His Majesty’s Theatre

Standing proudly on Rosemount Viaduct opposite the city’s Union Terrace Gardens is His Majesty’s Theatre – one of two theatres in the world to hold this name, its ‘twin’ being located in Perth, Australia.

As the largest theatre in north-east Scotland with four levels and a seating capacity of 1,400, His Majesty’s Theatre is a fantastic venue for the performing arts. For more than 100 years, the theatre has hosted everything from fan-favourite musicals such as Mamma Mia and Hairspray, as well as operas, ballet and stand-up comedy gigs, and welcomed world-renowned performers and local talent alike.

The History of His Majesty’s Theatre

His Majesty’s Theatre first opened its doors in December 1906. The A-listed Edwardian building was designed by prolific theatre architect Frank Matcham whose craftsmanship can also be seen in iconic venues such as the London Palladium and Glasgow King’s Theatre. Not forgetting Aberdeen’s own Tivoli Theatre which, while not built by Matcham, was improved and redeveloped by himself in 1897 and 1909.

Originally, the theatre’s plans featured two smaller towers, but the final design boasts a striking single green dome, fitting with the architecture of the neighbouring St Mark’s Church. Built from Aberdeen’s famous granite, the theatre quickly became a city landmark.

In 1975, Aberdeen City Council purchased the theatre and invested £3.5 million to ensure the building’s survival. After a 23-month closure, HMT was reopened 1982 by King Charles III (then Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay).

A significant £7.8 million refurbishment followed in 2004-05, modernising the theatre while preserving its historic charm. The project introduced a glass-fronted extension housing a new box office, café and restaurant, along with enhanced seating, accessibility improvements and state-of-the-art backstage facilities.

Accessible for all

His Majesty’s Theatre is committed to making theatre accessible and enjoyable for everyone. It offers a range of services to accommodate diverse needs including audio-described performances visually impaired guests and British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted shows for deaf audience members.

They also offer captioned performances, relaxed performances and touch tours – visit the Aberdeen Performing Arts website to find out more information about these services.

For wheelchair users or those with limited mobility, a lift provides access to the stalls, upper circle and The Terrace Bar and Café.

The Terrace Bar and Café

The Terrace is the name of the stylish in-house restaurant located on the second floor at His Majesty’s Theatre. Open from Tuesday to Saturday, The Terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal before catching a show.

Even if you are not going to a performance, visitors are still welcome to use the restaurant to try the menu or simply enjoy a coffee and a cake while taking in the lovely views across the city.

For latest information about His Majesty’s Theatre, please visit: https://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/his-majestys-theatre/