Floating Theatre

Student: Aslanidou Ioulia
Supervisor: Alexopoulou Alexandra
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Presentation Date: February 2014

This thesis is about the re-design and reuse of the research ship «James Cook RRS». The new proposal addresses hosting an entire troupe in order to promote the Greek culture by touring theatre performances among Mediterranean harbors.

The design is studied in three axes. O first axis focuses on the right movement and accommodation of the crew to all areas of the ship and the second on the hospitality and comfortable accommodation of actors. The third axis focuses on the areas of the theatre (main stage and ancillary areas - workshops, dressing rooms, etc. -), targeting the correct functionality and addressing the ship as a place of fun and entertainment of the public.

The proposal is developed in such a way as not to affect the seaworthiness of the ship. The main theatre is located at the stern and is characterized by its flexible form. It can be used either as a closed or an open stage theatre depending on weather conditions. Additionally, there is the ability to change both the size and the layout of the stage according to the requirements of each cast.

The theatre's facilities can be used during the whole year offering the opportunity to islanders, tourists and foreigners to enjoy the performances in a unique environment. This proposal creates a new way of sensing the theatrical experience.