Aberdeen Performing Arts today announced a campaign to mark a special anniversary. His Majesty’s Theatre, one of Aberdeen’s most iconic and beloved cultural landmarks, is celebrating 120 years at the heart of the city with the launch of a series of events and special fundraising campaign to raise £120,000 in 2026.
For over a century, His Majesty’s Theatre has been a place where generations have gathered to laugh, cry and be inspired. Having first raised its curtains in 1906 with a performance of Sweet Red Riding Hood, audiences have provided standing ovations ever since to today’s modern musicals, challenging dramas, reimagined classics and more. The venue has witnessed performances from many famous artists and actors over the years including Sean Connery, Vivien Leigh, Alec Guinness and Honor Blackman. In its special anniversary year, the theatre itself is being put in the spotlight to celebrate its past, present and future.
Now, as the theatre celebrates this milestone, the award-winning charity is looking to the future investment in the programmes that will shape the next 120 years of cultural life in Aberdeen. An ambitious fundraising initiative throughout 2026 will contribute to supporting Aberdeen Performing Arts’ community and engagement programmes, helping young people, emerging artists, and communities across the North-east to access life-changing creative opportunities.
Money raised will enable Aberdeen Performing Arts to expand engagement programmes to reach more young people and communities and grow Light the Blue, the festival that provides young artists with a platform to perform, create, and connect, and inspire future talent, ensuring that His Majesty’s Theatre continues to thrive as a cultural hub for the city.
Aberdeen Performing Arts Chief Executive Sharon Burgess said: “His Majesty’s Theatre is more than just a stage – it is a place where communities come together, young talent is nurtured, and creativity thrives. With this campaign, we are inviting everyone who loves our theatre and believes in the power of the arts to join us in shaping its future. Every gift helps us open doors, support emerging talent, and ensure the next 120 years are even brighter.”
Supporters can contribute to the campaign in a number of ways, from donations, partnerships, and participating in fundraising events helping to ensure the theatre continues to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike.
Donations can be given through a Just Giving page or provided when booking tickets through the box office. Audiences can sponsor a seat at HMT at a 12.0% discount throughout 2026 to have a personalised message on their chosen seat and leave a cherished legacy at the venue.
Two exciting landmark events to celebrate His Majesty’s Theatre are being planned for announcement in the Spring with proceeds contributing to the fundraising campaign. Alongside this, a series of community and fundraising events will run throughout the year around HMT 120. The first of these events include a special Quiz Night taking place in The Terrace at His Majesty’s Theatre on Wednesday, February 25. Tickets are on sale now to Friends of Aberdeen Performing Arts and on general sale on Thursday, January 8, available from www.aberdeenperformingarts.com, phone (01224) 641122 or visit the box office at His Majesty’s Theatre or the Music Hall.
Further gifting and donation options can be found online with details of how to contact Aberdeen Performing Arts to discuss. More information about HMT 120 can be found at aberdeenperformingarts.com/HMT-120.
