Short Film Celebrating The Old Vic's Bicentenary Released Into UK Cinemas

As The Old Vic's bicentenary year comes to a close, the celebrations continue with the release of the theatre's first ever short film for cinema. The birthday has been a showcase of all the work that the theatre does, and will continue to do, to entertain and enrich the lives of audiences and communities.

The film was shot on location at The Old Vic and stars Erin Doherty who, following recent stints at the theatre in the critically acclaimed A Christmas Carol and Alan Ayckbourn's The Divide, is soon to be seen as Princess Anne in series 3 of Netflix's The Crown.

Created by advertising agency BBH, the 90-second piece presents the story, essence and attitude of The Old Vic. Entitled 'New Since 1818', Erin plays the sole protagonist embodying the undoubtedly female essence of the 200-year-old building as she muses over memories, social purpose and creative philosophy.

With the support of full service agency AKA, the film will be seen in over 40 cinemas UK wide including Curzon, Everyman and Picturehouse, from this Friday.

The Old Vic is London's independent theatre, a charity in receipt of no regular public subsidy. For two centuries this iconic institution has been a vital part of its local community, whilst also playing a significant role in developing the cultural landscape of the UK. Throughout its history ground-breaking productions, social mobility and inclusion have remained central to its work. In celebrating this significant milestone, the theatre wanted to explore a variety of ways to engage audiences in the life of The Old Vic and this collaboration with BBH, who provided their services for free, offered an exciting opportunity to do so.

About the collaboration, Kate Varah, Executive Director of The Old Vic, said: 'This year has offered a unique opportunity to celebrate the iconoclastic, creative and adventurous spirit of The Old Vic over two centuries. BBH's generosity and passion has helped us to mark this milestone in a film that is accessible and open-hearted - like The Old Vic itself'

Oliver Short, Creative at BBH said: 'The thing that struck me about The Old Vic is that whilst its 200 years old, it's as young and vigorous as a new theatre in terms of what it creates. So, I wanted to embody this in a character. Enter stage left, Erin Doherty'

Watch the film HERE.

For more on The Old Vic's 200th birthday click HERE.