Ricky Ross helps celebrate return of new-look Gardyne Theatre

The renovation of the Gardyne Theatre has been marked with a homecoming gig by Deacon Blue frontman Ricky Ross.

The 400-seat venue was relaunched on Wednesday with a concert featuring Ricky and his friend, Pearlfishers singer Davie Scott.

The intimate show was in contrast to Deacon Blue’s recent triumphs at Glastonbury and Belladrum festivals where he played in front of thousands.

Ricky, who was brought up in Dundee, confessed recently: “Long ago in a different world I played my first public show on this stage,” and said it was a pleasure to play at the refurbished venue.

Playing support were fellow Deacon Blue member and Dundonian Gregor Philp and Andrew Mitchell, frontman with Dundee band The Hazey Janes.

Ricky was joined on stage by the pair as well as another Dundonian, former Danny Wilson and Deacon Blue bassist Ged Grimes, now with Simple Minds.

The Gardyne Theatre has been closed for the past two years while the new Dundee College Gardyne Campus underwent refurbishment.

The theatre is set to become a premier venue in the east of Scotland and already has a list of professional and amateur company bookings.