Royal Shakespeare Theatre

This is what the new Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon looks like today.

Obviously, it’s in the middle of a re-build. A lot of the original, 1930s façade has been retained with modern additions.

The most obvious of the additions is the viewing tower on the right. It was not in the original design and was added by the architects to make the scheme more welcoming and encourage visitors, even if they are not coming to a performance. You can read the full story of the design here.

VIEWING TOWER OR CAMPANILE?

When I first saw the tower I thought I recognised its shape, next to the theatre. Suddenly it came to me – the tower reminded me of an Italian campanile. In fact one campanile in particular – next to the Duomo in Florence.

Now, this post is at serious risk of sounding highly pretentious but just bear with me.

Florence Duomo and Campanile

This is what Florence Cathedral (Duomo) and bell tower (campanile) looks like. It’s very difficult to get a good view from the front but you get the idea. Better images are here and here (but not Creative Commons).

What I’m wondering is whether or not the architects had this in mind when they proposed the tower. Is there some kind of connection between the two buildings or is it pure coincidence?

There are obviously many connections between the plays of Shakespeare and Italy but what about Shakespeare and Florence? Maybe they had in mind that the RST is like a cathedral to Shakespeare?

If anyone knows anything about this, please put me out of my misery and leave a comment!

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