The six statues, so familiar for decades to theatregoers and Gorbals’ residents alike, have now been reinstated in their new elevated positions at the Citizen’s Theatre from where they command an imposing view.
The statues, that have been restored by Scottish sculptor David J Mitchell, celebrate our national bard Robert Burns; William Shakespeare; the four Greek goddesses Melpomene (tragedy), Thalia (comedy), Euterpe (song and poetry) and Terpsichore (dance).
As work to redevelop iconic Gorbals landmark, carried out by Architects Bennetts Associates, enters its final phase ahead of reopening in 2024, these statues that were so much part of the Citizen’s experience, were lifted into their new homes creating a dramatic new focal point for the Gorbals in particular and for Glasgow and its Southside more widely.
Director of Bennetts Associates, James Nelmes said “It’s exciting to see a key part of our design for the redevelopment of the Citizens Theatre come to fruition. The statues on the roof will sit alongside pink neon and black brick encompassing the many old and new traditions that make up the identity of the building. The Citz has always married its heritage with a contemporary, international outlook and we have reflected that in our design. The redevelopment will deliver spaces and experiences full of character, reflecting the unique and idiosyncratic nature of the theatre building and company.”
The history of the six stone statues dates back to 1878 when the building first opened and they adorned the front of the building as part of a shared façade with the Palace Theatre. Having survived a fire and demolition in 1977 when the Palace Theatre was condemned, they were reunited in the Citizens Theatre foyer in 1989.
Protecting the unique heritage of the Citizens Theatre and improving access to it, has been a key goal of the Redevelopment project. Many of the original Victorian features, including the paint frame and stage machinery, that is the only surviving example of nineteenth century stage machinery in Scotland, will have new public access.
The building work is expected to be completed by the summer next year allowing creative work to get underway by the autumn of 2024.
Executive Director & Joint CEO of Citizens Theatre Alex McGowan said “I’m delighted to see the restored statues return to the roof of the theatre as we mark another significant milestone in our journey to re-opening. We also hope it is an exciting moment in the wider regeneration of the Gorbals as we restore and reimagine a visual landmark for our local area. The Citz is an iconic building with a huge history, but its beautiful Victorian features were hidden behind an uninviting yellow brick facade. The new frontage to the theatre completely transforms that. Throughout the project, audiences have enthused about the statues that welcomed them to the theatre for decades in our old foyer …”
Irene Brown
Radio Summerhall Arts 