News of Eden Court Re-opening In Inverness

29th August 2007

In a special presentation taking place today, Colin Marr, Director of Eden Court announced not only the opening date but also the programme for the launch season.

The announcement comes following a two year construction period that has seen the Highlands only large scale theatre transformed into the biggest and best arts venue in Scotland.

Colin Marr said, 'Eden Court has always been many things to many people. Because of this we decided that when we reopen, that rather than just have one opening show we felt we would like to have a full season of many fantastic events. We wanted something that would appeal to everyone.'

Beginning on 3 November 2007 a series of world class entertainers will appear at the Eden Court for a spectacular opening season:

• The venue's doors closed on 4 June 2005 when traditional music legends Phil Cunningham and Aly Bain had a storming night. Fittingly, when doors reopen on 3 November the duo will take up where they left off as the opening act.

• They are followed by outstanding comic superstar Lenny Henry. He is joined in the opening week by Irish comic Ardal O'Hanlon.

• Between these two comedians, the Scottish Symphony Orchestra will be launching the classical concert season featuring all three of Scotland's national orchestras and the world famous Academy of Ancient Music.

• Throughout November, leading up to December the events continue with Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, Blazin' Fiddles and the Mod champion Gaelic choir, Failte.

• Following a break of over four years Scottish Opera will return to Eden Court with The Barber of Seville and A Night at the Chinese Opera.

• Finally, a winter season at Eden Court would not be complete with the traditional family pantomime. Tickets for Peter Pan are already well established having been on sale since March this year.

• In addition to shows and performances in 850 seat auditorium, the new Eden Court will see the launch of two state-of-the-art cinemas with superbly comfortable seating, crystal sharp vision and digital surround sound. Cinema doors open on 15-18 November with the 2007 Inverness Film Festival and cinema audiences will be able to enjoy many Scottish film premieres, special guests, workshops, and themed screenings.

• Following a two year search for a contemporary Scottish musical in collaboration with theatrical impresario Sir Cameron, the world premiere of The Sundowe will be the opening event for the newly constructed theatre at Eden Court. Following a three week run at Eden Court, this wickedly funny musical will then embark on a Highland-wide tour.

• Finally, offering the first professional dance and drama education studios in the Highlands visitors will be able to participate in and enjoy a full series classes, events and activities for all ages and abilities.

At the presentation, Douglas Yule, Chair of the Eden Court Board of Governors said

'The people of the Highlands will now have access to the very finest arts facilities available. Not only will they be able to experience the very best in theatre and cinema entertainment, they will also be able to enjoy new galleries, exhibitions, fantastic bar and restaurant facilities and for the very first time be able to visit the Bishop's Palace, one of the most important historical buildings in Inverness'.

Although construction work began on Eden Court in November 2005, planning and preparation began many years before. Eden Court consisted of two unique buildings on a Grade A listed site. A third building with the new theatre, cinemas and studios has now been added along with a new dressing room block.

Construction on the Eden Court development has been carried out by Elgin-based company, Robertson Construction Northern. Joining Colin Marr and Douglas Yule announcing the reopening date of the venue was the company's Executive Chairman, Bill Robertson.

Bill Robertson said, 'Working on Eden Court has proved a fascinating project. It has been a rare combination of new build, repair work, restoration and refurbishment. Robertson Construction Northern is proud to have the knowledge and experience required to undertake such a challenging development. We are delighted to have been involved with such a prestigious project and play our part in creating such a wonderful cultural asset for the Highlands for generations to come.

'We wish Eden Court the very best with its opening season and beyond.'

The Highland Council has warmly welcomed confirmation that Eden Court, Inverness, will re-open in early November with an exciting programme of events.

The Council, which owns the theatre, contributed a total of £3.95 million, including £1 million from Inverness Common Good Fund, towards the cost of the redevelopment and is also actively involved in funding the successful Out of Eden dance and drama project.

Council Vice-Convener Jean Urquhart, the Council's spokesperson on arts and culture, said: "The Highlands without Eden Court would be like porridge without salt. To better engage with all of our communities we need Eden Court just as we need Inverness Leisure Centre and Caledonian Stadium ~ all contribute to making Inverness a city we can all be proud of."

Provost Bob Wynd, Chairman of The Highland Council's Inverness City Committee, said: "These exciting improvements are designed to serve the residents of the Highlands and to attract more visitors and conferences from all over the world. The commitment from Inverness Common Good Fund is a true indication of the important part Eden Court plays in the life of the city."

For more information and booking tickets to all concerts etc see -
www.eden-court.co.uk