Perth Theatre and Concert Hall’s 125 Live! delivers economic and community impact

125 Live! (6–7 September), the landmark celebration of 125 years of Perth Theatre and 20 years of Perth Concert Hall, has been hailed a triumph by audiences, performers and local businesses alike, delivering significant economic and community impact to the region.

Over one weekend, 125 Live! welcomed over 4,400 attendees to Perth city centre, transforming Mill Street into a spectacular outdoor performance space. The festival hosted 200 artists from Scotland, the UK, and beyond, combining world-class cultural programming with community-driven participation, creating an unforgettable celebration of Perth’s creative spirit.

The event has generated a direct economic impact of £1.16 million, representing a £5.47 return on investment for every £1 of project funding received – a compelling demonstration of how cultural investment creates measurable value for the people and economy of Scotland. This milestone contributes to a 5% increase in Perth Theatre and Concert Hall’s total projected direct economic impact of £22.36 million for 2025/26, representing an £11.55 return on investment for every £1 of core public funding received, reinforcing the venues’ status as a driving force for Scotland’s cultural economy.

Audiences enjoyed a rich mix of performances, from internationally acclaimed artists such as Walt Disco, Valtos, Ross Ainslie & The Sanctuary Band, and Parliamo, to local groups including Perthshire Brass, Fair City Singers and the Mad Ferret Band. Families flocked to free daytime activities, while the evening programme showcased large-scale spectacle with music, dance, theatre, cutting-edge visuals and light shows.

Accessibility and inclusion were central to the celebrations: free ticket codes and the launch of a new Ticket Bank in partnership with Citizens Advice Bureau supported affordability; 48% of audiences used active or sustainable travel; and diverse communities were represented, with 26% of attendees under 16, 11% from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and 7% identifying as disabled, d/Deaf, neurodivergent or living with long-term health conditions. The event also partnered with CareSound Radio to reach care homes and sheltered housing across Perthshire.

Director of Perth Theatre and Concert Hall, Christopher Glasgow, who took up his current post in 2023, described 125 Live! as a statement of intent. “This success marks the beginning of a bold new chapter for the venues,” he said, “with more innovative, accessible and community-led programming to come.”

“To deliver both world-class cultural experiences and significant economic impact demonstrates the vital role the performing arts play in Perth’s prosperity and wellbeing. We are proud to place Perth at the heart of Scotland’s cultural map.”

Artists and audiences alike praised the scale and ambition of the event. Walt Disco described it as “a privilege to play on home soil,” while one audience member called it “an extraordinary street party that promises world-class entertainment at pocket-friendly prices.”

What audiences said:

“Absolutely fantastic night at 125 Live! Found some new favourite bands, ate, drank, sang and danced my wee heart out”– Audience member

“Absolutely first-class show … thoroughly enjoyed every minute… food, drinks, music, performances and the visual art, light and sound at the end was outstanding! Thank you so much …” — Audience member

“What an incredible day and evening… The line-up was outstanding… All showcasing the incredible breadth of arts and culture that have thrived here for 125 years… Perth really came alive!” — Audience member

“Brilliantly run event and a fitting celebration of musical styles on offer at Perth Theatre and Concert Hall. The way that the audience was choreographed from stage to stage was very clever and effective. Swing, musical theatre, trad, folk, indie all on one ticket? It worked so well.” — Audience member

“Perth at its best… great quality bands/artists as well as great food and drinks.” — Audience member

“What an unforgettable day… the magic of the day and night was too big for any lens. Feeling honoured, inspired, and still buzzing from it all!” — Marysia McFarlane (photographer)

What artists said:

“Absolute pleasure to play the brilliant 125 Live! on home soil last night” – Parliamo
“We had a great day at #125LIVE, big thanks to Perth Theatre and Concert Hall for a lovely welcome and excellent event!” – Perthshire Brass

“What a magical opportunity, that we are so proud to have been a part of!” – The Apologetics

“What a privilege to celebrate this iconic space here in the heart of Scotland with the very best of all things musical, theatrical and joyful; roll on the next 125.” — Hannah Howie, Musical Theatre Headliner

“A collaboration of global significance… completely unique for Perth.” — Artist

The success underscores the venues’ strategic importance to Scotland’s cultural landscape. With 90% of Scotland’s population living within 90 minutes’ travel, Perth Theatre and Concert Hall are uniquely positioned to reach the nation at large. This milestone anniversary celebration not only honoured the venues’ remarkable legacy but also reinforced their vital role in Scotland’s ongoing cultural renewal.

Building on this momentum, the venues are already developing plans for new programming, broader community engagement, and continued investment in Perth’s cultural infrastructure.