THE show will go on at the Alhambra Theatre with the venue insisting it will come back "better than ever" after lockdown.

The coronavirus pandemic has hit the arts industry hard with owners across the country predicting difficult times ahead.

Despite such challenges, Simon Fletcher, general manager at the Alhambra, says they are planning for a long-term future.

He said: "This has been a very difficult time for all, so we are excited now to come together and begin to plan for a new future.

"We hope that the easing of restrictions will continue on its current trajectory and allow the theatre and some amazing guest artists to do what we do best.

"Since our opening 13 years ago, we have welcomed over 1.7 million through the doors.

"This enforced hiatus has only strengthened our resolve to come back better than ever, and we look forward to a day very soon when we can open the doors once again and bring the best of entertainment to the people of Dunfermline and Fife."

Mr Fletcher also announced plans for a series of socially-distanced NHS fundraisers this coming festive season.

He said the NHS fundraisers were the brainchild of Alhambra trustees Paul Gudgin and Bobby Mitchell and the events, which are in the planning stage, will feature an NHS choir and the best of Fife’s musical theatre talent.

Mid-Scotland Fife MSP Alex Rowley, who has been working to support local venues through the lockdown, said he was delighted that there was a clear commitment from management to the future of the theatre.

He said: “These have been, and are, challenging times for all music and arts venues but it is important that we do not lose the assets and the experiences they offer.

"The Alhambra is the backbone of Dunfermline’s night-time economy but it is also a hub that brings great talent and brilliant shows to Fife.

"Everyone should be able to access the arts and the Alhambra is the key player when it comes to Fife so I very much welcome the commitment from management and the board to a sustainable future."