National applies to keep NT Shed open until 2017; Dorfman delayed til autumn

The National Theatre has applied to keep its temporary NT Shed building until 2017, due in part to delays in the refurbishment of the Dorfman Theatre (formerly the Cottesloe).

The National had been planning to open the Dorfman, the smallest of the venue's three theatres, early this year, but has delayed until the autumn.

It hopes to keep The Shed, currently programmed until July, open for a further three years subject to approval from Lambeth council.

A spokesperson for the National told The Stage it is looking for alternative ways of staging the outdoor Watch This Space season, which has been on hold while the NT Shed is in operation.