Scottish First Minister visits theatre development

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The Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, and the Chairperson of the Citizens Theatre of Glasgow, April Chamberlain, visited a Kier construction site on Friday 6^th September 2019 to officially mark the start of redevelopment of the theatre.

The redevelopment project will cost £21.5M and will last for a period of two years, with the designs for the renovated theatre having been developed by Bennetts Associates while Kier will serve as the contractor responsible for delivering the designs.

The new building will feature improved accessibility, a new bar, café facilities, a new multipurpose 152 seat performance studio, improved rehearsal, learning, and studio spaces.

The First Minister stated: “The Citizens Theatre is more than just a building. Over its 140 years it has hosted performers, welcomed audiences and been a genuine hub for the Gorbals community.

“The Citizens Theatre has a very special place in Scotland’s cultural landscape and I am delighted that, thanks to this joint investment including £4.5m from the Scottish Government, its future has been secured for generations to come.”

The Operations Director of Kier Regional Building Scotland, Sean O’Callaghan added: “We are delighted to mark this important milestone as we begin work to restore, improve and safeguard the prestigious Citizens Theatre for future generations to enjoy. We have a wealth of experience in developing theatre and heritage projects and look forward to turning the vision into reality.

“Importantly, as with all the work we carry out, we will provide jobs for the local community by working with our supply chain to offer a range of diverse employment and training opportunities throughout this landmark project.”

The Chair of the Citizens Theatre, April Chamberlain concluded: “Today is a key milestone in the much-needed redevelopment of the Citizens Theatre. Our iconic home in the heart of the Gorbals is known throughout Scotland and the world over, not just for the theatre we make but for our extensive community and participation work.

“Thanks to the vital support of our funders, the theatre is being secured for theatre-makers, audiences and the people of Glasgow. We can’t wait to move back in and start welcoming them back.”

The category ‘B’ listed building has played hosted to some of the nation’s finest actors over its 140 year history and will be revitalised so it does not fall into disrepair.

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