The Citizens Theatre in Glasgow’s Gorbals is officially reopening on Saturday, August 23, welcoming locals and visitors alike for the first time in around seven years.
Citizen’s Theatre first opened its doors in 1878, and has served as the pinnacle of the community for decades.
On Friday, August 15, the council’s licensing board were briefed on the modernisation of the theatre, which is in need of a new license. What is more, the space is also proposed to be opened to young people, introducing new activities and classes.
Speaking to the board, representative for The Citizens Theatre, Audrey Junner said: “The Citizens Theatre closed in 2018 and has been subjected to extreme refurbishment.
“There have been some delays over the years, but it is due to open next week. It is an amazing facility, and the group wants to make the theatre more accessible while retaining the features it already has.
“We want the opportunity to modernise the theatre moving forward but the current licence does not give them the flexibility to do so. We have applied for changes to the licence. We want to add more seating to the side and in front of the theatre. This would be covered by CCTV, and staff would cover the area while it is in use.
“We want to accommodate more young people into the theatre for lots of different reasons, for example, activities, lessons and classes. We don’t have a restaurant, but there is a large space on the first floor that would serve as a function area.”
Questions were raised about potential soundproofing of the building and measures taken to ensure nearby residents are not disturbed. Councillor Dan Hutchison said: “Could you tell us about the terrace. There are residents who will live close to the terrace, but is there any soundproofing in place?”
Kate Denby, executive director, said: “The terrace is on the south side of the building, and there is a wall between the terrace and the street. It will be more of a performance space for when a performance starts outside and then moves indoors. It would allow creativity.”