Performing arts theater, Art center, Art gallery, Conference center, Event venue, Exhibition and trade center, Library, Live music venue, Movie theater, Tourist attraction
Barbican Centre
Theatre, concerts, cinema, art and a library share one Brutalist complex, set among the Barbican Estate's raised walkways, water features and a conservatory where Japanese koi swim.
The story
A landmark of Brutalist architecture, the centre is woven into the Grade II-listed Barbican Estate and tied to its surroundings by bridges, ramps and the elevated High Walks. Inside, the layout is maze-like. Architecture tours of about an hour and a half explain the concrete forms, courtyards and planting, and a scale model of the complex stands outside the shop. The programme covers theatre, dance, classical and contemporary music, film and art, and many installations are free. The concert hall has fine acoustics, while the theatre has roomy seats and lettered pillars that make finding your way easy. In Cinema 1, purple lighting sets the mood. A library, Barbican Kitchen, a bar and grill and a cinema café round out the complex.
Good to know
TAGGG AI- ✦Architecture tours are timed at about 90 minutes but often run longer, since guides take time to answer questions.
- ✦In the theatre, seats a few rows back give a better view of wide stage scenes and the screens above the stage.
Plan your visit
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