National Theatre's 50 Stories for 50 Years

The National Theatre is commemorating five decades at its South Bank location with a significant public art event. This free outdoor installation, titled 'Stories Start Here: 50 Stories for 50 Years,' is set to open on the Queen's Walk in October 2026. It aims to honor the building's history by presenting 50 unique stories.

The installation's design, a wooden structure echoing the amphitheater seating of the Olivier Theatre, will face the main building. It invites visitors to engage with the theatre's legacy by listening to anecdotes and reflections from a diverse group of individuals. These include actors, writers, directors, designers, staff, and audience members, past and present.

Adding a modern touch, a story station within the theatre will provide visitors with a tangible memento – their chosen story printed on eco-friendly paper. Furthermore, all recorded stories will transcend geographical boundaries, becoming accessible globally via the Bloomberg Connects app, ensuring the National Theatre's rich history can be explored by anyone, anywhere.