Scotland's oldest theatre to re-open... in time for Christmas

The Theatre Royal. Credit: ITV Border

Scotland's oldest working theatre is on course to re-open this Christmas.

The Theatre Royal, in Dumfries, has been closed for around a year while building works take place.

And it could have been shut for good - if a £2 million renovation project hadn't been agreed.

Once finished, the theatre will be bigger, and will have a new rehearsal room, and improved bar and foyer.

The Guild of Players are excited about the opportunities this will provide for them, and the community:

The building works have uncovered some hidden gems, like an original stone archway.

It's going to take a long time to move all of the Players' equipment and props back in:

Props are due to be moved back in. Credit: ITV Border

But things are going to plan so far, and it's hoped the theatre will re-open this Christmas, in time for a special pantomime.