The Stage: a building in focus

Work on The Stage, a new mixed-use tower located in Shoreditch, is pressing ahead. Back in 2011, archaeologists were undertaking exploratory excavation for The Stage when they came across the remnants of the playwright’s less famous theatre – just three metres below ground level. It’s thought to be one of the UK’s best preserved examples of an Elizabethan theatre, and was also the location for the debut of Romeo & Juliet, almost four centuries ago.

The aptly-named Stage development was originally intended to be (just) another modern East London high rise, equipped with 412 private sale apartments, a state-of-the-art gym and offices, as well as a collection of restaurants, bars and boutiques.

However it was announced earlier this year that the building will now also feature a heritage centre and a sunken amphitheatre, where plays can be performed. Given that this year marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, it’s fitting that the remains are being preserved in this way, transforming the tower into a cultural local landmark for more people to enjoy.