Once enjoyed only by royals and VIPs, sitting in a private viewing box at the theatre was the ultimate status symbol.
Arts fans can relive those days in Aberdeen now that the historic Tivoli Theatre has unveiled its first refurbished box.
Simmons and Company International celebrated the completion of their sponsored section a year after the company’s chief executive Colin Welsh signed a contract pledging support for the renovation project.
The grade-A listed building, in Guild Street, was bought by Brian Hendry in 2009.
But after last being used as a bingo hall in 1998, the theatre was in a state of total disrepair.
The Tivoli Theatre Company received a £508,700 award from The Green Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI), which has invested £2.4million to help restore historic buildings in the area.
Mr Welsh said: “We couldn’t turn down the opportunity to play a part in restoring one of Aberdeen’s cultural landmarks.
“The Tivoli was at the centre of entertainment in the city and to see it restored to its former glory for future generations to enjoy is fantastic. Brian Hendry and his team deserve great credit for their effort and dedication.”
When the renovation work is completed, the auditorium will seat 450 people with five sky boxes and a theatre bar.
Mr Hendry said: “Simmons has been incredibly supportive of the renovation of the Tivoli Theatre and with the help of local businesses and individuals we are able to bring this wonderful and historic building back to life.
“When Colin came to see us in 2012, the place was in pieces and it was in desperate need of some care and attention.
“That day Colin signed a contract to support the renovation of one of our viewing boxes.
“It’s incredibly humbling to think that companies such as Simmons International want to invest in the local community and we are extremely grateful.”
The first performance at the 141-year-old building will be the Russian Classical Gala, in aid of children’s charity Aberlour.
Dancers from the Russian Ballet Theatre will perform scenes from the likes of the Nutcracker and Swan Lake.
The ballet company will be joined by acclaimed soprano Oxana Lesnichaya from the world-famous Bolshoi Theatre.
The performance will take place on Saturday.