A backstage look at Aberdeen's performing arts venues
Recent renovations, improvements and alterations to the local performing arts venues have energised Aberdeen’s performing arts community. In our latest blog, we take a backstage look at a few of these important buildings.
Tivoli Theatre
Founded in 1872, Tivoli Theatre was originally known as Her Majesty’s Theatre. In 1897, the structure underwent reconstruction by theatrical architect Frank Matcham who reopened the theatre as the Tivoli of Varieties in 1910.
In its prime, the theatre hosted world famous performers including Charlie Chaplin, Stan Laurel and W.C Fields. From 1966 the grand auditorium was used as a bingo hall but slowly deteriorated into a desolate condition.
As one of Scotland’s most historic buildings, it was restored in 2009 and given a new lease of life. The Grade A listed auditorium has been restored to its original grandeur and is an intimate, yet elegant forum for theatrical performances.
His Majesty’s Theatre
Another famous Frank Matcham designed Aberdeen theatre is His Majesty’s Theatre - one of two in the world which hold this name. This venue opened in 1906 and to mark its 100th birthday in 2006, was twinned with His Majesty’s Theatre in Perth, Australia, over 9,000 miles away.
Performing in this particular auditorium has been descried by comedy legend Billy Connolly as “playing a gig inside a wedding cake!” - With four levels and a capacity of 1,491, the auditorium brings the best of entertainment to Aberdeen, with musicals such as Wicked and Dirty Dancing taking centre stage. The theatre is also home to Scottish Ballet and Scottish Opera when they perform in the North East.
After receiving a National Lottery grant in 1999, the theatre underwent a major refurbishment and was extended to include a new box office, café and restaurant, designed by City Architect Trevor Smith.
The Music Hall Aberdeen
Currently under renovation, the 200-year-old Music Hall is undergoing a major transformation, which commenced in 2016.
The project is being funded by charity donations and has raised over £6m. The Grade A listed building will feature a new studio, café, bar and lifts, making all levels accessible. These additions along with the upgrading of the original hall will modernise the venue, making it the perfect place for performers and audiences, alike. According to Aberdeen Performing Arts’ website, The Music Hall is expected to reopen in December 2018.
The building was originally known as the County Assembly Rooms, designed by Archibald Simpson who won an architectural competition to design the building. This opened in 1822 and in 1858, plans were put forward to extend the structure to include a Music Hall, designed by renowned architect James Matthews. Over the years, the building has played host to a variety of stars, from Charles Dickens to local singer Emeli Sande. It was also the first place to screen moving pictures in Aberdeen.
Aberdeen Arts Centre
As the name suggests the Aberdeen Arts centre is focused on art and culture and identifies itself as a ‘community arts venue’. A smaller auditorium, which holds 350 people, makes for a more intimate setting to enjoy some of the best theatrical entertainment, with state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment. Multiple rehearsal rooms, gallery space and the cafe allow for a variety of events and workshops to take place, all supported by the hard work of around 80 volunteers.
For those who have caught the acting bug, this organisation hosts adult and youth theatre schools, open to all. The venue also provides affordable exhibiting space for artists to display their work.
Which of these Aberdeen venues is your favourite?