Dunfermline’s two theatres look set to share much closer links in the future in the hope of benefiting the town.
Fife Council Leader Alex Rowley said if Carnegie Hall run by On At Fife on behalf of Fife Council forged a closer working relationship with the independently-run historic Alhambra Theatre it would “ensure the two theatres can complement each other and get even better results for Dunfermline”.
Mr Rowley singled out the Alhambra Theatre, which has been given a new lease of life after years being used as a bingo hall, as “an amazing success story”.
He said the local authority was in discussions with the theatre management on options to support its development over the next few years.
Mr Rowley said: “A new study on the economic impact of the Alhambra states an additional £3.3 million is spent in the local economy as a direct result of the Alhambra activities and the accessibility to culture for local communities has been greatly enhanced.”
He confirmed the local authority will bring forward proposals for joint working with the Alhambra in the coming months. The Alhambra is only one of two theatres in Scotland not to receive any financial support from a local authority.
The theatre is now a number one touring house alongside venues in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen, which means it is able to attract the top shows to Dunfermline.
Bill Fletcher, on behalf of the Alhambra Theatre Trust said he was heartened by the continuing talks with Mr Rowley.
“The new administration has shown a welcome willingness to engage with the organisations working in Dunfermline and Fife and embrace new ideas and visions,” he said.
“Council support would enable us to develop our ambitions and goals for the Alhambra and increase our efforts in bringing more of the best in live entertainment to Fife.
“Long-held goals such as the Alhambra Theatre Stage School, youth development, necessary upgrades to our facilities, more in-house productions, as well as the potential to create a first-class, city centre conference hub would all be within reach,” added Mr Fletcher.
The council leader was outlining progress on revitalising Dunfermline’s centre and said key to developing the tourist offer in Fife was have vibrant and attractive town centres.