The Citizens Theatre in Glasgow has been awarded a further £3.5
million from the Scottish Government to complete the end stage of
a seven-year redevelopment process.
The funding will cover the final costs associated with the
extensive refurbishment of the building which has been home to
the theatre since 1945 – taking the total Scottish Government
contribution for the theatre's development to £17.5 million.
The theatre re-opened in August 2025, following seven years of
work to modernise the building, which originally opened as Her
Majesty's Theatre in 1878.
Culture Secretary said:
“As well as being the main producing theatre for audiences in the
west of Scotland, Citizens Theatre is a significant national
asset for the theatre sector, providing regular employment for
around 120 staff across creative, technical, front of house and
administrative roles.
“This latest funding, covering the final costs of the seven-year
refurbishment, takes total Scottish Government investment in the
theatre's development to £17.5 million, underlining our
recognition of the Citizens' importance for the Gorbals, for
Glasgow, and the wider theatre sector.”
Alison Newtown, Chair of the Citizens Theatre Board said:
“We are deeply grateful to the Scottish Government for this
crucial funding that allows us to complete our building
redevelopment project. With our funders support, we have
delivered a transformed, accessible theatre building, deeply
rooted in the many communities that it serves.
“Glasgow has welcomed us back with open arms – with more than
50,000 people through our doors since we reopened last year. Our
funders have been steadfast in their commitment to the project
and this final intervention by the Scottish Government was the
last step in the journey.
“With an exciting season of work ahead, we will continue to
deliver artistic excellence for and with our communities as part
of Scotland's rich and internationally renowned cultural offer.”
Background
Read more about the re-development project on the Citizens Theatre website.
