The Britten Theatre’s simple elegance, responsive acoustics and intimate tiered auditorium is the perfect space for opera, music, theatre and ballet performances. One of South Kensington’s best kept secrets, the theatre is named after Benjamin Britten, a former student of the RCM. It was designed by Sir Hugh Casson in the style of an Italian opera theatre, with a proscenium arch, orchestra pit and counterweight flying system. It boasts a lighting rig of LED fixtures and an additional stock of lighting available to hire.
The Britten Theatre is licensed for public performances. The theatre is in regular use with excellent technical facilities as the thriving RCM Opera Studio’s focus. It hosts various instrumental performances, including a chamber music series and concerts by the RCM Jazz Orchestra. It also benefits from an orchestra pit for 55 musicians, a Steinway grand piano, two dressing rooms, a bar and The Ruth West Foyer.
Seating up to 390, the theatre is an excellent venue for lectures, presentations and conferences. With extensive technical facilities and support from our experienced Britten Theatre technicians and RCM Studios team, the Britten Theatre is the perfect venue for your event.