Bristol Old Vic Theatre School Bristol Old Vic Theatre School The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School is a drama school in Bristol, England that provides training in acting for film, television and theatre. It is one of the most prestigious drama schools in the United Kingdom, founded by Laurence Olivier in 1946. The Old Vic Theatre School is an affiliate of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama. Its higher education awards are validated by the University of the West of England, and its students graduate alongside members of UWE Bristol's Faculty of Arts, Creative Industries and Education. The School began life in October 1946, only
Bristol Old Vic until 1963 when their role was taken over by the City Council. In the same year the London Old Vic was disbanded and the Bristol company became fully independent. The Bristol Old Vic also put plays on in the council-owned Little Theatre from then until 1980. A new theatre complex, designed by Peter Moro, was completed in 1972. The 1903 entrance building was demolished, as were a number of surrounding buildings and, more controversially, the stage area of the 1766 theatre. A new stage and fly tower were built along with technical facilities and offices. The 150-seat New Vic studio