The theatre company has its own resident ensemble of actors, a rarity in the modern British theatre landscape.
The building was designed by architects Nicoll Russell Studios and received a RIBA award shortly after construction.
It replaced a former church building that served as the original Dundee Repertory Theatre from 1939 until 1982.
The Scottish Dance Theatre is Scotland's national contemporary dance company and is permanently based here.
The venue contains a specific 'Creative Learning' department that runs workshops and community outreach programs year-round.
Dundee Rep Theatre is the only building in the UK that houses both a full-time resident theatre company and a professional dance ensemble, the Scottish Dance Theatre. Located in the heart of Dundee's Cultural Quarter, the venue occupies a purpose-built structure that opened in 1982. The auditorium features a thrust stage design, seating approximately 450 patrons to ensure intimate sightlines. It functions as a production house, meaning it creates its own sets, costumes, and props on-site in dedicated workshops. The institution is a registered charity and operates as a key hub for Scottish performing arts development. Its programming spans contemporary drama, major touring musicals, comedy, and experimental contemporary dance. The building’s design incorporates a distinctive red-brick exterior that contrasts with the surrounding historic university architecture.
The main entrance foyer, which features high ceilings, glass frontages, and views toward the Tay Square exterior.
Book tickets for productions at least a few weeks in advance, as resident company shows frequently sell out.
Visit the bar and café area, which serves locally sourced food and drink and is open to the public even if you are not attending a show.
Check the theatre's 'Get Involved' page online if you are interested in attending post-show cast Q&As or workshops.
Do not show up without a booking for popular weekend shows, as the venue does not have walk-in capacity for sold-out performances.
Main auditorium programming typically pauses for a short period during the peak of summer, though smaller events and community workshops may continue.
