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Gaiety Theatre

This collection includes architectural plans, leaflets, photographs, presscuttings, programmes and posters.

The Gaiety first opened on 1 October 1902 and was designed by a local architect J. McHardy Young. The interior had two tiers, could accommodate 1,200 and cost £9, 500. Ayr Gaiety survived two devastating fires, the first in 1903, less than a year after the theatre opened, and the second in 1955.

For nearly half of its lifetime, from 1925 until 1973, the theatre was controlled by the Popplewell family.  In November 1973 the Gaiety was bought by Ayr Town Council for £72,000.

The Gaiety Whirl shows began in the 1930s. Major stars of the day appeared there on a regular basis, such as Dave Willis, who topped the bill in these shows during the 1930s and 40s. In the 1950s other star names also began to appear, such as Jack Milroy who topped the bill in the mid 50s, before going on to form his legendary partnership with Rikki Fulton. 

How to find material relating to the Gaiety Theatre

See also

  • The Gaiety Theatre: the project to re-lauch the Gaiety

  • National Library of Scotland: Scottish Theatre Programmes database: collection of programmes, playbills and posters. These items from theatres and other venues date from the 19th century onwards

 

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