as part of a broader artistic tradition that honors both Shakespeare and the creative voices of his time.

Visitors share facilities with the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in the same building, including a box office, restaurant, and bars for food and drinks. Wheelchair-accessible areas are available throughout the building to accommodate all guests.

The theatre underwent major renovations in 2023, featuring wider seats with armrests for increased comfort for guests. The space above was converted into the Ashcroft Room and now serves as a dedicated rehearsal area.

Location: Stratford-upon-Avon

Inception: 1986

Architects: Michael Reardon

Official opening: 1986

Capacity: 450

Website: https://rsc.org.uk/your-visit/swan-theatre

GPS coordinates: 52.19027,-1.70414

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03