Sheldonian Theatre

University of Oxford, Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AZ
Tel: (01865) 277299 Fax: (01865) 277295 Email: custodian@sheldon.ox.ac.uk

The Sheldonian Theatre was erected in 1664-8 to a design by Sir Christopher Wren (1632-1723) from funds donated by Gilbert Sheldon (1598-1677), who during his long career held office as Warden of All Souls Bishop of London and Archbishop of Canterbury and was elected as Chancellor of the University of Oxford. In 1994 the Theatre was described by the European Commission as "one of the architectural jewels of Oxford". Its purpose was to provide an appropriate secular venue for the principal meetings and public ceremonies of the University, and this remains its purpose today.

However, in addition to being a functional building of the University of Oxford, it is made available for hire to those who wish to promote recitals of serious music and other similar functions. It is also open as circumstances allow to those who wish to visit the building for its historical, architectural and contemporary interest.

More specifically, the Sheldonian Theatre is available for hire by conference organisers who wish either to hold larger gatherings than can be managed comfortably in a single college or who wish to take advantage of its architectural attractions.

The seating capacity is up to 1,000 for conferences and 800 for concerts and there is a substantial floor area for presentational material. Although the theatre does not have all the features which may be required for business sessions, it has been used successfully for formal opening or closing meetings. It is also eminently suited for musical entertainments for prestige conferences, for which it has experienced staff.

Should you wish to use the theatre for these or other purposes, Ms Maggie Burge at the Theatre will be pleased to talk to you.

Tickets for concerts and other events are not available from the Sheldonian Theatre, but are available from the Oxford Playhouse.

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