The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has named Shakespeare North Trust and Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council as 2024 Client of the Year winner for their ambitious community regeneration project Shakespeare North in Prescot.

The project, by Helm Architecture with executive architects Austin-Smith:Lord, was completed in 2022 for Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council. The Playhouse has been lauded for its dedication to promoting ‘learning, experimentation, and reinterpretation of Shakespeare.’ Situated in Prescot’s Conservation area, the building features a main auditorium, a studio theatre, a dramatic performance garden, a public piazza, learning spaces, and foyers that house a café and bar.

Stephanie Macdonald, Founding Director, 6a Architects, said: “Pursuing cultural excellence and local needs with equal ambition, Shakespeare North has successfully revitalized the community, transforming one of England’s most deprived boroughs and making Prescot a new cultural destination in the UK. By inviting the local youth theatre group as the main resident at the outset, and appointing 30 community coordinators, they fostered genuine engagement and addressed the needs of the wider region. 3000 people attended the opening parade with floats from each community group.”

Congratulations to everyone involved!

You can find more information on the project here: https://www.austinsmithlord.com/projects/shakespeare-north-prescot/

https://www.architecture.com/awards-and-competitions-landing-page/awards/riba-client-of-the-year