Citizens Theatre company switches venue during £19m redevelopment

For the first time in its 72-year history, Glasgow’s Citizens Theatre will move homes for a £19.4m revamp.

Dominic Hill, the theatres's artistic director, said: "The Citizens Theatre building is about to embark on the biggest changes to its physical structure in its 139-year history.

"This latest stage in our £19.4m redevelopment project presents an exciting opportunity for a number of key landmark cultural organisations to work together in Glasgow.

"Our shared history of innovation and creativity makes it a great opportunity to collaborate with them."

David McDonald, chairman of Glasgow Life, added: "We're delighted to be able to support the transformation of one of Scotland's iconic cultural institutions.

"The Citizens Theatre is rooted in the local community and it is absolutely fitting that while the venue is being refurbished, its ambitious programme of live theatre, creativity and learning, will continue across our venues, inspiring audiences from near and far."

The historic building first opened in 1878, with the Citizens company founded in 1943 by playwright James Bridie, and permanently established in 1945.

The new building has been designed by architectural practice Bennetts Associates.

During the closure, the Citizens will take their productions and classes to a number of different areas across Scotland.

The Glasgow Citizens Theatre is set to re-open in the autumn of 2020 and the first Citizens show to be produced off-site will run at the Tramway theatre in September next year.