Signed, Sealed, Delivered: A 50-Year Lease
Leith Theatre is here to stay!
Since our grand opening ceremony 1932, Leith Theatre has stood the test of time at the heart of this community, despite periods of closure and intermissions lasting a few beats too long. It has seen many performances, from school groups and local choirs to much-loved classical music, opera and rock gigs. As a space for people to gather, create and have fun, this building knows how to give a warm welcome (despite its chilly interior!)
We are so thrilled to share a major milestone in our journey: Leith Theatre Trust has secured a 50-year lease for this iconic venue.
Yes, you read that right - 50 years! That’s half a century of opportunity looking right at us. We hope to see decades of gigs, live performances and memories made from the first note to the last encore. Most importantly, this is a commitment to the future, ensuring that Leith Theatre remains a thriving, sustainable cultural and community space for generations to come. This achievement is the result of two decades of hard work, encore spirit and a sheer refusal to let this building become a forgotten relic. You might say, Perseverance.
Since 2004, Leith Theatre Trust has been campaigning, pop-upping, fundraising, fixing leaks and generally doing whatever it takes to keep this grand old dame standing. And now, with a proper, long-term lease in place, we can start making bigger, bolder plans with this heritage building’s best interests at heart.
Lynn Morrison, Chief Executive
Leith Theatre Trust Chief Executive, Lynn Morrison, summed it up perfectly: “I feel so proud to play a part in safeguarding such a unique and incredible heritage asset. The lease now gives us the stability to develop and steer this project towards refurbishment and sustainability as a key piece of cultural infrastructure in the city. I believe this space can be transformational for Leith, and I am excited to plan for its long-term future.”
Leith Theatre Trust Chair, Bob Last, reflected on this milestone: “When I took on the role of Chair at Leith Theatre, my primary goal was to ensure that we negotiated a new long-term lease for this asset gifted to the people of Leith in the 1930s. After many months of work alongside a tenacious team, I am pleased to deliver the vital security this lease brings.”
Negotiating the lease has taken lots of involvement across the council, ourselves and legal teams but keeping the heritage of this whole site was of utmost importance for the future – it is such a fine example of classic inter-war architecture with its own exciting history and so many stories within its community.
Leith Theatre from above.
David Orr, Commercial Real Estate Partner at Aberdein Considine, who negotiated the lease on behalf of Leith Theatre Trust, said: “It is immensely rewarding to have played a part in this extremely exciting new chapter for the iconic Leith Theatre, which will both preserve this significant piece of the historic built environment and revive this unique venue for the cultural and creative industries.
So, what’s next?
Securing such a long-term lease is a game-changer. It means we can actually plan ahead and bring in the investment needed to transform Leith Theatre into a sparkling jewel in the city’s cultural landscape.
So, jump on board - because Leith Theatre’s next 50 years are going to be something really special!