Taking the total Scottish Government contribution for the theatre’s development to £17.5m, the funding will cover the final costs associated with the extensive refurbishment of the building, which has been home to the theatre since 1945.

The theatre re-opened in August 2025, following seven years of work to modernise the building, which originally opened as Her Majesty’s Theatre in 1878. 

Culture secretary Angus Robertson said: “As well as being the main producing theatre for audiences in the west of Scotland, Citizens Theatre is a significant national asset for the theatre sector, providing regular employment for around 120 staff across creative, technical, front of house and administrative roles.

“This latest funding, covering the final costs of the seven-year refurbishment, takes total Scottish Government investment in the theatre’s development to £17.5m, underlining our recognition of the Citizens’ importance for the Gorbals, for Glasgow, and the wider theatre sector.”

Alison Newton, chair of the Citizens Theatre Board, said: “We are deeply grateful to the Scottish Government for this crucial funding that allows us to complete our building redevelopment project. With our funders support, we have delivered a transformed, accessible theatre building, deeply rooted in the many communities that it serves.

“Glasgow has welcomed us back with open arms – with more than 50,000 people through our doors since we reopened last year. Our funders have been steadfast in their commitment to the project and this final intervention by the Scottish Government was the last step in the journey.

“With an exciting season of work ahead, we will continue to deliver artistic excellence for and with our communities as part of Scotland’s rich and internationally renowned cultural offer.”