Local Labour politicians have come out against the proposal to list the Brunton Theatre building.
Their opposition was stated in an open letter to Historic Environment Scotland where they claimed listing the current building would jeopardise plans to build a new theatre in Musselburgh.
The letter was signed by Labour MSPs Sarah Boyack and Martin Whitfield, East Lothian MP Douglas Alexander, Edinburgh East MP Chris Murray and Musselburgh Councillors Andy Forrest and Ruaridh Bennett.
The signatories raised concerns that “preserving the current building also preserves many of the issues it faces, including a lack of accessibility, concerns over safety and vital maintenance”.
The letter also reiterated the elected representatives’ commitment towards a new theatre space in Musselburgh that can continue the cultural legacy of the current building while providing better facilities to improve accessibility.
The current theatre was mothballed last October after it closed its doors in 2023 for the last time due to the presence of RAAC.
Commenting on the letter, Ms Boyack said:“I hope this letter illustrates to Historic Environment Scotland why we oppose the listing of the current building.Our driving priority must be the continuation of a theatre in Musselburgh – listing will jeopardise this.
“I am looking forward to working with the Brunton Theatre Trust and with HES to find a solution that ensures that Musselburgh residents get an accessible and functioning theatre space.”
Key stakeholders, local councillors, community leaders and representatives from the arts sector gathered for a roundtable discussion on the future of the Brunton Hall in Musselburgh.
Many MSPs and MPs were present including, Martin Whitfield MSP, Colin Beattie MSP, Alison Johnston MSP, Jeremy Balfour MSP, Douglas Alexander MP, and Paul McLennan MSP, showing cross-governmental support for the project.
The meeting, held in response to ongoing challenges facing the historic venue, focused on potential redevelopment, public consultation, and securing funding for a sustainable future.
The discussion, led by key figures such as Sarah Boyack MSP, Councillor Andy Forrest, and representatives from The Brunton Trust and Creative Scotland, highlighted the urgent need to address the deteriorating condition of the Brunton. Following the end of COVID-19, the top floor of the theatre was deemed unsafe, leading to staff being relocated to other areas such as Haddington. Plans are now in place to mothball the building by June.
A major point of discussion was the importance of public consultation, ensuring the local community has a say in the theatre’s future. Stakeholders agreed that any plans must be community-led, with an open call for ideas to explore creative solutions.
As one representative noted: “There will be someone in the public that will have an idea that no one has thought of yet.”
A full public consultation will launch in the next 3-4 weeks to gather community input and assess potential uses for the space.
The estimated cost of demolishing the building currently stands at £3.6 million, a figure likely to increase. Identifying funding sources is the priority, including engagement with key groups.
Discussions included the potential for the Brunton to serve as a multi-use arts centre, supporting local artists and attracting larger productions. The idea of expanding event offerings, such as weddings and touring productions, was also raised as a potential revenue stream.
Calls were made for greater collaboration with the Edinburgh International Festival and other arts organisations to ensure Musselburgh remains a cultural hub.
“There’s no point having an International Festival City if there is nothing offered in Musselburgh,” said a participant.
With strong concerns over maintaining Brunton’s identity and cultural value, stakeholders emphasised that any redevelopment must preserve the theatre’s role as a community hub. Creative Scotland representatives acknowledged the challenges but expressed optimism about potential funding opportunities if a clear and viable plan is developed.
The roundtable concluded with a commitment to keeping the community informed and involved in the next steps. Further meetings will be scheduled as feasibility studies progress, ensuring a transparent and collaborative approach to shaping the future of the Brunton Hall.
Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP stated:“The Brunton has always been known for being a vibrant community hub.
“Finding venues can be tough, and it is very important, as the Edinburgh International Festival attracts thousands of visitors each year, that we prioritise areas like Musselburgh.”
The Brunton, in association with David Ross and Tommie Travers, is delighted to announce open auditions for an exciting new amateur production of SUNSHINE ON LEITH – one of Scotland’s most popular and successful musicals.
Written by Stephen Greenhorn and with songs by The Proclaimers, SUNSHINE ON LEITH will be overseen by a professional creative team and will be staged at The Brunton from Wednesday 16th – Saturday 19th February 2022, six performances in total.
Auditions take place at The Brunton on Saturday 30th October, between 2pm – 6pm and Sunday 31st October, between 12noon – 4pm.
Applicants will be allocated a 5-minute audition slot on their chosen date, on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants must be aged 18 or over and must also be available to rehearse on Tuesday evenings, from 7pm – 9pm, approx.
