The Swan Theatre is joined to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre

Originally, the theatre company wanted to demolish its main theatre, built in the 1930s, but changed its mind.

Now, architects have designed a stage which will 'thrust' itself into the audience who will sit around it, rather than in front of it.

Plans for the renovation have met opposition from some residents.

A recent survey showed most residents and theatre-goers felt the RSC building was too isolated and unwelcoming and supported a new design.