Dundee Rep and Scottish Dance Theatre have confirmed that after 18 months they will once again open their doors to audiences on 7 September with the World Premiere of Wings Around Dundee by playwright John McCann, a highlight of a newly announced autumn season of live and digital shows focused on celebrating the community spirit and giving thanks to the people of Dundee and wider Scotland who have engaged with and supported Dundee Rep and Scottish Dance Theatre during this challenging time.
The season also includes a long-awaited return of such critically acclaimed shows as Antigone, Interrupted which will see Scottish Dance Theatre touring for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, and TuTuMucky, a smash hit from Botis Seva blending hip hop, ballet and contemporary dance. The National Theatre of Scotland will return once again with the World Premiere of The Enemy opening at The Rep and the season will climax with a new musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol – created in collaboration with Noisemaker – to spread the holiday cheer around Dundee and an ambitious Community Engagement programme including Sinder / Every Map Has A Scale and a world-class dance and theatre offer for people of all ages.
Both companies have carried out careful and detailed planning in preparation for the re-opening to ensure their operations follow the Covid-19 Scottish Government guidance with the safety of audiences, artists and staff being the top priority.
Dundee Rep’s Artistic Director Andrew Panton said: “What an amazing feeling to be welcoming audiences back into the Rep after such a long period. Our autumn season celebrates the work of our two ensembles with world premieres and new films capturing their collaborations over the past months in our communities. We also continue working with the most exciting freelance theatre, dance and music artists who have consistently innovated whilst our theatre has been closed. I’m thrilled that Rep Studios will continue alongside our in person work, so that anyone anywhere can continue to have access to the work of Dundee Rep and Scottish Dance Theatre.”
Scottish Dance Theatre Artistic Director Joan Clevillé said: “Our autumn season reflects the wide range of dance experiences that Scottish Dance Theatre can offer, and our commitment as a resource for the development of artistic and civic communities. I am thrilled by the prospect of safely welcoming audiences back into theatre spaces, but I am equally excited by continuing our artistic journey into the digital medium, which has allowed us to connect with audiences all over the world.”
