The Rotherhithe Shaft was originally built by legendary engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel to function as the starting point for London's Thames Tunnel; now, the shaft is set to be converted into a spectacular underground theater. The shaft has been sealed from the public in recent times, but will soon be accessible to the public in its exciting new avatar.
The redevelopment is being carried out by Tate Harmer architects, who describe the new venue as having "smoke-blackened brick walls from steam trains" and providing "a raw but atmospheric backdrop."
Indeed this smoke-blackened underground shaft is sure to provide a spectacular atmosphere for musical performances in a darkly pleasant contrast from the glitzy, over-the-top venues many musicians perform in these days.
Subterranean Theaters
The Rotherhithe Shaft is Being Incorporated Into an Underground Theater
Trend Themes
1. Underground Venues - The rise of subterranean theaters indicates a trend towards unique, unconventional and experiential performance options.
2. Heritage Revitalization - The conversion of historical sites like the Rotherhithe Shaft into contemporary creative spaces creates opportunities for re-purposing aging infrastructure.
3. Raw Aesthetics - An increasing interest in industrial-style architecture indicates a trend towards raw, gritty aesthetics that embrace the beauty of the functional.
Industry Implications
1. Entertainment - The entertainment industry can explore new event locations that offer experiential, unique performance opportunities.
2. Tourism - Developing underground tourist attractions can attract visitors interested in exploring London's historical and architectural heritage, and contribute to the local economy.
3. Architecture - Architects and designers have an opportunity to incorporate industrial and raw aesthetics in unconventional creative transformation projects to breathe new life into decaying historical sites and structures.