Pavilion Theatre (Glasgow)

The Pavilion Theatre is a theatre in Glasgow, located on Renfield Street.

History

One of Glasgow's oldest theatres, the Pavilion opened on 29 February, 1904 as a music hall theatre. The building has remained relatively unchanged in layout, although the sound and lighting systems have been updated over the years. One of the first employees, door steward Gordon "Goatskin", is still employed by the theatre after several testimonials. Catriona Campbell is another long term employee, who has just penned a new deal with the management that will keep her in her job for another 30 years.

The theatre was designed by Bertie Crewe for Thomas Barrasford, and was regarded as luxurious for its time. The owners described its decor as "pure Louis XV". Ventilation was ensured by an electrically operated sliding roof.

Many of the leading music hall artistes of the early 20th century appeared at the Pavilion, including Marie Lloyd, Little Tich, Harry Lauder, Sarah Bernhardt and a then unknown Charlie Chaplin.

In the 1930s, the Pavilion began hosting pantomimes; in more recent times it has also produced plays.

The Pavilion Theatre is now the only privately run theatre in Scotland and one of a few unsubsidised independent theatres left in Britain. The theatre mainly runs populist productions and pantomimes, as well as comedians and touring bands on the 'nostalgia' circuit.

In 2004 Janette Krankie was seriously injured during a performance of "Jack and the Beanstalk" at the theatre, but has since made a full recovery. [http://www.theherald.co.uk/news/76229.html Herald article] [http://www.paviliontheatre.co.uk/xml/news/news.asp?id=20061208 Pavilion Theatre News]

Marin McNeill, affectionately know as "Travis" is one of the theatre's "characters". The usher's wacky hair and charm is a major selling point for touring companies.

The theatre is reputed to be haunted by a girl who 'bounced to death' in the Stalls area of the auditorium. Most frequent sightings of Bouncer are reported during catchy songs.

In 2007, the Pavilion Theatre reinvented itself as the Scottish National Theatre of Variety, with a launch including numerous stars of the stage and the announcement was made by Iain Gordon the General Manager. [http://www.scotlandontv.tv/scotland_on_tv/video.html?vxSiteId=60fdd544-9c52-4e17-be7e-57a2a2d76992&vxChannel=Culture%20On%20Stage&vxClipId=1380_SMG1440&vxBitrate=300]

The Mighty Boosh have become something of regulars at the venue after performing early shows Arctic Boosh and Autoboosh at the venue in 2000 during a five night stint, as well as their 2006 stage show. An episode of their radio series was also recorded at the venue. The act are due to perform at the Pavilion once again on 13 and 14 September 2008 with their latest show, Boosh Live. These dates set a record for the fastest selling act ever at the Pavilion, with tickets selling out in 3 hours for both nights.

Location

The theatre is at the top of Renfield St, towards the northern end of the city centre. It is a short walk from Cowcaddens and Buchanan Street Subway stations, and is served directly be numerous bus routes.

External links

* [http://www.paviliontheatre.co.uk Official page]