George Square Theatre plans 2008

GEORGE SQUARE THEATRE TO BE CENTRE FOR A FESTIVAL OF MUSICAL THEATRE DURING EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FRINGE 2008

For the first time in the Fringes history, Edinburgh has a dedicated home for Musical Theatre as George Square Theatre plans for the best of new and classic Musical Theatre across three performance spaces. The Festivals Office at the University of Edinburgh will be operating the venue in partnership with Chris Grady.org and supported by Anthony Alderson and his highly renowned team at Pleasance Theatre. Chris was previously Head of Licensing of Cameron Mackintosh; he founded Musical Theatre Matters (MTM:UK) in 2005 and established the first Edinburgh Festival Fringe MTM:UK Musical Theatre Awards in 2007.

These spaces George 1, George II and George Free will be complemented by a musical caf and bar, musical theatre shop, talks, master classes and showcases. George Square Theatres will be THE place to be this Festival. Almost a Festival within a Festival the Edinburgh Festival of Musical Theatre.

Chris Grady commented I am delighted that the University of Edinburgh Festivals Office have decided to offer companies and audiences the very first dedicated venues for Musical Theatre. Edinburgh is a fantastic launch pad for new writers, new talent, and new producers. It is also a great opportunity for professional, student and community companies to offer audiences productions of musical theatre classics. Working with the Pleasance Theatre management and technical teams on the development of George II and the marketing of the programme will hopefully ensure the best possible start for this important initiative. Now we look forward to listening to many new projects for this years Festival
The University of Edinburgh Festivals Office is heavily involved in all Edinburghs various festivals throughout the year, in particular, The Edinburgh International Science Festival, and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes place 3rd-25th August 2008 and marks a return for George Square Theatre following a major refurbishment in 2007. Owned by the University, its 481 capacity auditorium will be supported by a 95 seat Studio space, with wide open musical theatre stage. In addition, a third free performance space completes the project creating a focus and centre for musical theatre.