Appraisal

The Cambridge Theatre

Listed grade II, The Cambridge Theatre was designed by Wimperis, Simpson and Guthrie and completed in 1930. The interiors were designed by Serge Chermayeff. The elevation to Earlham Street comprises an elegant, stripped classical Portland Stone façade of seven bays with a further, slightly recessed, single bay adjacent to the splayed corner fronting The Dials. There is a similarly elegant, striped classical Portland Stone façade to Mercer Street. The upper floors of the eastern end of the elevation to Earlham Street are faced in warm red brick and are of utilitarian character. The design of the theatre was favourably received at the time of the opening, when it was thought to be very 'modern'.

Both the interior and exterior of the theatre have been restored, but there is still scope for improvement in the external signage – the tall hoarding facing the Seven Dials column and long, internally-illuminated box signs carried around the edge on the ground floor canopy in particular detract from the special interest and significance of the theatre and the appearance of this part of the Seven Dials Conservation Area. The original signs were composed of individual Art Deco letters outlined in red neon tubing.

A listed building of particular special architectural and historic interest, contributing to the character, appearance and significance of Seven Dials Conservation Area.

Thought should be given to a coherent re-design of all the external signs and lighting on this building which would greatly improve the appearance of the listed building and the area.

The metal window frames and the doors were originally painted Cambridge Blue in allusion to the theatre's name. It would be a good idea to revive this feature in place of the present black and white paint.