The theatre has defended the closure programme

The theatre will close for 16 months from August to allow a �7m revamp. The theatre's artistic director will leave in June and redundancies are expected.

David Farr, who left in 2005, said he was "disappointed" with the decision.

But chairman Rupert Rhymes said: "We have every intention of being back in operation as soon as possible."

'Autumn programme'

He added: "We've just had a boost of �1m. We are still �2m short but that is a great fillip to the fundraising effort.

"We needed to do something about the poor heating and the uncomfortable seats."

David Farr added: "They have lost their artistic director. They have cancelled an autumn programme rich in quality.

"One of the shows they cancelled, Rough Crossings was already in a brochure and on sale.

"None of this instils in me any great confidence that the board have taken this significant decision with the assuredness and composure essential for a successful refurbishment to take place."

Two theatre groups - ACTA and Show of Strength - also expressed their disappointment at the plans.

The Bristol Old Vic said it took every step to contact all theatre companies contracted in the autumn 2007 season, and apologised that ACTA had found out about the closure through the media.

The building will get new seats, new air conditioning, disabled lifts and better stage visibility after the stalls are lifted.

The refurbishment work will also include structural work on the grade one listed building, and will "address electrical and plumbing issues".