Day 5: 15 August 2019 Exploring Aberdeen

His Majesty’s Theatre

It is the largest theatre in north-east Scotland, seating more than 1,400. The theatre is sited on Rosemount Viaduct, opposite the city’s Union Terrace Gardens. It was designed by Frank Matcham and opened in 1906.

The granite-clad theatre is the brainchild of Robert Arthur, of Glasgow, who started his group of theatres in the 1880s focusing on Her Majesty`s Theatre, Dundee, and others in England. His plans for Rosemount Viaduct were submitted to Aberdeen City Council in 1901, construction started in 1904, and completed in 1906.

Aberdeen City Council bought the theatre in 1975, the Council duly allocating £3.5 million to ensure the building’s survival. After 23 months of closure the theatre was reopened in 1982 by Prince Charles. After a National Lottery grant was awarded in 1999, the theatre was the subject of a refurbishment and extension. The refurbishment and new glass-fronted box office, café and restaurant was designed by esteemed Aberdeen City Council architect Trevor Smith. The auditorium and public areas were completely refurbished and new seats were installed. Backstage facilities were also upgraded. The refurbishment went on to win several awards.

Thank you very much for taking the time to join me on my travels through Scotland. I hope you enjoyed it just as much as I did.

Till next time, safe travels and keep dreaming.

Have a fabulous day.

Coreen

Reference:

His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen Wikipedia