Remember 1920? Leith Theatre stands as a testament to a significant moment in Edinburgh’s history. This is Leith Theatre.
Following the forced merger of Leith into Edinburgh, the people of Edinburgh gifted this theatre to the people of Leith. Construction began in 1929. It opened its doors in 1932.
Bradshaw Gass and Hope designed this classical facade. Cream sandstone ashlar makes up its exterior. Imagine the excitement of opening night.
However, the theatre’s story isn’t without its challenges. During the Second World War, in 1941, a bomb badly damaged the Leith Theatre. It remained closed for twenty years.
The Leith Theatre finally reopened in 1961. It became a key venue for the Edinburgh International Festival. The world’s greatest musicians graced its stage.
Think of the Amadeus Quartet. Picture Janet Baker singing. Envision legendary instrumentalists like Jacqueline du Pré performing here.
The Leith Theatre also hosted famous pop artists and bands. AC/DC and Thin Lizzy rocked this very stage. Yuri Lyubimov, a legendary director, also used the stage.
Unfortunately, the Leith Theatre closed again in 1988. It faced threats of residential development. But the community rallied.
The Leith Theatre Trust formed in 2004. Their goal was to save and reopen the theatre. They secured a lease from Edinburgh Council in 2016.
In May 2017, after 25 years of silence, the Leith Theatre opened for the Hidden Door arts festival. 13,000 people attended. This event showcased its potential.
The Leith Theatre has also played a vital role in the local community. It served as a venue for NHS blood donations and supported food banks.
Leith Theatre Trust launched “Live in Leith” in April 2021. It is a series of live music broadcasts featuring emerging Scottish talent.
Leith Theatre’s main auditorium has a capacity of 1,500. The Thomas Morton Hall, also part of the complex, holds 200.
The Leith Theatre Trust signed a 50-year lease in early 2025. The organization gained stability to progress the project to renovate and revive the theatre.
The Theatres Trust has placed Leith Theatre on its Theatres at Risk Register since 2016. The Trust gave Leith Theatre Trust a grant of 11,000 in May 2020.
The Leith Theatre Trust received an initial grant of 250k to develop its capital refurbishment plans in close collaboration with The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Today, the Leith Theatre stands as a symbol of resilience and community spirit. It is a reminder of Leith’s identity. The Leith Theatre is a cultural hub for future generations.