Theatre Royal

The Theatre Royal on Hope Street is both the oldest theatre in Glasgow and the longest running theatre in Scotland. It first opened in 1867 as the Royal Colosseum & Opera House, before suffering two fires and reopening in September of 1985.

It’s a traditional proscenium arch theatre which boasts a grand auditorium with cherry-red walls, plush seating and an ornate ceiling. Home to Scotland's resident companies – Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet – it's an excellent venue to experience both national and international dance and opera on a large scale. The repertoire also includes West End and touring productions, as well as some big names in comedy.

After more recent redevelopments, the Theatre Royal's lavish auditorium is complemented by a chic redesign of the foyers, complete with shiny new upper floors and balconies from which visitors can get a gander at Glasgow's cityscape. Also, new cafe Vanilla Black at the Theatre is open from 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday, with extended opening hours on performance nights.