A BELOVED Glasgow institution is set to open after redevelopment with a community-led procession through the area.
The Citizens Theatre is reopening after seven years, with plans for special performances and an opportunity for visitors to explore the revamped venue.
On August 23, two giant puppets inspired by Greek theatre goddesses Melpomene and Thalia will lead a procession of residents, performers and musicians as they escort the characters of Comedy and Tragedy to their theatrical home.
The theatre’s doors will then be thrown open for a weekend-long open house, where visitors can enjoy free access to workshops, pop-up events and the main stage.
Catrin Evans, participate director at the Citizens Theatre, said: "The Homecoming Festival is inspired by our fantastic new building which we know so many people are keen to get inside – but it's also about so much more.
"It's about reconnecting with our neighbours, welcoming new voices, and celebrating creativity itself as a form of home-making. We're offering a range of activities so that everyone and anyone can step into the Citizens Theatre, try something new, take themselves on a journey and feel that this space belongs to them."
From August 28 to September 5, the Homecoming Festival continues with guided tours, taster workshops, and special events.
Then, on September 12, live performance makes a return with Small Acts of Love, a new play by Frances Poet, featuring music by Deacon Blue's Ricky Ross.
October will see the opening of a new 150-seat Studio Theatre with productions by the theatre's community groups, including Close by the Young Co and Making Your Mark by the Citz Community Collective.
Executive director Kate Denby added: "The Citz has always been a theatre for the people of Glasgow – this Homecoming year invites everyone to be part of our next chapter."
A host of funders, including the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council, supported the Citizens Theatre's redevelopment.
For full event details, visit citz.co.uk.
