Details

by Patrick Dillon

The National Theatre is a London landmark. Much-criticised when it opened, Denys Lasdun's NT is now recognised one of the great British buildings of the mid-twentieth century.

Writer and architect Patrick Dillon, who led the recent regeneration for Haworth Tompkins architects, describes the National Theatre’s painful genesis and long design-process, illuminates the architecture, and explains his own passion for the building.

Designed by artist Jake Tilson and profusely illustrated, Concrete Reality is the story of how a mid-century masterpiece was made.

Help Us Support Theatre

Every purchase you make from the National Theatre Bookshop helps fund the vital work of The National Theatre. Whether that's putting new work on stages across the world or supporting our outreach and learning programmes, every purchase you make really does make a difference.

Editorial content

We Recommend

Our staff are insightful and knowledgeable, many of them work as actors, artists and playwrights. Have a look at what they recommend this month and see if you can find your next piece of inspiration.

National Theatre Gifts

Our exclusive National Theatre gifts will be sure to add a smile to their recipient. Whether a budding playwright, a natural performer or a National Theatre super fan there is something for everyone.

Subscriptions

Give the gift of reading. Our experienced booksellers hand select, wrap and post a beautiful book to you every month. With Plays, Fiction or Poetry you can delight in making the words come to life in your hands.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Signup for our newsletter to stay up to date on sales and events.

*By completing this form you're signing up to receive our emails and can unsubscribe at any time