First look at King’s Theatre brand new curtains as theatre prepares to reopen in two weeks
17 July, Edinburgh: It’s almost time for curtain up at the King’s Theatre as it prepares to reopen in two weeks following its major redevelopment project. The latest footage released by Capital Theatres, the charity which manages the theatre, shows the brand-new red velvet curtains, provided by J & C Joels, being raised above the stage for the very first time.
The historic Edinburgh theatre returns with a special Opening Weekend on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August. People will be able to explore all areas of the building, book behind-the-scenes tours that include stepping onto the new flat stage and find out more about the theatre’s history and the redevelopment project. The King’s Theatre Opening Weekend is free to attend but booking is required to guarantee a slot. Availability is very limited but last-minute slots may become available.
Prior to the Opening Weekend, Capital Theatres is calling upon audiences to help put the newly redeveloped theatre through its paces with a short series of test performances. These special events allow the team to rehearse everything that makes a theatre visit run smoothly, from ticket scanning to wayfinding around the venue and front of house operations. These dress rehearsals include: Frozen Singalong (25 July 2.30pm) a singalong screening of the Disney classic, and Mhairi Black and Kevin Quantum (25 July 7.30pm) for an evening of comedy and magic. Tickets are selling quickly, available at www.capitaltheatres.com.
The King’s Theatre redevelopment project sees this historic venue reimagined for the next 120 years. It will be one of the most accessible heritage buildings in the UK, with new lifts offering level access from street to seat or stage. The new, flat stage and upgraded technical facilities set the scene for a wider range of more ambitious productions than ever before. It will also offer welcoming new public spaces, including a street-level café, a Creative Engagement Studio for workshops, community projects and events, and a range of heritage displays and artefacts bringing the venue’s rich history to life.
