The Alhambra

“The Alhambra Theatre was built in 1922 and was originally used as a variety theatre before being turned into a cinema… it was turned into a bingo hall in 1965. However, the B-listed building, which houses the fourth largest stage in Scotland, has provided a fabulous platform for famous artists…

”So when Carlton Bingo moved out of the building in 2005 it was decided to transform the theatre back to its former theatre glory – fulfilling the original purpose for the venue.

“As you can see, the transformation is astonishing and the theatre is now attracting West End, touring productions and some of the country’s biggest acts. A remarkable achievement for a venue which was an empty shell just four years ago!

”The restoration was aided by fundraising from the local community. The theatre hosted a series of events entitled ‘Alhambra Alive’ to raise the £2 million required for refurbishment.

“The Alhambra has the fourth largest stage in Scotland! The Alhambra Theatre is home to not one but TWO theatre ghosts! One is the old projectionist and one is an Italian opera singer. Spooky! The National Theatre of Scotland’s production of ‘The House of Bernarda Alba’ will be the first drama production in the Alhambra for 87 years! Fife-born chart-topper KT Tunstall described the Alhambra as a ‘Scottish Shepherd’s Bush Empire’! Thanks to our system of curtains and dimmers, our seating capacity is totally flexible! It can range from 250 to a massive 2100 people! Bill Kenwright’s Blood Brothers will be the first professional touring production to visit Dunfermline since 1932! Once during the 1930’s an elephant appeared on stage!” (Taken from The Alhambra’s Autumn/Winter 2009 leaflet)

The Alhambra puts on other events, such as music, ballet, opera, concerts and comedy – see their website for more details.