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A right royal refit Glasgow institution gets a makeover
G lasgow’s Theatre Royal is receiving an £11.5m refit in a bid to reinvent the historic theatre space into a world-class hub for national and international shows. The redevelopment of the 19th century building includes plans for a new entrance, foyer and roof garden, as well as new bars, a box office and an education suite.
The plans were announced following news that the Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded a grant of £850,000 to the project. Scottish Opera, who have owned the building since 1974, have been leading the charge for some time. Alex Reedijk, the opera company’s general director, said of the refit: ‘Our vision is to open up the theatre to become a social hub
– somewhere people can gather with friends for great coffee during the day, enjoy outstanding performances, learn about the performing arts and discover the wonderful heritage of this beautiful theatre.’ The Scottish Government, Creative Scotland and Glasgow City Council are among those who have contributed funds to the project; and a public fundraising campaign will be launched to help to raise the remaining amount.
The theatre is likely to close for a three-month period in early 2014, with a view to the space being ready for the Commonwealth Games later that year. We’ll get you more information as we get it. (Anna Millar)
16–23 Aug 2012 THE LIST 93