The Citizens is ready to return to its roots in a rejuvenated space that honours its legacy while preparing for the future.
The Citizens Theatre in Glasgow is poised to begin a remarkable new chapter as it announces Small Acts of Love as the inaugural production for its grand reopening in September 2025. This highly anticipated moment follows an extensive redevelopment of the historic Gorbals venue, marking the culmination of years of transformation and resilience.
Small Acts of Love is a poignant and ambitious work that delves into the bonds forged in the wake of tragedy. Commissioned by Artistic Director Dominic Hill, the production explores the connections between the people of Lockerbie and the American families affected by the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing in 1988. Written by celebrated playwright Frances Poet, with music by Ricky Ross of Deacon Blue, this collaboration promises to be a deeply moving exploration of humanity’s capacity for healing and connection.
The play spans 36 years, weaving a narrative that captures the shared grief, unexpected friendships, and acts of kindness that emerged from the disaster. Through extensive interviews with individuals directly impacted on both sides of the Atlantic, Poet and Ross bring authenticity and reverence to the stories of two communities brought together by destruction, yet united by compassion. The production will feature a cast of 14 actor-singers, accompanied by a five-piece roots band, delivering a rich blend of theatrical and musical storytelling.
This groundbreaking piece serves as a fitting opener for the Citizens Theatre’s new era. Since vacating its home in 2018 for the first major redevelopment in its history, the company has brought its productions to unconventional spaces across Glasgow, ensuring its presence and participation programs remained active. From community centres to car parks, the Citizens has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to accessibility and creative engagement, including a notable residency in Gorbals primary schools.
Now, the Citizens is ready to return to its roots in a rejuvenated space that honours its legacy while preparing for the future. The iconic Category B-listed building, first established as a working theatre in 1878, has undergone a transformation that preserves its historic charm while modernizing its facilities.
With a reopening festival planned for August 2025 and a full season announcement in the spring, the Citizens Theatre is set to reintroduce itself to Glasgow in spectacular fashion. Small Acts of Love will stand as a powerful testament to the theatre’s enduring mission: telling stories that resonate deeply, inspire connection, and celebrate the human spirit.