The Aldwych Theatre was built by Seymour Hicks and in conjunction with Charles Frohman- an American impresario.  The design of the Aldwych Theatre was by WGR Sprague and was finally completed in December 1905.  An Impressive painted Act Drop was used until the 1930s and the Theatre still retains much of its original charm- although refurbishments have meant the lower stage blocks were removed and the Gallery became part of the upper Circle.  A redevelopment scheme put the Theatre’s existence under question in 1958 and again in 1959.  It wasn’t until 1960 that the Theatre was finally saved after it was taken over by the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre as their headquarters for the next three years.  During this period a new apron stage was built at a cost of more than £75,000.