Tim Ronalds Architects spent six years working on the restoration of London's Hackney Empire theatre, the most contractually and technically complicated theatre restoration the practice had ever undertaken. So it was rather galling when the first glowing reviews of the reopening production failed to mention the architect. But, as the Guardian theatre critic Michael Billington pointed out, modernisation of historic theatres is a little like a facelift: 'If it's really good, you should hardly notice it.' Designed by Frank Matcham, the Hackney Empire first opened its doors as a music hall in 1901. The biggest challenge for Tim Ronalds was to retain its spirit and atmosphere while installing modern backstage technology and improving the front of house facilities. Matcham's task was to cram as many people into the auditorium as possible while making sure they all had a decent view of the stage. Sightlines and acoustics were excellent, but in his day social segregation meant it was important for people to go directly to their seats rather than mingling in the foyer.
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