Ambitious plans to transform a former Kirkcaldy cinema into a potentially world class entertainment venue have been unveiled.
After weeks of speculation, Kings Theatre Kirkcaldy Ltd, a non-profit organisation, has outlined its vision for the old ABC Cinema and has confirmed its desire to turn it into Fife’s largest and most prestigious theatre, arts and live music venue.
The much-loved building and adjacent former YMCA site has lain empty since it closed as a cinema in 2000 and has fallen into disrepair, although hopes of a potential lifeline were raised earlier this year when question marks were placed on the building’s exterior.
Now it has emerged that KingsTheatre Kirkcaldy Ltd want to raise £30,000 to make the structure wind and watertight, paving the way for a wider project to rejuvenate Kirkcaldy and Fife’s entertainment scene.
Drone footage released by those behind the project earlier this year showed the scale of the work needed to upgrade the former ABC, but Grant
Foster, a director at Kings TheatreKirkcaldy Ltd, said yesterday the company’s crowdfunding campaign is the first step towards realising their dream.
“The main thing is to get the thing watertight so we’ve got something to save,” he said.
“But we’re confident that Kirkcaldy can have a really top notch entertainment venue here, and we’re looking to bring the things that Edinburgh and Glasgow have to Fife.
“It would massively encourage people to visit Kirkcaldy which would, in turn, boost the local economy massively.
“Above all, the people of Kirkcaldy not only need this but deserve it.”
Highlighting their vision yesterday, the group said it foresaw the creation of a 2,000-seat “theatre/music venue incorporating a high-end corporate meetings/events and private function suite with a fine dining restaurant”.
Mr Foster added that those behind the plans have set a deadline of December 7 to hit their £30,000 target.
In its social media campaign, organisers stated the venue could host big name bands, musicals or visits from Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, National Theatre of Scotland or the RSNO.
Anyone wishing to donate can do so at thecrowdfundingpage.