The Stage

Edinburgh Underbelly’s safety confirmed

Published Tuesday 1 June 2004 at 09:15

Edinburgh Festival Fringe venue Smirnoff Underbelly has had its future at this year’s event secured following concerns regarding the safety of the building where it is based.

Following a scheduled review of the fire and safety conditions at the Edinburgh Central Library, which hosts the theatre, music and comedy venue, it was feared that it would not be able to open in time for the festival. However, after working with landlord Edinburgh City Council, these problems have been addressed.

In a statement Underbelly artistic directors Ed Bartlam and Charlie Wood said: “There were, as have been reported, issues relating to the safety of Edinburgh Central Library. After a series of constructive discussions with Edinburgh City Council and with the guidance of the council’s Festival tsar Steve Cardownie, these issues have been resolved.

“The safety of the library has been ensured, and Smirnoff Underbelly is set to have its strongest year yet at the fringe.”

Set up in disused bank vaults in 2000, the Underbelly was created to support new theatre. Highlights of last year included Perrier Newcomer winner Gary Le Strange, Phil Kay, Lucy Porter and Mark Owen. Its new music wing attracted Keane, The Thrills, Mull Historical Society and Ocean Colour Scene.

This year confirmed acts include Jerry Springer - The Opera creator Stewart Lee, Rob Deering, Milton Jones, Perrier Newcomer in 2002 Garth Cruickshank and Robin Ince. The venue will also host the first stage version of Jeffrey Archer’s Prison Diaries, authorised by the disgraced Tory Peer.