Euan McGrory: Rebirth of Leith Theatre a major milestone for Edinburgh music scene

Thousands of music fans retain fond memories of Leith Theatre from its heyday as a gig venue in the 1970s and 1980s. Then it was Thin Lizzy and AC/DC that felt as though they made the walls shake. This summer it will be Jesus and Mary Chain and Django Django bringing the auditorium back to life again after 30 years.

Tonight is a major milestone for Edinburgh’s vibrant music scene. When Fife singer-songwriter King Creosote takes to the stage in the first of a series of Edinburgh International Festival concerts, it will be nothing short of the theatre’s rebirth as a concert venue.

There is no doubt it has the potential to be Edinburgh’s answer to Glasgow’s famous Barrowlands, especially with the growing likelihood the tram will soon stop near its door. The next three weeks should prove that amd hopefully kickstart the multi-million pound investment needed to ensure its longterm future as a modern venue.

Everyone involved, including the council and Hidden Door and international festivals, deserves praise. Leith’s motto Persevere seems apt today.