Diners at one of Aberdeen’s cultural landmarks will now be able to consume a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse of stage performances from the past year.
A series of snapshots taken by the Press and Journal photographers Kami Thomson and Kenny Elrick are now on display upstairs in the 1906 Restaurant at His Majesty’s Theatre.
Given full access backstage at several productions throughout the year, the keen-eyed pair captured some stunning black and white images which give an insight into the preparations which take place behind the scenes at the historic venue.
Covering a 12-month period, the intimate stills show the bustle of activity going on before the curtains are raised and the final details are complete.
Press and Journal assistant head of photographic David Bradley said the thinking behind the permanent exhibition was to simply to “celebrate” Aberdeen’s culture.
He said: “We wanted to showcase what our picture team do, whilst also highlighting the vast range of performances that come to perform at HMT. We plan to keep adding and updating the exhibition moving forward.”
Included in the show are backstage stills from Scottish Opera’s production of Mikado and Scottish Ballet’s Swan Lake shot during performances.
The photos offer a look at stolen moments of the dressing rooms as make-up artists and wardrobe assistants help the stars with their final preparations.
Other productions under scrutiny included Jackie the Musical and the Whitney Houston Tribute Show.
The exhibition has been hailed by Jane Spiers, chief executive at Aberdeen Performing Arts who last night she said she hoped visitors will enjoy the unique viewpoints and added: “These stunning photographs give a rare glimpse backstage at the theatre and we’re very pleased to be exhibiting them in our theatre restaurant.”