Theatreplan Chosen to Work on the Transformation of the King's Theatre Edinburgh

Theatreplan is thrilled to have been selected to work with architects, Bennetts Associates on the forthcoming transformation of the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh. The architectural designs for the redeveloped theatre were unveiled recently and show a design that retains the majesty of the original building but reimagines it for the 21st century.

The transformational project will preserve and revitalise the King’s Theatre Edinburgh, one of Scotland’s most loved theatres, making it a vibrant, dynamic and accessible cultural destination for generations to come. Theatreplan’s experience working on historic theatres will be invaluable in planning the repair, enhancement and expansion of one of Scotland’s oldest working theatres.

Opened in 1906, The King’s Theatre Edinburgh welcomes over 200,000 visitors every year. An important venue for touring drama, musicals and children’s shows, it is home to Scotland’s biggest Panto production and each year plays a pivotal role in hosting the Edinburgh International Festival. The King’s is one of a handful of Grade A listed theatres in the UK that has still to have a major redevelopment and is the only surviving operational theatre by the architects Swanston and Davidson.

Now 112 years old, the King’s requires major redevelopment to meet the needs of today’s audiences, and today’s performers, and to safeguard it for generations to come. Duncan Hendry, Chief Executive of Capital Theatres said: “The King’s Theatre holds a special place in the hearts of many people from Edinburgh and further afield. The King’s really is ‘Everyone’s Theatre’ and throughout this exciting redevelopment project we hope people will help us secure the future of their theatre. In early 2019 we will provide ways in which people can engage with, give opinion and support the project.”

The ambitious redevelopment project will overhaul the interior and exterior of the theatre to enrich the audience experience and create a renewed sense of destination for the King’s Theatre. Transformation of the King’s will reinvigorate the artistic programme, by providing the facilities to attract the very best productions to the city. The project will cost in the region of £20million.

Mathew Smethurst-Evans, Executive Director UK for Theatreplan said: “Theatreplan is really excited to be part of the team rejuvenating this historic theatre and modernising its facilities to meet the needs of the 21st century. It’s also great to be working with Bennetts Associates again, on this unique theatre space, following on from our current collaboration with them on the Citizens Theatre in Glasgow."

James Nelmes, Associate Director at Bennetts Associates said: “The King’s Theatre has a unique place in the hearts and minds of many Edinburgh residents and is a theatre of national architectural importance. We are delighted to be working with Capital Theatres and Theatreplan to bring it to the next stage.

Image copyright: Bennetts Associates