An icon of London theater, the Old Vic opened its doors in 1818 as the Royal Coburg Theatre and was the first home of the National Theatre under Laurence Olivier. After a downturn and complete refurbishment in 1985, the theater experienced a revival at the beginning of the 21st century when American actor Kevin Spacey was appointed artistic director. Visitors should expect prominent theater and film actors in lading plays and productions, along with the occasional surprise.