Our Lord Dean, Andrew McFarlane, was delighted to be invited to attend a site visit at the Citizens Theatre back in December. The famous Gorbals venue is set to reopen later this year following a major refurbishment.  

An expanded courtyard foyer will welcome visitors to the new Citizens, while the original Category B listed sandstone auditorium has been wrapped in a new three-storey building, which includes a 150-seater studio theatre and spaces for set building, costume making and rehearsing. 

‘The Citz’, as it is affectionately known, began life as a working theatre in 1878, with the Citizens Theatre Company making its home there in 1945. They aimed to provide live theatre for city dwellers and to stage new Scottish and international drama. 

The refurbishment project has faced rising costs and delays due to the impact of Brexit, the pandemic, and escalating inflation. With assistance from the national lottery, the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council amongst others, 92% of the funding required has now been secured, but there is still £3.5m to be found. Kate Denby, Chief Executive, has said “I’m struck by the sense of personal ownership so many people have of that building. Now we’re asking the people of Glasgow to help us get over the line.”

The Lord Dean said “It was a privilege to visit the Citizens Theatre and witness first hand the incredible work being done to restore this iconic venue. Both the Merchants House and the Citizens are cornerstones of Glasgow’s rich history, and the revival of ‘The Citz’ is something the entire city can take pride in. I look forward to seeing the theatre reopen its doors and once again welcome audiences from near and far.”

Find out more about the theatre and how you can help here

The Lord Dean (middle) is pictured with Graham Sutherland, Technical Director and Nichol Gray, Development Manager, credit Citizens Theatre

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