Cerin Richardson gave the Club a wonderful insight into these two Edinburgh City Council venues. Her job titles of “Head of Creativity and Performance” and Learning & Participation Co-ordinator” gives a strong clue of the importance of her role – of bringing in the community, filling the seats and creating new histories for both these long established theatres.
The Kings built in 1905, and modernised in 2011-12, remains famous for its pantomime and as an opulent touring venue for shows and plays; and also innovatory ‘access performances’ for those with disabilities. The Festival Theatre is the biggest in Scotland, famous for opera, musicals, concerts and dance shows – and has seen performances from Laurel & Hardy to David Bowie.
Cerin was a wonderful speaker and her illustrated talk reminded us of the significance of these two dynamic and popular venues. Mike Rowe, our long-term booker of group theatre seats for the Rotary Club, was clearly delighted to propose the vote of thanks.