SUCCESSION star Brian Cox says it is “essential” to protect an iconic Edinburgh theatre, as he revealed details of its long-awaited redevelopment.
The actor is an honorary patron of the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh, which is undergoing a major refurbishment to secure its future.
He narrates a video flythrough digital animation of how the theatre will look when the work is finished.
The redevelopment has been hit by rising costs and, despite a large fundraising campaign, a further £1.5 million is needed to see it to completion.
READ MORE: Subscribe from JUST £24 for ONE year of The National
Cox said: “The King’s is vital to the Scottish theatre ecology and a key touring venue which brings a variety of genres to the central belt; not to mention a source of comfort and joy in panto season.
“It is now undergoing an exciting redevelopment, bringing her into the 21st century, addressing access problems, and preserving her future as a beating cultural heart for generations to come.
“It’s essential that we do these works now to protect one of Edinburgh’s historic gems.
“Please support the King’s Future today.”
The redevelopment will see a new cafe created in the Tollcross theatre, as well as new bars and improved seating.
It is expected to cost £35.6m altogether with reopening expected in the summer of 2025.
The council-owned venue is run by the charity Capital Theatres.
Chief executive Fiona Gibson said: “Now the project is under way it’s hugely inspiring to watch the flythrough which hints at the vital new life the redevelopment will bring to our beloved King’s Theatre.
“The cafe will open up the building by day for the local community of Tollcross; the improved access will make it a truly democratic space; there’ll be greater comfort and excellent hospitality; an inspirational creative engagement space; and a stage to welcome an even greater variety of performances.
“We’re incredibly grateful for so much support and there’s still lots of opportunities to support the King’s Future and be part of its rejuvenation.”
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here