Exact date iconic Glasgow venue to reopen after major £30million revamp
IN THE LIMELIGHT Exact date iconic Glasgow venue to reopen after major £30million revamp
AN iconic Glasgow venue is set to reopen next month following a major £30million revamp.
The Citizens Theatre in the Gorbals previously closed in 2018 for a refurbishment, and work was originally planned to take three years.
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The Citizens Theatre is set to reopen next month after seven years
Credit: John Gunion
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The old theatre has undergone a huge £30million revamp
Credit: Getty
But the project faced a series of setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The major revamp of the building, which first opened its doors in 1878, was planned due to it falling into disrepair.
Bosses said it was no longer fit for purpose and wanted to regenerate it for the 21st century, while keeping its unique Victoria charm.
The theatre will boast a new foyer, improved accessibility, a new 150-seater multi-purpose studio theatre.
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There will also be a new bar area and social spaces, with enhanced backstage facilities for performers.
And on August 23, a community-led parade will officially mark the reopening of the theatre after seven years, The Glasgow Times reports.
Everyone is invited to a weekend of free creative workshops, events and behind-the-scenes tours on August 23 and 24.
Bookable events such as workshops, introductory tours and creative session will be available from August 28 to September 5.
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The first production will be Small Acts of Love from September 12 - a major new work about the bonds formed between families on both sides of the Atlantic in the wake of the Pan Am 103 atrocity in Lockerbie.
And in October, the brand new 150-seat Studio Theatre is opened with two productions by the theatre's Participate groups.
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In addition, the theatre's longstanding commitment to its Gorbals neighbours will continue through a new Gorbals Pass giving access to tickets for just £5 for locals with a G5 postcode.
The theatre's Participate director Catrin Evans said: "This homecoming is inspired by our fantastic new building that we know so many people are keen to get inside - but it's also about so much more.
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"It's about reconnecting with our neighbours, welcoming new voices and celebrating creativity itself as a form of community-building.
"We're offering a range of activities so that everyone and anyone can step into the Citizens Theatre, try something new, take themselves on a journey and feel that this space belongs to them.
"Whether it's your first time through the doors or you've been part of the Citz story for years, we can't wait to welcome you home."
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We previously told how there will be a number of road closures around the venue as it prepares to reopen to the public.
As the historic venue gets ready to welcome back audiences, Glasgow City Council has announced several streets will be shut.
The road closures will take place between August 22 and 23.
Gorbals Street will be shut between Ballater Street and Cumberland Street from 3pm on August 22 until 3.30pm on August 23.
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During these hours waiting, loading and unloading will be prohibited.
On August 23, traffic will not be allowed to flow along Gorbals Street between Ballater Street and Cumberland Street from 9am until 3.30pm.
Cleland Street and Cleland Lane will also be closed to vehicles during these hours.
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The major revamp of the building, which first opened its doors in 1878, was planned due to it falling into disrepair
Credit: Alamy
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