Theatre By The Lake

The Theatre by the Lake replaced the mobile Century Theatre (3081) – also known as the Blue Box because of the colour of its donated gloss paint – which settled by the lake when its M.O.T. ran out. It was designed to make the least possible impact on its scenic setting largely concealed by trees and deliberately makes no architectural statement. Built of rubble stone in a muted light brown colour with pitched slate roofs. The auditorium, with retractable stalls block, balcony and side slips in a simple painted steel framework accommodates 400, but it can also work in-the-round, long traverse etc. and as a flat-floored hall, necessitating visible gantries, walk-ways and lighting positions. The proscenium is plain and demountable. Backstage there are four dressing rooms, and office space and accommodation for a resident company. The foyer spaces are light and airy, enjoy beautiful scenic views and include two art galleries, a tribute wall by engraver Andy Irvine, furniture made from common hardwoods of Cumbria, and sculptures by William Pyn and others, not to mention an audio-visual presentation of Cumbria. Since opening, a studio accommodating 100 has been created from what was intended to be a rehearsal room to promote opportunities for new directors, designers etc. A new café opened in 2016 with views across Derwentwater. Built in timber and glass, it has been designed to contrast with the more traditional stone lines of the theatre. At its heart is a large open stone hearth which will allow the space to be used in the winter for community activities, performances and readings.