Issuu

The arts create opportunity, spark conversation and strengthen communities.

Contents Reflecting on experiences, successes and partnerships

Welcome...................................................................................................4 About Aberdeen Performing Arts............................................................6 Our Year in Numbers................................................................................8 Economic Impact...................................................................................10 Social Impact..........................................................................................12 Sector Investment..................................................................................16 HMT 120..................................................................................................18 Our Audiences........................................................................................20 Presented Programme...........................................................................22 Curated Festivals....................................................................................24 Commissioning, Co-producing and Partnerships................................26 Conference and Events..........................................................................28 Engagement and Communities.............................................................30 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion...........................................................32 Sustainability..........................................................................................34 Buildings and Heritage...........................................................................36 People & Culture.....................................................................................38 Financial Overview.................................................................................40 Supporters and Staff .............................................................................44

Cover Images: Front: International Season 2025, DON GNU: Women in Socks and Sandals, Lemon Tree, July 2025. Rear: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, His Majesty’s Theatre, June 2025.

Welcome from the Chair It gives me great pleasure to introduce Aberdeen Performing Arts’ Annual Review.   As Chair, I am very proud to be associated with the great work delivered by the team at Aberdeen Performing Arts. As an organisation we are very ambitious and you will see from reading this Review the breadth of creativity and community engagement demonstrated across all aspects of our work.     This year, we’ve delivered an inspiring programme across all our venues and continued to focus on accessibility and inclusion. We have continued to invest in our staff and volunteers as the people who bring our vision to life. We have made good progress on moving towards environmental sustainability, although there is still more to do.    I’d like to thank our Board members who continue to ensure good oversight, providing challenge whilst supporting the team to deliver on our bold organisational strategy.   On behalf of the Board, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to our committed staff and volunteers, artists, funders, and partners.   We wouldn’t be here without our audiences; through your belief in the power of the arts Aberdeen Performing Arts continues to thrive and grow.   We look forward to building on this momentum together in the year ahead. Edel Harris OBE, Chair, Aberdeen Performing Arts

Welcome from the Chief Executive Every year brings new opportunities and new challenges, and 2025/26 has been no exception. Looking back, what stands out most is the commitment of the people behind Aberdeen Performing Arts and the difference they make every day. Our purpose is simple: to bring the joy of arts, creativity and live performance to all. This year we welcomed almost 394,000 attendances across our venues, delivered more than 800 performances and created opportunities for thousands of people to take part in creative activity. Behind every performance, festival, workshop and event is a team of people who care deeply about making our venues welcoming, inspiring and accessible. I have been particularly proud to see how colleagues across the organisation have embraced change while never losing sight of why we are here. We have invested in our people, completed the transformation of the Lemon Tree, strengthened partnerships with artists and organisations across Scotland and beyond, and continued to remove barriers so that more people can experience the arts in ways that work for them. We know there is still much to do. The cultural sector continues to face financial pressures and changing expectations, but I remain confident about the future. Our ambition is matched by a talented team, strong partnerships and a shared belief that creativity has the power to enrich lives and strengthen communities. My sincere thanks go to our staff, volunteers, Trustees, artists, partners, supporters and funders for their commitment and generosity throughout the year. Above all, thank you to our audiences and participants. Your enthusiasm, encouragement and belief in what we do continue to inspire us, and we look forward to welcoming you back as we build on this year’s achievements together. Sharon Burgess, CEO / Creative Director, Aberdeen Performing Arts

About Aberdeen Performing Arts Aberdeen Performing Arts is proud to be one of Scotland’s leading cultural organisations, enriching lives and bringing people together through the power of creativity. Across our three iconic venues, His Majesty’s Theatre, the Music Hall and the Lemon Tree, we deliver a year-round programme of performances, festivals, learning opportunities and creative experiences that inspire audiences of all ages. As a registered charity, our purpose reaches far beyond the stage. We are committed to making the arts accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. By removing barriers to participation and creating welcoming, inclusive spaces, we help more people connect with culture, with each other and with their own creative potential. From internationally acclaimed productions and renowned touring artists to emerging local performers and community-led projects, we champion creativity at every level. Increasingly, Aberdeen Performing Arts is also commissioning and co-producing new work with arts organisations across the UK and internationally, helping to shape the cultural agenda rather than simply presenting it. Since launching the annual International Season in 2023, we have brought performers from Australia, New Zealand, Africa and across Europe to Aberdeen, creating opportunities for artistic collaboration, connecting local audiences with global talent and supporting more sustainable touring models.

The cultural cornerstone of the North-east

Together, the International Season and our co-producing partnerships reflect our ambition to develop new work, build long-term creative partnerships and strengthen Aberdeen’s position as an internationally connected cultural city. Our venues provide a platform for new ideas, diverse voices and shared experiences, helping to nurture talent and celebrate the rich cultural identity of the North-east. We are also proud to play a vital role in the region’s social, cultural and economic success. Through partnerships with schools, communities, artists and organisations, we support learning, wellbeing and regeneration while contributing to a vibrant city region. The arts create opportunity, spark conversation and strengthen communities, and we work every day to maximise that impact. Looking ahead, we remain ambitious for the future. By investing in artists, audiences and young people, developing new work, expanding our role as a producer and advancing our sustainability goals, we are helping to build a resilient cultural sector for generations to come. Together with our supporters, partners and audiences, we are shaping a future in which creativity continues to inspire, connect and transform lives across the North-east and beyond.

Our purpose reaches far beyond the stage

We are shaping the cultural agenda by commissioning and producing new work.

Our Year in Numbers Up

Performances Net Promoter Score (increasing our customer satisfaction

from 24-25

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Audie

from in 24-25

Workshop participants

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In 2025-2026, we consolidated our position as the cultural cornerstone of the North-east of Scotland by delivering, supporting and investing in arts and culture across the region

Satisfaction rating Up from

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on 24-25

ences

Visitors Million

rtists worked with Up

Number of workshops

*A net promoter score (NPS) is a metric used to customer loyalty by asking someone if they would recommend a company, product or service. Anything over 70 is considered exceptional with the current average at 32.

Economic impact

Supporting the economy in the North-east

Aberdeen Performing Arts is key to economic infrastructure for the North-east. It generates £49.9m in local economic activity, brings 1.5m visits into Aberdeen, supports spending and employment across multiple sectors, and turns every £1 of core funding into £10.78 of self-generated income. Its value lies not only in what happens on stage, but in the economic activity those stages make possible. Each year, our activity generates almost 1.5 million visits to Aberdeen, creating valuable opportunities for businesses across the hospitality, retail, transport and accommodation sectors. In 2025-2026, more than half of our audiences travelled from outside the city centre, bringing additional spending and economic activity that benefits the wider local economy. Our impact extends well beyond the audiences we attract. Through our programme of performances, festivals, conferences, events and community activities, we support a wide network of artists, freelancers, contractors, suppliers and partner organisations. By prioritising local partnerships wherever possible, we help ensure that investment in culture delivers benefits throughout the region.

The value of our contribution is recognised by our audiences. 97% of respondents to our audience surveys agreed that Aberdeen Performing Arts is important to the local economy, while 42% said our absence would influence their decision to live or work in the city. These figures underline the growing importance of culture in attracting and retaining talent, supporting wellbeing and enhancing Aberdeen’s reputation as a desirable place to live. Our financial performance reflects the scale of this impact. Last year, Aberdeen Performing Arts generated £14.3 million in income, including more than £11 million from ticket sales and £2.5 million through our trading activities. This strong performance helps ensure our long-term sustainability while enabling us to continue investing in culture, communities and economic growth. Culture is a powerful driver of prosperity. By attracting visitors, supporting jobs and creating experiences that enrich everyday life, Aberdeen Performing Arts continues to play a vital role in shaping a confident, ambitious and economically vibrant future for the North-east.

We help create a vibrant, attractive place to live, work and visit.

Generating for the local economy Total Dining out

£5,548,678.57

Travel

£4,124,682.04

Accommodation

£2,826,393.65

Other spend

£7,152,760.21

Ticket sales

£11,600,912.00

Staff costs

£5,924,655.10

Contractor costs

£12,749,867.00

Total

£49,927,948.56

Did you know?... Our economic impact on the North-east grew by 7% year-on-year

Staff and contractor costs include the government multiplier.

Social impact

Our civic and social contribution

This year, for the first time, we measured the social impact of our work, helping us better understand the difference Aberdeen Performing Arts makes to individuals and communities across the North-east. Working with research specialists TIALT, we gathered feedback from participants and audiences involved in our Take Part workshops, Light the Blue and the Aberdeen Queer Arts Festival. The findings highlighted the lasting social value of our work, demonstrating how creativity can strengthen confidence, connection, and community. Across all programmes, participants described their experiences as welcoming, inclusive and emotionally rewarding. Many highlighted the supportive atmosphere created by our staff and artists, and the value of having a space where they felt able to connect, express themselves and take part with confidence. Light the Blue and the Aberdeen Queer Arts Festival each reached distinct audiences and addressed different community needs, together creating a rich and balanced programme of creative engagement. Light the Blue showcased the talent, imagination and achievements of young people, fostering a strong sense of pride and ownership. Meanwhile, the Aberdeen Queer Arts Festival provided a powerful platform for representation, visibility and accessibility,

particularly for LGBTQ+ and disabled communities. For many, it offered a sense of belonging and emotional safety, encouraging renewed engagement with arts and culture. Some of the most significant impacts were seen through our Take Part workshops. Through hands-on creative activities, collaboration and performance, participants developed new skills, increased their confidence and discovered new ways to express themselves. Just as importantly, they built meaningful connections with others. Friendships were formed, confidence flourished and participants reported a stronger sense of belonging within their communities and even within their own families.

Friendships were formed, confidence flourished and communities were strengthened. Our Creative Engagement programme sits alongside our commercial activity, but its purpose is distinct. It invests in people, strengthens communities and enriches the social fabric of our region. This research provides an invaluable benchmark as we continue to learn, grow and maximise our impact - ensuring creativity remains a force for connection, opportunity and positive change.

Creativity remains a force for connection, opportunity and positive change.

Social impact

Our civic and social contribution

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“I’ve felt like part of a community and loved for being myself”

“Thursday is never a lonely evening”

"The festival has opened another queer space for m

“I loved the scrip

“I gained the courage to speak out.” "Youth Theatre has boosted my confidence" “It made me feel more relatable to my parents” “Hopefully helped my brain from getting old.”

now

me.”

“I feel really good and accepted”

“It was so fun I got to express myself.”

that we all had a part in pt and it was fun”

Sector investment In 2025-2026, Aberdeen Performing Arts continued to make significant investments and create meaningful opportunities in the North-east’s cultural sector. We strengthened our position as a producer and commissioner, contributing on a national level while ensuring representation of the region, and ensured freelance creatives, artists and partners continue to receive opportunities and support, cementing our position as a cultural cornerstone of the North-east. We were proud to be producing partners on two major productions: St Joan, with Raw Material and Perth Theatre, and The High Life, with National Theatre of Scotland, Dundee Rep and Capital Theatres. Both productions toured across the UK, extending the reach of work developed in partnership with Aberdeen Performing Arts. The High Life also won Best Ensemble at the Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland. We are now developing a new production of Guys and Dolls with Scottish producing partners, bringing the classic musical to audiences across the country in 2027. We have commissioned and cocommissioned several productions. Our everpopular annual Christmas show at the Lemon Tree for younger children has gone from strength to strength and following an open call, we confirmed three productions to be commissioned jointly by Aberdeen Performing

Forging partnerships, creating opportunities, providing support Arts, Capital Theatres and Eden Court to run between 2026-2028. We co-commissioned and co-produced Tongue Twister, the second production in our ongoing partnership with Imaginate. The show was performed at Light the Blue 2025 and was award-nominated. Our art spaces provide the canvas for artists to showcase their work with a yearround programme of art exhibitions and installations. We hosted nine exhibitions including two new digital commissions along with three new art commissions and partnerships with Gray’s School of Art and Grampian Hospital Arts Trust.   Our festivals also created practical routes into the creative industries. Internships at Granite Noir and Light the Blue gave emerging professionals hands-on experience, while the addition of two new festivals expanded employment, skills development and networking opportunities for freelancers, artists and local communities. As the cultural cornerstone of the Northeast, Aberdeen Performing Arts continues to invest in the region’s creative ecosystem. By commissioning new work, supporting artists at every stage of their careers and building partnerships across Scotland, we are helping create a stronger, more connected and more sustainable cultural sector.

Aberdeen Performing Arts continues to invest in the region’s creative ecosystem.

HMT 120

Celebrating our past, inspiring our future

For 120 years, His Majesty’s Theatre has been at the heart of Aberdeen’s cultural life - a place where generations have come together to laugh, reflect, celebrate and be inspired. Through HMT 120, we are marking this remarkable milestone with a year-long campaign that honours our rich heritage, celebrates the people who bring the theatre to life and invests in its future. Launched in January 2026, the campaign combines celebration with purpose, uniting our audiences, supporters and communities behind a shared ambition to raise £120,000 for the future of creative engagement across the North-east. It officially began with a special Cocktail Party on the historic HMT stage, welcoming guests to celebrate a venue that has hosted some of the greatest names in theatre and entertainment over the last 12 decades. Since then, HMT 120 has become a celebration that everyone can be part of. Alongside flagship events including a Gala Dinner and an Opera Gala with Scottish Opera, the campaign has featured a wide range of affordable and accessible activities throughout the year. Open days, quiz nights, Sip & Paint sessions, backstage experiences, on-stage

fitness classes and family-friendly events have invited people of all ages to celebrate the theatre in ways that suit them. Staff have also played a leading role, organising fundraising challenges and taking part in activities that have brought colleagues together while helping drive the campaign towards its fundraising goal. Our archives have also played a central role in the celebrations. Through treasured photographs, fascinating stories and cherished memories, we have connected audiences with the theatre’s extraordinary past, sparking conversations across generations and reminding us of the special place HMT holds in the hearts of so many. Most importantly, HMT 120 is about legacy. Every pound raised will be reinvested into community and participation programmes, helping more people discover the transformative power of the arts. As we celebrate 120 years of history, we are also creating new opportunities for the future. Through HMT 120, we want to reach further, shine brighter and build the future for generations to come.

As we celebrate 120 years of history, we are creating new opportunities for the future.

Our Audiences

Audiences at the heart of our ambition

In 2025–26, almost 394,000 people attended performances, festivals and events across our venues, reaffirming Aberdeen Performing Arts’ position as the cultural cornerstone of the North-east. While overall attendance was slightly lower than the previous year, we saw encouraging growth in audience development, customer experience and geographic reach, creating a stronger platform for the future. Welcoming new audiences remains central to our ambitions. This year, almost 20,000 people attended Aberdeen Performing Arts for the first time, representing a 7% increase in new customers. At the same time, we maintained the loyalty of our existing audiences, with Friends membership remaining stable and continuing to play an important role in our cultural community. Our reach also expanded beyond the region. More than one in five audience members travelled from outside Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, demonstrating the growing appeal of our programme and our contribution to Aberdeen’s reputation as a cultural destination. Through ambitious programming, festivals and partnerships, we continue to bring the world to Aberdeen while showcasing the city as a stage for exceptional cultural experiences.

Audience satisfaction reached new heights. Feedback from around 11,500 post-show surveys resulted in a Net Promoter Score of 74, an increase on the previous year, while 96% of respondents rated the quality of performances as good or very good. These results reflect our commitment to delivering outstanding experiences at every stage of the customer journey. Bold and inclusive programming also helped us connect with new communities. The launch of the Aberdeen Queer Arts Festival created opportunities for audiences to re-engage with arts and culture, while productions such as Hamlet by Teatro La Plaza demonstrated the power of theatre to challenge perceptions, spark conversation and create unforgettable shared experiences. As we look ahead, we remain ambitious. Through a new network of Audience Development Champions and a continued focus on insight, innovation and accessibility, we are committed to growing, diversifying and deepening our relationship with audiences, ensuring culture continues to thrive across the North-east.

We continue to bring the world to Aberdeen while showcasing the city as a cultural destination.

“It was the best piece of theatre I have ever been immersed in” Hamlet audience member

Presented programme In 2025–26, Aberdeen Performing Arts presented more than 800 performances across His Majesty’s Theatre, the Music Hall and the Lemon Tree, delivering an ambitious programme that entertained, inspired and connected audiences from across the North-east. Together, our venues welcomed an extraordinary range of theatre, music, dance, comedy, family entertainment and spoken word, bringing world-class artists and memorable live experiences to the region. Through strong relationships with leading producers, national companies, local organisations and emerging artists, we continue to ensure audiences in Aberdeen experience the very best of the performing arts right on their doorstep. At His Majesty’s Theatre, we brought major touring productions, acclaimed theatre and Scotland’s national companies to the Northeast, reinforcing the venue’s position as one of Scotland’s leading theatres. As the theatre celebrates its 120th anniversary, the year also provided an opportunity to reflect on its remarkable legacy and enduring role in the cultural life of Aberdeen and beyond. The Music Hall presented a broad programme of music, comedy, literature and live conversation, welcoming renowned musicians, orchestras, authors, speakers and

Bringing the best to the North-east performers. The venue also played a leading role in some of the region’s biggest cultural events, including Light the Blue, Granite Noir and the Aberdeen Comedy Festival. Expanding beyond its traditional one-night format, it hosted a week-long run of Fawlty Towers, demonstrating the venue’s flexibility and growing appeal for longer theatrical engagements. At the Lemon Tree, creativity took centre stage. From breakthrough artists and emerging talent to established performers seeking a more intimate connection with audiences, the venue remained a vibrant home for new ideas, fresh voices and unforgettable live experiences. We hosted gigs from Callum Beattie and Nathan Evans, acts who are now playing arena level, perfectly demonstrating how the Lemon Tree offers the opportunity to see the biggest stars of the future in an intimate venue. Together, our venues provide a platform for exceptional touring work and help position Aberdeen as a leading cultural destination. Whether it is the thrill of a standing ovation, the excitement of discovering a new artist or the shared joy of a live performance, these experiences create lasting memories and demonstrate the unique power of the arts to bring people together.

APRIL 25

MAY 25

JUNE 25

JULY 25

AUGUST 25

SEPTEMBER 25

From breakthrough artists to major touring productions, creativity took centre stage.

OCTOBER 25

NOVEMBER 25

DECEMBER 25

JANUARY 26

FEBRUARY 26

MARCH 26

Curated festivals

Festivals that shape Aberdeen

2025–2026 marked a step change in Aberdeen Performing Arts’ festival programme. Through six curated festivals, we progressed Aberdeen’s reputation as a cultural destination, created new opportunities for artists and communities, and delivered experiences that could only happen here. 2025-2026 was a landmark year in the development of Aberdeen Performing Arts’ festival portfolio as we strengthened our position as one of Scotland’s leading festival curators. Creating distinctive festivals is a key part of our organisational vision, enabling us to deliver experiences that are uniquely Aberdeen while further instilling civic pride, supporting the visitor economy and celebrating the people and places that make our city special. Throughout the year, our festivals brought communities together, showcased artistic excellence and created opportunities for participation, discovery and connection. Light the Blue reached new heights, becoming our largest festival to date. More than 1,400 young people took part, helping to create a city-wide celebration enjoyed by over 9,000 audience members. Their energy, creativity and talent transformed venues and public spaces, demonstrating the power of culture to inspire confidence and bring communities together. We proudly launched the inaugural Aberdeen Queer Arts Festival. Showcasing LGBTQ+ artists, stories and voices, the festival created space for celebration, representation and connection. It provided audiences with opportunities to

engage with powerful artistic experiences while fostering a strong sense of belonging and visibility. Aberdeen Comedy Festival was reimagined and revitalised, attracting more than 15,000 attendances and bringing some of the biggest names in comedy to the city alongside the most exciting emerging talent from across the UK. Meanwhile, Granite Noir celebrated its tenth anniversary with a refreshed identity, reaffirming its reputation as one of Scotland’s most distinctive literary festivals. Our International Season continued to grow in confidence and ambition, welcoming artists and companies from Africa, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Delve, curated by acclaimed Orkney musician Chris Stout, explored the culture and creativity of the Northern Isles through music, film, spoken word and workshops, resonating strongly with audiences across the region – many of whom reside in Aberdeen but are from the Isles. Together, these festivals demonstrate Aberdeen Performing Arts’ role as a cultural curator for the city. By commissioning distinctive programmes, supporting artists, creating opportunities for participation and attracting visitors, we are helping shape Aberdeen’s cultural identity and future. Together, our festivals position Aberdeen as a stage for world-class cultural experiences. They animate the city, attract visitors, support local businesses and create moments that inspire pride, connection and a lasting sense of place.

DELVE

GRANITE NOIR

LIGHT THE BLUE

INTERNATIONAL SEASON

ABERDEEN COMEDY FESTIVAL

ABERDEEN QUEER ARTS FESTIVAL

Through six distinctive festivals, we are helping shape Aberdeen’s cultural identity.

almost double the audience in the space of a year more performances more artists

Our festivals bring communities together, champion artists and position Aberdeen as a year-round cultural destination.

Commissioning, co-producing and partnerships Making the North-east a creative hub Great theatre is rarely created by one organisation alone. In 2025–2026, Aberdeen Performing Arts worked with theatres, festivals, producers and artists across Scotland to commission new work, share expertise and bring ambitious productions to audiences in the North-east. These partnerships are helping build a stronger creative sector while giving local audiences access to work that might otherwise never reach the region. By working alongside leading producing companies and cultural organisations, we are investing in artists, supporting innovation and contributing to a thriving national creative sector. This year, we were proud producing partners on two major theatre productions, St Joan, alongside Raw Material and Perth Theatre, and The High Life, in partnership with the National Theatre of Scotland, Dundee Rep and Capital Theatres. Both productions received recognition at the 2026 CATS Awards, with St Joan nominated in three categories and The High Life receiving five nominations and winning Best Ensemble. In June 2025, we co-commissioned and co-produced the second production in our ongoing partnership with Imaginate and the Edinburgh International Children’s Festival with Tongue Twister. The production

went on to receive award recognition, further demonstrating the value of investing in innovative work for young audiences. Our commitment to creating high-quality theatre for families also resumed through the Lemon Tree Christmas Show. Following a successful open call, we continued a threeyear commissioning partnership with Capital Theatres and Eden Court, supporting the creation and touring of new productions across Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Inverness. This exciting collaboration began with A Land Beyond Winter by Curious Seed and continues with Snowy and Bananas for Christmas over the coming seasons. We also joined the Dance Consortium, a significant step that expands access to internationally acclaimed dance companies for audiences in the North-east. Through this partnership, thousands experienced inspiring performances including MÁM by Michael Keegan-Dolan and Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo. By expanding our commissioning, coproducing and creative partnerships, we are helping to put Aberdeen firmly on the map as a centre for artistic innovation, creating opportunities for artists, enriching cultural life and bringing exceptional new work to audiences across Scotland.

We are helping to put Aberdeen firmly on the map as a centre for artistic innovation.

“Imaginate and Aberdeen Performing Arts have built a strong relationship over the past few years, both artistically and through our shared values and way of working. It has been a delight being able to co-produce works for Family Day, works that have gone on to tour across Scotland and other festivals and additionally our Expo Commissions, which have gone on to tour as part of Made in Scotland and garnered international interest. We look forward to finding ways to deepen this partnership moving forward.” Belinda McElhinny, Chief Executive at Imaginate

Conference and events Conferences and events have become an increasingly important part of Aberdeen Performing Arts’ future, with 2025–26 marking a year of significant growth and momentum. Through targeted investment in our team, resources and facilities, we have strengthened our position as a leading destination for events in the North-east, attracting new clients while delivering exceptional experiences in unique cultural settings. From conferences, business meetings and awards ceremonies to weddings, celebrations and commemorative gatherings, our venues provide flexible, inspiring spaces for every occasion. Located in the heart of Aberdeen, with excellent transport connections and easy access to accommodation, we offer an attractive and accessible destination for organisations and event planners alike. What sets us apart is the combination of outstanding venues and specialist expertise. The same teams that deliver world-class performances bring their creativity, technical knowledge and attention to detail to every event we host. Whether supporting a large-scale conference or an intimate celebration, we work closely with clients to create memorable experiences that exceed expectations. Through partnerships with trusted local suppliers and businesses, we also ensure that the economic benefits of these events are felt across the region.

A growing success story This year, we continued to build our profile in the sector by enhancing our digital presence, launching a dedicated conferences and events brochure and increasing engagement through networking and targeted marketing activity. These investments have strengthened awareness of our offer and generated a growing pipeline of opportunities. The results have been outstanding. Compared with the previous year, conferences and events increased by 46%, revenues grew by 68% and delegate attendance rose by 156%. We also welcomed a growing number of repeat clients, with 12 organisations now booking with us on an annual or bi-annual basis. As this part of the business continues to grow, it is making an increasingly important contribution to Aberdeen Performing Arts’ financial resilience. By diversifying income beyond ticket sales and public funding, conferences and events provide a stable commercial foundation that helps us manage financial pressures, invest in our venues and people, and continue delivering an ambitious artistic programme alongside meaningful community activity. This balanced income model leaves the organisation better placed to adapt, grow and fulfil our charitable mission for years to come.

We are strengthening our position as a leading destination for events in the North-east.

(up from 17,206)

(up from 61 the year before)

(up from 1,433)

of all enquiries resulted in a delivered event (up from £107,382)

Engagement and communities In 2025–26, our Engagement programme continued to grow in reach, impact and ambition, creating opportunities for people across the North-east to connect with creativity, develop new skills and experience the arts in meaningful ways. Guided by our belief that the arts are for everyone, our work is rooted in inclusion, community and collaboration, underpinned by our commitment that Everyone Is Welcome Here. At the heart of the programme were our Take Part workshops, which ran across three ten-week terms and welcomed participants from ages one to 19+. For some, these sessions represented a first experience of the arts, for others they provided a pathway to develop skills, confidence and aspirations for the future. Together, they created supportive spaces where creativity could flourish and young people could find their voice. Opportunities for lifelong participation remained equally important. Our Encore! script reading group, delivered in partnership with Ten Feet Tall, and Community Choir both sold out every term, bringing people together through a shared love of creativity. Participants spoke of the positive impact these groups had on their wellbeing, confidence and sense of belonging, while also providing valuable social and cognitive benefits.

Arts without boundaries

“I haven’t been to events in such a long time due to my health…the festival has now opened another queer space for me.” The launch of the Aberdeen Queer Arts Festival marked a significant milestone in our engagement work. By creating a platform for LGBTQ+ artists and audiences, the festival fostered connection, representation and visibility. Many participants described it as a welcoming and emotionally safe space that encouraged them to re-engage with arts and culture. We also delivered our largest-ever Light the Blue, celebrating the creativity of more than 1,400 young people and creating opportunities for schools, families and communities across the city to take part and be inspired. New partnerships expanded our reach even further. Working with Raven Afrikulture, we welcomed new audiences through a dynamic series of music events celebrating Black and people of colour artists from Scotland and beyond. Accessibility remained a priority throughout the year. From no-questions-asked free Take Part places to providing 76 families with an unforgettable pantomime experience at no cost, we continued to ensure that financial circumstances were never a barrier to experiencing the joy and power of the arts.

Creativity flourishes when people feel welcomed, supported and able to belong. “Hopefully helped my brain from getting old.” Community Choir participant

workshops

school workshops

adult workshops

participating children

participating adults

Equity, diversity and inclusion Making everyone feel welcomed and represented Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is not a standalone initiative at Aberdeen Performing Arts, it is a core part of who we are and how we work. Guided by our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan, we are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels welcomed, represented and able to participate, both on and off our stages. This year began with a significant achievement as His Majesty’s Theatre was recognised as Inclusive Indoor Venue at the Wee Too Awards. The accolade was particularly meaningful because it was driven by customer nominations, reflecting the experiences of those who visit our venues and engage with our work. We continued to strengthen our commitment through investment in our people, including the appointment of a dedicated Changemaker for Inclusion and Relevance . This role enhances our access services and processes, ensuring that our organisation continues to reflect and respond to the diverse communities we serve. We are delivering a new programme of work, which has been designed to create a welcoming and supportive space for neurodivergent audiences and artists. Accessibility remained a priority across our artistic programme. Alongside our regular programme of BSL interpreted, captioned,

audio-described and relaxed performances, we introduced our first Makaton signed performance, opening new opportunities for audiences to engage with live theatre. Productions such as Hamlet, featuring eight actors with Down syndrome, demonstrated the power of inclusive storytelling to challenge perceptions, celebrate difference and create unforgettable cultural experiences. The impact of this work is reflected in audience feedback. Ninety-seven per cent of respondents reported that our venues met their access requirements, while 95% said they were treated fairly and sensitively by our team. Staff development continued to underpin this work, with scenario‑based learning helping teams deliver sensitive, confident and person‑centred support. Practical improvements also made a real difference. We streamlined the process for our essential companion scheme. This has reduced friction and improved dignity, giving customers greater independence when booking, removing the need for repeated explanations. We also introduced a new physical Access Guide, co-designed with partners and service users, ensuring lived experience shaped the content. The guide plays a key role in pre‑visit confidence, helping to reduce anxiety and ensure people more prepared when visiting our venues.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is a core part of who we are and how we work. Accessible Performances across our venues

Accessibility is not an addition to our programme, it is fundamental to it.

Sustainability Sustainability is a growing priority for Aberdeen Performing Arts, and throughout 2025–2026 we made meaningful progress in embedding environmental responsibility across every aspect of our organisation. From investment in infrastructure and operations to community engagement and sector partnerships, we are taking practical steps to reduce our impact while inspiring action through creativity and collaboration. A significant milestone was the appointment of our new Changemaker for Climate Action, a pioneering role focused on engaging communities, audiences and partners in conversations around climate change and the opportunities for collective action. Through a programme of workshops and events, we used creativity as a catalyst for dialogue, helping to connect environmental issues with the experiences of people across the North-east. Alongside this outward-facing work, we strengthened our internal approach to sustainability. Staff played an active role in a series of initiatives designed to reduce our environmental footprint, including improving recycling practices, reducing the use of singleuse products and completing further upgrades to energy-efficient LED lighting across our venues. Our Green Stage programme also provided dedicated, supported time for colleagues to contribute to climate-focused projects and initiatives.

Driving change through creativity Investment in our estate and operations continued. A major upgrade to the building management system at His Majesty’s Theatre enhanced our ability to monitor and manage energy use. A signficiant refurbishment programme at the Lemon Tree, whilst providing an enhanced customer experience, also allowed us to reduce our footprint through more energy efficient lighting and electrical systems. Replacing our company vehicle with a hybrid van represents another step towards reducing emissions across our operations. This year also marked the beginning of a threeyear partnership with sustainability specialists Beyond Green. Together, we are developing a robust framework for measuring impact, tracking progress and identifying opportunities to accelerate carbon reduction across the organisation. Collaboration remains central to our approach. Through partnerships with organisations including The Barn and Culture for Climate Scotland, alongside ongoing engagement with visiting companies such as Scottish Ballet, we are working collectively to share knowledge, challenge thinking and develop more sustainable ways of creating and presenting culture. Sustainability is a journey, not a destination. By embracing innovation, investing in change and working together, we are building a more resilient future for our organisation, our communities and the cultural sector.

We are using creativity as a catalyst for climate action and positive change.

Did you know?... In 2025-2026, we introduced a series of six sustainability workshops around climate change and wildlife that were attended by staff, partners and public with activities featuring music, crafts and food.

Buildings and heritage Our venues are among Aberdeen’s most important cultural assets, and we are committed to ensuring they remain inspiring, accessible and fit for the future. As custodians of His Majesty’s Theatre, the Music Hall and the Lemon Tree, we continue to invest in our buildings, facilities and people so they can support creative excellence and serve communities for generations to come. A major achievement this year was the completion of the Lemon Tree refurbishment. The project successfully preserved the venue’s distinctive character while delivering significant improvements throughout the building. Enhanced lighting and sound systems, new seating, a fully replaced lift, roofing improvements, upgraded flooring and improved security and fire safety measures have transformed the visitor experience while safeguarding the building’s future. Alongside this landmark project, we continued a programme of maintenance and improvement across all venues. Conservation work at His Majesty’s Theatre and the Music Hall helped protect important architectural features, while upgrades to access control systems strengthened security and operational resilience. A new public address system at His Majesty’s Theatre also ensured continued compliance and enhanced functionality.

Caring for our venues, investing in the future Our commitment to improvement extends beyond our buildings. Throughout the year, we invested in the development of our Operations and Technical teams, creating opportunities to learn from peers across the sector and share best practice. A visit to The Lowry in Salford provided valuable insight into innovative approaches to venue management, supporting continuous improvement across our organisation.

We are investing in our venues today to ensure they serve future generations. Every improvement made this year strengthens our ability to welcome audiences, support artists and protect these historic venues for the future. From major refurbishment projects to ongoing maintenance and staff development, we are building resilient, accessible and sustainable venues that continue to inspire audiences and support creativity across Aberdeen and the North-east.

Investment in our buildings supports exceptional experiences for audiences and artists alike.

People and culture During 2025–26, our focus shifted from implementing organisational change to embedding it. We concentrated on strengthening leadership, developing capability and ensuring our workforce is equipped to support both current delivery and our long-term ambitions. By investing in our people and organisational culture, we are building a resilient, futurefocused organisation ready to meet new opportunities and challenges. A key milestone was the creation of the new Director of People, Culture and Organisational Development role. Bringing together organisational development, people strategy, learning, culture, equality, diversity and inclusion this position provides a clear strategic focus for developing our people and supporting organisational growth. Governance was also strengthened through enhanced Board development, training and reporting, ensuring effective leadership and oversight across the organisation. We continued to nurture a culture of openness and collaboration through our employee led forum, regular trade union engagement and the contribution of our Employee Director on the Board. These structures help ensure staff voices are heard and play an active role in shaping the organisation’s future.

Investing in people, building for the future Investing in learning and development remained a priority. The full implementation of the FLOW Learning Management System has created a more consistent and accessible approach to training, professional development and performance management, providing colleagues with the tools and resources they need to develop and thrive. Looking ahead, we are committed to supporting the next generation of cultural professionals. Through internships, placements and festival opportunities, we expanded our early careers programme and created valuable pathways into the arts. Opportunities across Granite Noir and Light the Blue provided hands-on experience of delivering major cultural events, helping emerging professionals develop skills, confidence and industry knowledge. People remain at the heart of Aberdeen Performing Arts. By investing in talent, strengthening organisational culture and creating opportunities for growth, we are building a skilled and sustainable workforce that will help shape the future of culture in the North-east.

People remain at the heart of Aberdeen Performing Arts.

We are building a skilled and sustainable workforce for the future.

Financial overview The past year presented a challenging financial environment for Aberdeen Performing Arts, reflecting the pressures experienced across much of the charitable sector. Persistent inflationary pressures, coupled with unanticipated increases in staffing related costs, created significant financial challenges. An above-inflation increase in the Real Living Wage, set at two percentage points above RPI, together with changes to both the threshold and rate of Employer National Insurance contributions, generated an additional cost burden of approximately £200,000.

Investment in the leadership structure of our Trading Company, including the creation of a Head of Food & Beverage Operations role supported by two newly promoted Assistants, has driven continued growth across our bars, café and restaurant operations. This commercial focus has been complemented by a 91% increase in conference and events activity, achieved through the reconfiguration of resources and a proactive approach to positioning our venues as attractive destinations for meetings, seminars, exhibitions, dinners and other corporate events.

Despite these challenges, strong leadership, robust financial stewardship and prudent cost management enabled the organisation to significantly mitigate the impact. Through a continued focus on commercial development and income generation, Aberdeen Performing Arts has strengthened its position for future resilience, reducing the overall annual impact to an underlying deficit of £88,500. The organisation closes the year with a strong balance sheet and healthy reserves position.

Fundraising activity remained strong throughout the year. Successful applications to EventScotland, Aberdeen City Council’s Place Based Investment Fund and the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund provided vital support for investment in the fabric of our buildings and technology infrastructure, while also enabling delivery of the 10th anniversary of our renowned crime-writing festival, Granite Noir. In addition, a year-long fundraising campaign was launched to coincide with the 120th anniversary of His Majesty’s Theatre, with the ambition of raising £120,000 by the end of 2026. This represents one of the largest external fundraising campaigns undertaken by the organisation since its inception.

Income continues to be strong and diverse; in 2025/26 we generated £14.7 million, including £10.6 million from ticket sales, rentals and associated income; £2.5 million from donations and £1.6m in grants, supported by Theatre Tax Relief, Gift Aid and donations.

Aberdeen Performing Arts has strengthened its position for future resilience. The year also saw the completion of a significant IT infrastructure upgrade programme, helping to future-proof the organisation’s technology estate while enhancing cyber security resilience. Alongside investment in physical hardware, we introduced new software solutions designed to improve the customer experience and drive ancillary revenue opportunities. These improvements include enhanced digital ticketing functionality and advanced preorder capabilities, enabling customers to access tickets electronically and reducing venue queuing times through increased advance purchasing.

Financial overview Underlying performance for 2025/26 was £80,606 behind budget and £232,235 lower than the prior year, reflecting the impact of significant external cost pressures. In particular, increases to the Real Living Wage and changes to Employer National Insurance thresholds and rates resulted in unavoidable staffing cost increases. Through strong financial stewardship, cost control and growth in commercial income, the organisation was able to mitigate a substantial proportion of these additional costs. Supported by healthy reserves and continued success in diversifying income generation, Aberdeen Performing Arts remains financially resilient and well positioned to respond to future economic challenges.

It is important to note that whilst our Statutory Accounts reflect a deficit of (£793,262). This includes a depreciation charge of £679,539 relating to previous capital investment and which is fully covered by a designated unrestricted reserve held for this purpose. It also includes income and expenditure covered by specific restricted and unrestricted designated reserves of £24,829, which is often project related and where there is a timing difference between income and expenditure recognised. Removing both of these items reflects the underlying performance for the year which is articulated in the presented table.

Actual 2025/26

Budget 2025/26

Variance vs Budget

Prior Year 2024/25

Variance vs Prior Year

Statutory Accounts (£793,262) (£318,022) (£475,240) Reported Surplus / (Deficit) Depreciation (£679,539) (£663,835) (£15,704) Other Reserve (£24,829) (£202,472) £177,643 Movements - Restoration Levy £70,633 £250,402 (£179,769) - Other (£95,462) (£47,930) £21,415 (Sustainability, Lemon Tree, Light the Blue) Underlying (£88,894) (£8,088) (£80,806) £143,341 (£232,235) Performance Surplus / (Deficit) Targetted Investment (£178,494) £178,494 2024/25 Operating - Surplus / (£88,894) (£8,088) (£80,806) (£35,153) (Deficit)

(£53,741)

All figures are accurate at the point of publication.

Supporters and Staff Scott Adams Chris Addison Kevin Adzah Leon Agnew Wendy Aitkenhead Sandra Alexander Sam Allan Deva Allan Alison Allan Rosie Anderson Sara Andrews John Arije Olamide Ayeku Sai Vignesh Babu James Baillie-Ewen Kim Bain Evan Baranowski Nicola Barbour Elena Bassotti Josh Beagrie Eve Begg Annie Begg Sophie Bender Alastair Bews Murren Binnie Masha Biryukova Jordan Blackwood Darcey Blane Agnieszka Bledos Allison Blink Ailsa Blott Dana Blyth Josef Boon Hannah Bradley Croall Iain Broad Ailsa Brown Michael Bruce Kirsty Bruce Kerrie Bruce Ewen Bruce

Michelle Bruce Anna-Mariia Brynchak Bethany Buchan James Buchan Jessica Buchan Taymar Buckley Sharon Burgess Fran Burnett-Stuart Ciara Burns Bernice Burr Alexandra Butler Hannah Buyers Abigail Byrne Abbie Caldwell Rachel Campbell Glenda Carson Louise Chan Ursula Cheng Kieren Christie Fiona Christie Ellie Clark Dan Clark Lauren Clark Rose Clayton Katie Clyne Heather Collie Professor Christopher Collins Eilidh Connolly Paul Constable Shovonne Cordiner Nera Cornell Dearbhla Corr Mike Coumans Kathleen Cowie Catriona Cox Lesley Craib Eva Crawford-McKee Lesley Crerar Nick Cronin Sam Cullen

Fiona Cumming Jo Czesak Seumas Dale Kelly Davidson Hannah Davidson Lauren Delavere Greig Dempster Mae Diansangu Gabrielle Dickson Christine Dodds Joseph Dolden Aisling Donaghy Matthew Donaldson Keith Donaldson Adelle Downie Laura Doyle Isaac Duguid Nathan Duncan Geordie Duffy Duncan Louise Durham David Edwards James Ellson Azraai Effendi Heather Elrick Sam Erskine Lena Fabian Catherine Fahey Councillor Lee Fairfull Anna Fancett Martha Farquhar Neil Farquharson Ryan Ferguson Alyson Ferguson Nely Ferreira Chloe Findlay Morag Findlay Hugh Florence Scott Florence Katie Forbes Sophie Fordyce

Claire Forsyth Megan Fraser Hilda Frewin Jonathan Gale Louis Gale Andre Garcia Kirsty Gardiner Caitlin Garner Emma Gartland Toluwanimi Gbajumo Folasade George Margaret Gibson Roxane Girin Anna Glaba Gavin Gnerre Matt Godfrey Natalia Gonchar Flora Gosling Emily Grant Peter Grant Hadrian Gray Charlotte Gray Dan Greavey Chris Greig Councillor Martin Greig Amanda Haggart Alexandra Hall Alice Hammill Julie Harada Erin Harman Edel Harris OBE Rachel Harris Kirstin Helsby Councillor Dell Henrickson Jennifer Higgins Joe Highet Georgeanna Zahradka Hoey Gail Hogg Bethany Hogg Lewis Holmes

Alexander Horne Zsuzsanna Horvath Andy Howie Iain Hughes Bernard Humphrey Kieran Hutcheon Sarah Ikpefan Vicki Innes Mikey Innes Len Ironside Matt Irvine James Jaffray Sophie Johannesen Natasha Johnston Barry Johnstone Russell Jones Barbara Jones Zoe Joss Miller Keir Finlay Keir Joseph Kelly Anne Kenyon Vaclav Kerekanic Boyana Kirilova Andy Kite Ewelina Kloska Kristina Krasnoscoka Feliks Kulinska Rachael Lawson Joanne Learmonth Jason Legge David Little Cat Loss Hanna Louise Meg Love Gavin Low Lynn Low Henry Lumsden Annabel Lunney Kevin MacDonald

The names listed here are the colleagues who worked with us during 2025/26. The brilliant outcomes highlighted in the previous pages were only possible because of every one of you – thank you.

Supporters and Staff Miriam MacDonald Fiona MacDonald Daisy MacDonald-King Elaine MacGregor Mhiara Mackenzie Mitchell MacKenzie Catriona MacKenzie Rachel Maclachlan Lyndsey Macnamee Jasmin MacPherson Shona MacPherson Wendy Main Fiona Malcolm Craig Marr Eve Martin Mara Marxt Lewis Kyrstie Massie Gareth Masson Coleen Matheson Bradley McAllister Callum McArthur Dawn McCormick Erin McDonald Libby Mcdonald Connie McDonald Greg McDonald Zarah McGivern Ross McHardy Stevo McHugh Luke McKenzie Morven McLeod Karen McLeod Emma McLeod Nadia McQuaker-Kajiwara Emilia McVicar Olivia McVicar Laura McVicar Holly Meldrum Susan Middler Neil Miller

Grace Milne Steven Milne Dave Milne Angela Milne Daniel Kyle Minty Naomi Mitchell Stuart Mitchell Claire Moir Angela Molina Celia Morgan Millie Morrice Joe Morris Dan Morrison Daniel Morrison Eilidh Mouat Calum Muldoon Ashleigh Munro Heather Munro Karen Munro Erin Murray Watson Mutch Constance Nicholson Denis Donna Nicol Suzanne Noble Daniel Chukwue Nwachkwu Tom O’Neill Treasure Okam Samuel Onekutu Sarah Ord Elisabeth Osborne Scott Osborne Neil Oswald Alison Pashley Eleanor Paterson Rebecca Paterson Yolisa Phahle Alessandra Puglisi Ellie Rae Priyanka Rao Ramachandra Rao Janice Read

Bex Reid Steven Reid James Reid Darren Reilly Alan Rennie Eve Reynolds Paul Reynolds Charlie Richard Don Richardson Peter Roach Sam Robb Gregor Robb Emily Robertson Kiera Robertson Justine Robertson Lynne Robertson Sabina Robinson Stewart Robinson Sophie Rose Calum Ross Hannah Ross Carol Ross Jakob Rusin Atholl Salmond Eilidh Samson Julie Sandison Anna Seaman Lewis Shand Kyle Shand Matthew Sherratt Emma Sherry Mhairi Shewan Lateefat Bolanle Shittu Constanza Silva Signorelli Gabrielle Simpson Ross Sims Ankita Sinha Joe Skakles Karyse Slater David Small

Lauren Smillie Hollie Smith Lucy Smith Claudia Sneddon Stela Sniureviciene Elina Sopanen Fi Souter Meg Stanger Hannah Stephens Louise Stevenson Councillor Jennifer Stewart Nicole Stewart Callum Stuart Bob Summers Susan Summers Cara Sutherland Finlay Sutherland Lee Sutherland Reece Swain Eilidh Swan Adam Sweeney Sebastian Szommer Liam Tait Fiona Tamm Oliver Tate Elise Tattersall Georgia Tawse Adam Taylor Lewis Taylor Tetiana Teliatnyk Ivan Teliatnyk Libby Thomas Chloe Thompson Zoe Thomson Tom Thomson Lewis Todd Garrett Tomlinson Ben Torrie Helen Tough Chloe Turnbull

Louise Turnbull Lou Turnbull Olivia Turnbull Gladys Tyers Ihuaku Onyinyechi Uchechi-Okoro Ross Valentine Rianne van Ladesteijn Hannelore van Ommen Rachel Venturini Diana Vettese Karen Walton David Ward Denver Waren Alan Webster Craig Webster Kaitlyn Weir Natasha Westland Samantha Wetherly Helen Whalley Lesley Whitehouse Keith Whitelaw Gillian Whyte Susan Whyte Adam Whyte Rob Wilkins Linda Williamson Hal Willows Ritchie Kieran Wilson Lynsay Wilson Tiana Wilson Lucy Wiseman Amy Wiseman Fraser Wood Lesley-Anne Yeats Spike Young Kevin Yule

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