Rothesay Pavilion announces two new directors and is set to re-open in 2019

With the recent appointment of joint Artistic/Executive Directors - Jackie Shearer and Julie Tait, the countdown has also started until Rothesay Pavilion re-opens its doors towards the end of 2019 following a £14-million refurbishment. An internationally acknowledged modernist building, its design and purpose echoes the innovative approach and social values of the Bauhaus Movement that developed in 1919 until the 1930s.

The new directors are highly respected arts, cultural and business professionals. Between them have established and run successful organisations and programmed a range of events, from curating work with award-winning artists, commissioning art in the public realm and programming flagship venues for a range of audiences. Their work is underpinned by an extensive knowledge of the arts and cultural sector on a local, national and international scale.

The Pavilion is held in high regard, and its relaunch will play a pivotal role in the island's economic regeneration and social inclusion initiatives through increased tourism and an elevated national and international profile. Ambitions for future programming include artistic collaborations and accessible community workshops, offering wide appeal across generational boundaries and diverse cultural tastes.

The refurbishment has been overseen by Argyll and Bute Council in partnership with the Rothesay Pavilion Charity which was set up in 2014 by the Council to manage the Pavilion and the restoration of the building. The Pavilion's renaissance and re-opening is a fitting celebration in the centenary year of the founding of the Bauhaus.

In a joint statement, Jackie Shearer and Julie Tait said: 'Rothesay Pavilion has a much-loved place in Bute's history and heritage and brings fond memories to generations of Scots of time spent on happy island holidays. We are honoured and delighted to have been appointed to work with the people and communities of Bute to bring this wonderful building back to life.'

They added: 'Thanks to the funding and support given by the Scottish Government, Argyll and Bute Council, The National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the restoration returns The Pavilion to its role as a vibrant cultural centre for the local community, and, with its unique architecture and location, we are confident that it will become a magnet for national and international cultural and business tourism.'

Nick Merriman, Chair, Rothesay Pavilion said: 'The rebirth of the Pavilion is a triumph for the whole community, and represents a labour of love not just for the Pavilion's Board but for the entire island of Bute. To see Rothesay Pavilion restored to its former glory, delivering new and exciting cultural and economic opportunities, is a source of great pride and the realisation of a decades-held ambition.'

Len Scoullar, Provost of Argyll and Bute said: 'I'm pleased to welcome Jackie and Julie to their new roles. Progress on the refurbishment of the Pavilion is going well and we all very much look forward to the building opening its doors again later this year. I'd encourage anyone who previously visited the Pavilion to plan a return when it re-opens, and I'm confident the work being carried out will attract a new audience to Rothesay. The Pavilion, and the island itself, holds a special place in the hearts of many, and we look forward to the building once again become a cherished cultural and community hub.'

Mike Russell, MSP for Argyll and Bute who is also Cabinet Secretary for Government Business and Constitutional Relations in The Scottish Government added: 'The island of Bute represents a microcosm of the very best that Scotland has to offer. Spectacular scenery, world-class heritage, design and culture, a close-knit, welcoming community and expanding opportunities for sustainable, economic development. The Scottish Government is delighted to have supported this ambitious regeneration project, working with our partners, the Board and the community to deliver the successful rebirth of Rothesay Pavilion.'

Riona McMorrow, Acting Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said: 'It's exciting to see this jewel in Bute's heritage coming back to life. Its resurgence as a cultural venue for the local community and visitors will have a hugely positive impact on the town. We're delighted that, thanks to the people that play The National Lottery, we are helping put Rothesay Pavilion back as the beating heart of this popular island.'

https://rothesaypavilion.co.uk

Photo credit: Iseult Timmermans