Dramatic progress at theatre New £16.6m refurbishment on course for an autumn opening

Perth Theatre’s £16.6m transformation is continuing apace with the target of reopening this autumn.

The Perthshire Advertiser was invited to see inside the building which is having a dramatic makeover and restoration of its historic surrounds.

Gavin Johnston, head of productions, was on hand for the tour.

He said: “What an asset this complex will be.

“Other than swim or ice skate here, there’s really nothing the new Perth Theatre can’t be used for, virtually any set up is a possibility.”

In the Grade B-listed auditorium the plasterwork and gilded motifs are really striking.

Artist’s impression of the theatre’s new entrance on Mill Street

With the seats out there is currently an illusion that the elegant curved opera house is smaller in scale than remembered, but from the stage it is a visually stunning scene looking upwards, as for the first time in years, the Gods have been brought back as a place for the public to sit and view the action.

The many levels of Perth Theatre complex are linked by lifts and stairs. A wide open space where all areas open on an internal courtyard will be lit from above and glass, steel and red brick create a striking vista even at this skeletal stage.

The public will enter mainly by a new wide entrance of sliding glass off Mill Street.

With disabled access made a priority in the new design, wheelchairs and those with mobility issues arrive on the flat and can be dropped off by car right at the door.

For the first time wheelchairs will be accommodated in the dress circle, and head of production, Gavin Johnston explained that while they won’t be able to sit in the Gods due to fire evacuation concerns, there are now “ten times as many accessible seating options” for disabled people.

The Perth Panto, Aladdin staged this December will be the first opportunity for the public to come in and experience it. Restoration and refurbishment is progressing at Perth Theatre, and (inset) Gavin Johnston, Head of Productions