The Ritz had already planned an ambitious programme of refurbishment before the Coronavirus struck. The programme includes replacing the front part of the downstairs auditorium floor, seats, some decorating and new acoustic ceiling panels. This would inevitably have caused some disruption for our audiences. In the circumstances we have been able to bring forward the planned work so that we can complete as much of it as possible before we re-open, thereby causing as little disturbance as possible.
Sean painting – as usual.
Ritz balcony logo.
There is a hole in the ceiling. The chairman is looking into it.
Old ceiling tile and many years dirt – it was better not to be stood underneath them as they came out!
New acoustic ceiling tiles.
In the beginning …
Our new ‘social distancing’ seating plan.
Standing room only.
Not all the underfloor was in very good condition!No going back …
Acoustic ceiling tiles.
Underfloor insulation.
The concrete arrives.
The new concrete floor.
Watching concrete dry…
Only 2 rows of ceiling tiles left to go.
New Kiosk screen.
Carpet down – almost there.
… and then there were seats !One of the 4 new wheelchair spaces.
None of these pictures were taken by Cecil Beaton or David Bailey.
