The Usher Hall continues centenary year celebrations this Saturday (13 September) with a Family Edwardian Day …
Edinburgh’s concert venue, The Usher Hall, is inviting families to step back in time and discover what life would have been like in the Hall when it first opened its doors in 1914. An action-packed day for all the family is planned with an array of activities including story-telling, traditional games, arts and crafts from this bygone era.
In the company of costumed characters representing Edwardian society, families will be taken on an engaging journey through the Usher Hall hearing stories from its past and exploring areas not normally open to the public. Standing on the famous stage where many stars have performed is sure to be a highlight of this event.
Councillor Richard Lewis, Edinburgh’s Culture and Sport Convener, said: “The Family Edwardian Day will be a unique opportunity to explore behind the scenes at the Usher Hall and find out what it was like to visit 100 years ago.
“The Usher Hall has been hosting concerts ever since it was gifted to the city by local whisky distiller, Andrew Usher, back in 1914. While its A-listed walls have welcomed some of the world’s best musicians over the years, many people do not know that the hall was once equipped to act as an air raid shelter during the Second World War.
“The Usher Hall has been at the heart of Edinburgh throughout recent history, and if you look closely, you will see many familiar figures from Scotland’s past depicted in the decoration of the hall including Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. The open day will give people the chance to hear about these secrets.”
The event is suitable for primary school children and children must be accompanied by an adult on the tour. Booking is essential and tours take place at 10.30am, 12noon, 1.30pm, 3pm and last approximately 60 minutes. Tours provided by Mercat Tours Ltd.
Tickets cost £10 or £30 for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children).
For further details on tickets contact the box office on 0131 228 1155 or visit