Judi Dench, Lesley Manville, and Mayor of London Lord Khan of Tooting joined National Theatre Co-Chief Executives Indhu Rubasingham and Kate Varah today to launch 50 Stories for 50 Years, a public installation celebrating half a century of the NT's iconic South Bank building.
They were accompanied by Chair of the NT Board Sir Damon Buffini alongside Ilan Bankes and Joe Hutchings, two newly appointed apprentices selected from over 700 applicants for a new engineering scheme named after the building's original architect, Sir Denys Lasdun.
Installed outside the venue on the Queen’s Walk, the free physical and digital exhibition features an amphitheatre-inspired wooden structure designed by La Cuarta Piel. Visitors are invited to sit and listen to audio recordings sharing backstage memories, hidden traditions, and personal stories from prominent figures including Dench, Manville, Hugh Jackman, Lucian Msamati, and David Oyelowo, alongside contributions from staff, builders, and audiences. Global audiences can also access the archive digitally via the free Bloomberg Connects app.
Recalling her own experiences, Judi Dench shared a story of pre-show calm playfully disrupted by a fellow actor, while Lesley Manville reflected on the unexpected joy of returning to the NT stage after a ten-year hiatus.
NT Director Indhu Rubasingham highlighted the enduring societal importance of the venue, noting that theatre remains one of the few places where people gather collectively to embrace complexity and shared experiences. Executive Director Kate Varah emphasized that the National Theatre generates £241 million for the UK economy annually, with a third of that impact felt outside London, underscoring the vital need for continued investment in its working infrastructure.
Mayor of London Lord Khan commended the milestone, praising the institution's commitment to nurturing future technical talent through the Denys Lasdun Apprenticeship scheme. Supported by Arup and Sir Robert McAlpine, the installation honors the Grade II listed brutalist landmark built between 1969 and 1976, ensuring its legacy continues for future generations.
