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A trip to Scotland is not complete until you visit one of the top theaters in the country. Some cities like Edinburgh have a concentration of theaters, while some only have a few. These theaters present unique classic and contemporary shows you can enjoy alone or with your loved ones.

So, while in Scotland, try to enjoy musicals, dance, and comedy shows at one or more of these theaters. 

Without further ado, check out these Scottish theaters you should explore while in the country.

Edinburgh Playhouse, Edinburgh

Two theaters always top the lists of the top theaters in Scotland, and Edinburgh Playhouse is one of them. Located north of Calton Hill, Edinburgh Playhouse is a large theater that hosts different performances weekly.

Depending on when you visit, you can enjoy watching plays, musicals, comedies, dances, and other live shows in the theater.

Edinburgh castle

Edinburgh Playhouse is famous for having more seats than any non-sporting theater in the United Kingdom. In addition, the theater was built in the early 1900s and currently holds a Category A historical listing.  Seeing a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse is an experience you will not forget for a long time.

King’s Theatre, Glasgow

King’s Theatre is the other theater that tops lists with Edinburgh Playhouse. This theater also boasts immense popularity among tourists and Scottish locals. This theater is located in the city’s heart, making it easy to access.

Most shows at King’s Theatre start at 7:30 pm, so you must get there early. People coming from other cities can easily take trains Liverpool to Glasgow or from other places in the UK. 

The moment you behold the architecture of King’s Theatre, you will understand why it is a national monument. The breathtaking architecture provides a majestic background for live performances in the theater. Despite being over a century old, this theater oozes luxury.

Glasgow theater

Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy

Taking a seat in Adam Smith Theatre is a memory you will cherish forever. You will be settling into an architectural masterpiece that has been standing for over a century.

Dedicated to renowned architect Adam Smith, this theater is located in the middle of Kirkcaldy town. The surrounding sights include the Memorial Gardens and the Kirkcaldy Galleries.

To best experience this historical landmark, make sure to see one of the high-quality shows performed here. Adam Smith Theatre is one of the notable venues to enjoy local arts in Scotland. The theater can seat 475 people for a vast array of shows including drama, musicals, dance, and comedy.

Festival Theatre, Edinburgh

Festival Theatre is slightly different from other theaters on this list. It is modern and opulent, and I highly recommend visiting during your time in Edinburgh.

The theatre was opened in 1892 but has undergone several renovations since then. Now, it boasts of glossy glass on the outside and an ample sitting space with golden lights on the inside. The hall seats 1915 people and is usually filled during one of its many popular shows.

Edinburgh street

Visiting Festival Theatre is an experience you will remember for many years afterward. The theater mainly showcases opera and ballet performances. However, you may experience one of the occasional musicals performed here.

The Scottish Opera and Ballet also use the theater as their primary venue. In between major events, you can check online to see which performances are showing while you are there.

If you cannot check beforehand, you can still go in and see if there is anything good showing. Major shows to look forward to include the International Festival in the summer and the Christmas shows in the winter, however, Festival Theatre features performances year-round, so you can still explore the landmark anytime.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry

If you are looking for a small theater to experience Scottish culture, Pitlochry is one of your best options. Many tourists become regulars after visiting this theater for the first time.

The location provides a view of the “Speckled Mountain” and the river. Known as the “Theatre in the Hills,” Pitlochry Festival Theatre is renowned internationally. The shows are always stellar, and the detailed sets often spark positive reviews from visitors.

If you visit Scotland at the end of the year, you may get to experience one of the theater’s famous Christmas musicals. You can also see dramas, comedies, concerts, and talks year-round. You will be looking forward to your next visit when you leave the theater.

You can get tickets to shows in Pitlochry Festival Theatre anytime, but it is better to get them in advance. This is mainly for popular shows whose tickets are in high demand. If, after booking, you are unable to visit, you can get a refund if you cancel early. You can also book a tour of the theater with a group.

Make sure to visit these five exceptional Scottish theaters on your visit to the country. 

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