UPDATE: Glasgow’s historic King’s Theatre has just secured approval for a new lease, marking a significant step toward attracting larger productions and major investments. The Glasgow City Council greenlighted negotiations on October 19, 2023, which could lead to substantial capital injections needed to modernize the venue.
The iconic theatre, located on Bath Street, is the city’s largest-capacity venue, but it has struggled to host the biggest touring shows due to its limitations. ATG Entertainment, which operates the theatre, is poised to collaborate with the council on expansion plans that promise to enhance the facility’s capabilities.
Cllr Ruairi Kelly, the council’s convener for housing and development, emphasized the importance of this new lease, stating, “This is the sort of thing that we can do to support bringing some of those larger productions into the city.” The council’s approval signals a commitment to ensuring that Glasgow remains a competitive player in the arts scene, potentially preventing major shows from migrating to Edinburgh.
The new lease aims to provide ATG with the security needed to invest in the theatre’s redevelopment. An official mentioned that the planned upgrades would focus on back-of-house improvements, equipping the venue to accommodate modern productions with advanced technical requirements. “A lot of the potential development would be about back of house,” the official explained, “allowing these larger productions to have the equipment and machinery they need.”
As part of the lease negotiations, the council previously established an exclusivity agreement in 2023 to prevent other entities from managing the theatre, ensuring that ATG remains the sole operator. With the current lease set to expire in 2029, the council anticipates a longer-term renewal following the redevelopment proposal.
The theatre has a rich history, having opened in 1904, and currently attracts over 450,000 visitors annually. It plays a critical role in driving foot traffic to the city center and supporting local businesses. Without necessary investments, the theatre risks losing its status and could see premium productions shift to venues with larger capacities, such as Edinburgh’s Theatre Royal.
A future report will provide further details on the redevelopment discussions now that lease negotiations have commenced. In the meantime, Glasgow Theatres Ltd has already undertaken several restoration projects, including new carpeting and upgrades to the orchestra pit.
The urgency of these developments cannot be overstated. With a burgeoning arts scene in Glasgow, this new lease represents a pivotal moment for the city’s cultural landscape, setting the stage for a revitalized King’s Theatre that could once again host the biggest names in entertainment. Keep an eye out for more updates as this story continues to unfold.
