Watching the transformation of Kirkcaldy’s Adam Smith Theatre has been thrilling for new venue manager Ayesha Nickson – but the wow factor will come when audiences return.
The backdrop may be impressive, says Ayesha, but it is people who will be front and centre when the revamped facility opens on 23 September.
She promises visitors will be assured the warmest of welcomes and encouraged to make the most of the new-look venue.
Theatre staff are keen to reconnect with local music, drama and dance groups – as well as loyal audiences – to help ensure the broadest community buy-in.
“We’re really listening to what people want from this amazing space,” says Ayesha, who took up the post in April and was previously venue manager at Rothes Hall in Glenrothes.
“It’s great being part of this exciting adventure – turning a traditional theatre into a versatile, creative hub that offers people something different from what it did previously.”
The facility – run by cultural charity OnFife – includes a refurbished foyer, new-look café/bar and upgraded auditorium. It also has a brand-new design suite for creative professionals, reworked spaces for community use and will be looking towards corporate and celebratory events with the completely revamped Beveridge Suite, lower function hall and a new multi-use meeting room.
“I’ve given people tours and they’ve had tears in their eyes – the theatre has been such a great part of their lives and now they’re seeing it being given a new lease of life.
Ayesha, who studied theatre production at Queen Margaret University, will lead a team of nine, which will be boosted by casual staff at busy times.
Says Ayesha: “We really want to see people make the most of the venue – perhaps popping in for a yoga class and then staying for a coffee in the new-look cafe/bar.
“Or it could mean catching a stop motion animation in the revamped auditorium and then attending a workshop in the design suite to learn how to make one yourself.
“At the other end of the scale, we’re looking forward to hosting everything from business conferences to family celebrations.”
Prior to Rothes Hall, Ayesha was head of membership and events at the Royal Scot Club in Edinburgh and, before that, events co-ordinator at Prestonfield House Hotel across the city.
“This job’s a perfect combination for me, having worked in events and trained in theatre,” says Ayesha. “It seems no time since I started, but I’m as excited as anyone about the opening.”
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For further information contact Sheona Small, press officer, 07809 727 989 or email sheona.small@onfife.com
Notes to editors: OnFife is a registered charity and manages and operates theatres, libraries, museums and galleries and cultural partnerships on behalf of Fife Council for people living, working and visiting Fife. Further information can be found at www.onfife.com
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