This beautiful image of the theatre frontage was painted by local artist John Stops, and is believed to be one of only two watercolours he ever painted of the building. Believed to have been produced in 1985, the painting bears John Stops’ name upon the number plate of the classic car in the foreground.

Interestingly, though the styling of the car and gentlemen’s fashion suggest a pre-war setting, the building adjoining the Coopers’ Hall is clearly our current frontage, which wasn’t built until the early 1970’s.

In March 2009, the painting was acquired by Sally Bennett, a keen supporter of both Bristol Old Vic and the Appeal. She has kindly donated the painting to us for public display.

We are all immensely grateful to Sally for her continued generosity, and are delighted to hang this beautiful picture proudly in the foyer for all our patrons, visitors and staff to enjoy.