Full Breakdown
Shaftesbury Theatre to Be Renamed the Judi Dench Theatre in 2027
6/16/2026, 10:06:12 PM
Renaming Announcement
The Shaftesbury Theatre, a Grade II-listed West End venue, will be renamed the Judi Dench Theatre in February 2027, marking the first West End theatre named after an actress.
Historical Context and Key Links
The theatre opened in 1911 as the New Prince’s Theatre, became the Prince’s Theatre in 1914, and was renamed Shaftesbury in 1962 (some sources say 1963). It was the first steel-frame theatre in the West End and remains the only London venue with an opening dome. Dame Judi Dench, a founding member of the Theatre of Comedy, held part shares in the venue during the 1980s-1990s and later collaborated with the owners, the Taffner family, whose production company created the TV series As Time Goes By.
Timeline of Key Dates
1911 – opening as New Prince’s Theatre; 1914 – renamed Prince’s Theatre; 1962/63 – became Shaftesbury Theatre; 1980s-90s – Theatre of Comedy’s shareholding; 1992-2002 – As Time Goes By aired; June 16 2026 – renaming announced; February 2027 – official name change and refurbishment completion.
Data and Statistics
Dench’s seven-decade career includes 1 Academy Award, 1 Tony, 2 Golden Globes, 4 BAFTA TV, 6 BAFTA Film and 7 Olivier Awards. The venue’s dome is the only opening dome in London theatres; refurbishment will restore the dome, redecorate the auditorium, recarpet and upgrade backstage facilities while remaining open.
Significance
The rename highlights the under-representation of women in West End theatre naming and sets a precedent for honoring performers rather than patrons.
Official Statements & Responses
Dench called the honour “truly overwhelming” and stressed that live theatre “continues to be so important as a way of telling stories and entertaining audiences.” Donald Taffner Jr. said the family is “delighted to recognise her extraordinary talent and extensive contribution.” Eleanor Lang said the theatre is “excited” and noted the need to celebrate “brilliant women” in theatre names.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Most sources state the theatre was renamed Shaftesbury in 1962; one source lists 1963. No other contradictions appear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Shaftesbury Theatre has always held a special place in my heart.” — Dame Judi Dench, Actress
- “Live theatre continues to be so important as a way of telling stories and entertaining audiences, something I have aimed to do all my working life.” — Dame Judi Dench, Actress
- “We don't celebrate brilliant women enough in our West End theatre names, so we are delighted that her name will be forever in lights above our doorway.” — Eleanor Lang, Chief Executive, DLT Entertainment
- “Dame Judi has been a close friend of the DLT family for so long, particularly from her involvement with As Time Goes By, and we will always treasure the time she made in her busy schedule to make the programme.” — Donald Taffner Jr., Chairman
