AYR was awash with panto dames, banners and balloons as The Gaiety Theatre enjoyed a VIP re-opening on Saturday.

Local theatre groups Ayr Fort Players, Ayr Amateur Opera Company and the Ayrshire Philharmonic Operatic Society joined in the parade, which made its way from Ayr Central down Ayr High Street to the Carrick Street theatre, joined by Jennie Campbell’s School of Dance,, the Johnstone Pipe Band and Gaiety volunteers.

There was then an official opening ceremony, attended by over 1,000 people, with Leader of the Council Bill McInotsh, Gaiety chairman Ian Welsh and community champion Liz Smillie. all playing a role

It was then time to open the doors to let eager visitors see inside the new-look theatre, which is opening its doors after a major refurbishment programme.

This included a revamp of the main theatre - including new seating with more room for theatregoers.

Audiences got to go behind the scenes and tread the brand-new boards, with 650 people enjoying guided tours  and take in a photographic exhibition in the Studio Theatre from the volunteer-led Heritage Team. 

There was then a specially commissioned film premiere created by Eileen Frater from Prancing Jack Productions featuring; Dave Anderson, Johnny Beattie, Dean Park; Michelle McManus; Robert C Kelly; Joyce Falconer and Deacon Blue’s Jim Prime. 

The facelift has been carried out with help from South Ayrshire Council and Creative Scotland and many others, including Heritage Lottery Fund, Scottish Government and several trusts. 

Chief Executive Jeremy Wyatt said: “Over eight years ago, Ayr Gaiety Partnership dreamt about this day. I am overwhelmed and delighted by the response we’ve received and continue to receive from our local and national partners  and members of the community who have and continue to support us as we step in to our next chapter”

Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “What we are celebrating today as we unveil the new-look Gaiety is a terrific achievement of passion, dedication, tenacity and – most of all – partnership. mUnder the steady hand of the Ayr Gaiety Partnership and with investment and support from a catalogue of partners, the Gaiety has been brought back to life”

Philip Deverell, Director, Strategy and Creative Scotland said: “The refurbishment of The Gaiety Theatre has provided South Ayrshire with a high quality cultural hub. The refurbishment of the theatre which is over 100 years old creates a 21st century facility and will allow for a more diverse and inclusive cultural programme.”

Lucy Casot, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, commented: “The Gaiety Theatre plays a hugely important role in the life of the local community. It is interwoven with the history and cultural traditions of the area and has delighted, educated and entertained audiences throughout the years”.

See www.thegaiety.co.uk for details of theAutumn Season., which kicks off with the Ayr Fort Players on September 15 with their production of The Ladykillers.