‘ Proud’ local theatre celebrates 50 years of entertaining people
A‘ PROUD’ local theatre is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a new programme of events and shows.
Eastwood Park Theatre in Giffnock first opened its doors on January 8, 1973 and delivered a live performance of The Schoolmistress by the Giffnock Players’ Club.
On the same date 50 years later, popular children’s entertainers The McDougalls presented a live stage show to mark the occasion.
It comes as the theatre is gearing up to host a variety of events as part of its ‘ golden anniversary’ programme.
Ryan Moir, who is the co- founder of The McDougalls and plays Max in the show, said: “Eastwood Park Theatre is a very special place to us.
“It was one of the first theatres The McDougalls visited and even through lockdowns the theatre was so supportive of us – inviting us along to stream performances for families and schools. And it has always been our go- to location for filming McDougalls videos!
“The auditorium is perfect for children’s shows. Everyone gets a great view of the stage, and audiences are some of the best in the country! We see the same families come back time and time again.
“The staff are always so welcoming too. For 50 years it has served its community, and we’re so proud to be a tiny part of that history.”
In the past, Eastwood Park has hosted sell- out performances from well- known music acts such as Marti Pellow and Eddi Reader and attracts comedians such as Janey Godley and Dom Joly.
To continue the 50th anniversary celebrations, visitors can expect a packed schedule. Football legend Gordon Strachan will share stories of his career with Scotland, Celtic and more in a special Q& A evening later this month, while Black Sabbath keyboardist Adam Wakeman will join Damian Wilson in a UK tour.
Four of the country’s top comedians – Graham Mackie, Chris Forbes, Cubby and Raymond Mearns – will perform a gig on April Fool’s Day, and Josie Long brings her new show to the theatre in June. Meanwhile, Eastwood Park will also screen films that were first released in 1973, such as Disney’s Robin Hood and The Way We Were, and Royal Opera House screenings including The Barber of Seville, and Royal Ballet screenings including Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty.
For youngsters, live shows coming to the theatre this year include Singing Kettles Silly Songs, Children’s Classic Concerts and CBeebies podcast star Nick Cope will also perform in a sell- out performance.
Anthony McReavy from East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure said: “We’re very proud to celebrate 50 years of Eastwood Park Theatre bringing entertainment to our local community. We have a fantastic programme of events lined up to mark this special occasion, with a range of shows for all ages.
“We also have more exciting performances up our sleeves so keep an eye on our social media for special announcements.”
The team at the theatre have also been working to improve accessibility for all, inviting community groups to shows with support from Creative Scotland funding and hosting British Sign Language performances.