The first batch of a special beer brewed by Bath Ales to mark Bristol Old Vic’s 250th birthday has been delivered to the historic theatre.
The 1766 Anniversary Ale will be available throughout this year in bars at the venue – the longest continuously-running theatre in the UK – as it celebrates the milestone.
The Old Vic’s newly appointed commercial director Erick Muzard received the first delivery from Bath Ales area sales manager Alex Hartley.
Mr Muzard said: “It is a hugely exciting time to have joined Bristol Old Vic as it becomes the first British theatre in history to survive 250 years.
“The theatre has a long-standing relationship with Bath Ales and so we had to offer our customers a thirst-quenching way of marking this anniversary with their help. The 1766 Anniversary Ale is being offered at our bar now and will also be available as a special gift pack.”
Alex Hartley added: “We were delighted to be asked to brew a celebratory ale for Bristol Old Vic.
“It’s such a fantastic achievement and we’re pleased to be able to help, in some small way, with this year of celebrations. We hope that people will enjoy the ale and we toast to the 250th birthday and a long and continued partnership with Bristol Old Vic.”
The theatre is marking its 250th birthday with a special anniversary programme of productions throughout the year and a big anniversary weekend of celebrations over the second May Bank holiday weekend (May 28-30).
The Bristol Old Vic’s major redevelopment will ensure the oldest playhouse in the country is fit for a new era. The project will return the Grade I listed Coopers’ Hall to its original 18th-century use as an events space for the city, with the front of house spaces and create a warm and welcoming theatrical and social resource for the whole of Bristol.
When complete, there will be a new entrance foyer, a new studio theatre, modern bar and restaurant facilities and lifts to all floors.
As part of a separate project, the theatre is also set to be transformed into a major heritage destination, bringing its history to life for new audiences. Centuries-old archives will be reinvigorated and displayed to tell the story, not only of the theatre itself but also the part it plays in the country’s wider social and cultural history.
Bath Ales, which has its office, brewery and bottling plant at Warmley, between Bristol and Bath, produces a range of beers including its flagship Gem bitter as well as seasonal and one-off celebratory tipples.
Pictured, from left: Bristol Old Vic commercial director Erick Muzard with Bath Ales area sales manager Alex Hartley. Photo by JonCraig.co.uk
