Hampstead Theatre's "Name-a-Seat" campaign will be officially launched by Lindsay Duncan at a special reception on 6th September. The campaign is part of the theatre's continuing efforts to raise funds for it's spectacular new building, which is expected to open in late 2002. Supporters can name a seat in the new theatre for a cost of £3,000 or £1,500 depending on the seat's location. Funds from the campaign will go towards the theatre's partnership funding target of £5 million, which adds to the total £15.6 million cost of the development.

Designed by British architects Bennetts Associates, the new Hampstead Theatre will house an elliptical auditorium with a flexible space, which can extend up to a 325-seat capacity. It will also house a large space for its education and community work, as well as an elegant bar and café.

—by Theatrenow