DEMOLITION UNDER WAY AT PERTH THEATRE

As construction continues on the restoration and redevelopment of Perth Theatre, demolition work has begun to make way for the new extension. The three storey extension adjacent to the B-listed Edwardian auditorium will contain new foyer space, restaurant, bars, new 200-seat studio theatre, community room and lift to all floors. The demolition will expose the original auditorium wall, constructed in 1899-1900, which will be retained as a feature of the redeveloped space. The historic auditorium will be meticulously restored as part of the Transform Perth Theatre project. Features such as walls, plasterwork, seating, flooring and lighting will be repaired and replaced and the original decorative interior of the theatre with walls predominantly red and mouldings accented in cream and gold will be replicated. The upper circle ‘gods’ will be reinstated and a new orchestra area will be created. Magnus Linklater, chair of Horsecross Arts, the creative organisation behind Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre said: “We are delighted to see work starting on our new theatre. The demolition work at the back of the building has begun -- and it is here that our exciting new premises, with space for community programmes, as well as our new studio theatre, will emerge. The much-loved auditorium will, of course, remain, and will be completely refurbished, with the upper circle, which has remained unused for so long, brought back to life. Gary Bushnell, chief executive of project development company hub East Central Scotland said: “Excellent early progress has been made in the demolition phase of the redevelopment plan and we look forward to managing the project to its successful completion in 2017, creating a unique cultural venue that will continue to play a key role in the community.” Perth & Kinross Council Leader and Project Board Chair Councillor Ian Miller said: “The transformation of Perth Theatre is a key part of the Council’s aim to develop a cultural quarter for Perth City Centre so it is very exciting to see first-hand the start of work on this major project. On completion the Theatre will be ready for many more years of entertaining and enthralling audiences of all ages and interests.” Kevin Dickson, regional managing director of project contractors Robertson Tayside said: “Work to transform Perth Theatre is well underway and we are delighted to be redeveloping the historic building.”