The building, which is leased by Citizens Theatre Company from Glasgow City Council, needs to close to allow builders to move on-site to undertake the essential building works that will transform its Victorian theatre into a 21st century building fit for purpose.

The new building has been designed by architectural practice Bennetts Associates and the theatre will re-open to the public in autumn 2020.

During that period, plays, drama classes and staff, will be moved to a number of different venues including the Tramway and Scotland Street Museum.

In addition, the theatre’s production facilities will move across the road from the theatre into the former Skills Academy building, which is owned by City Building/Glasgow City Council, in Laurieston.

Dominic Hill, artistic director of the Citizens Theatre, said: “The Citizens Theatre building is about to embark on the biggest changes to its physical structure in its 139 year history. This latest stage in our £19.4m redevelopment project presents an exciting opportunity for a number of key landmark cultural organisations to work together in Glasgow. Our shared history of innovation and creativity makes it a great opportunity to collaborate with them.

“We hope our audiences and participants will find our offer thrilling and appealing, as they follow us on our journey, as we temporarily move out of the theatre and present an exciting programme of work from different venues across the city.”

Councillor David McDonald, depute leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of Glasgow Life, added: “We’re delighted to be able to support the transformation of one of Scotland’s iconic cultural institutions.

“The Citizens Theatre is rooted in the local community and it is absolutely fitting that while the venue is being refurbished, its ambitious programme of live theatre, creativity and learning, will continue across our venues, inspiring audiences from near and far.”

The theatre recently launched its ‘We Are Citizens’ public fundraising campaign which will inspire, engage, and encourage others to help raise £1.6 million for the building redevelopment.