Sheldonian Theatre
The Sheldonian Theatre is the University of Oxford's ceremonial hall on Broad Street, designed by Christopher Wren and used for degree ceremonies, Encaenia and concerts. It was one of Wren's first major buildings, completed in 1669 and paid for by Gilbert Sheldon, Archbishop of Canterbury and former Warden of All Souls.
In practice
Inside, a D-shaped auditorium of tiered seating faces the Chancellor's throne, under a painted ceiling. The University holds matriculation and degree ceremonies there in Latin, and Encaenia every June. In between it is a concert hall: the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra and many visiting ensembles perform there through the year. The heads on pillars along the railings outside, known as the Emperors, are a familiar Oxford landmark.
Why it matters to newcomers
Buying a concert ticket is the easiest way to see the interior; the building also opens for tours, and the cupola gives one of the best views over central Oxford. On ceremony days Broad Street fills with gowns and families, and the building is closed to visitors.
Related
- Encaenia - the ceremony the Sheldonian was built for
- The Bodleian - its neighbour across the yard
- Subfusc - what graduands wear at its ceremonies
Source: University of Oxford: history.