HGF Ltd is pleased to announce that Craig Watson, Partner from our Aberdeen office, proudly presented His Majesty’s Theatre (HMT) with a copy of a patent from 1903 for the design of the famous building.
In 1903 the renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham patented a new theatre design which was used in the subsequent construction of HMT. The new theatre design allowed theatre circles to be constructed with fewer obstructive pillars supporting them resulting in an improved view of the stage for those on lower tiers. Performances to this day benefit from providing patrons a better view of the stage, unlike other theatres constructed before this innovation.
Craig Watson, Partner at HGF, commented,
“I attended a tour of HMT and learned that the design had apparently been patented over 100 years ago. I had a good look through historical patent records and was delighted to find the patent in question. After contacting HMT I was pleased to be able to add a little bit to the documented history of this Aberdeen institution.”
Jane Spiers, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Performing Arts, commented,
“His Majesty’s Theatre is a truly special building, loved by Aberdonians as well as visitors to our city. We’re indebted to Frank Matcham for his visionary design, and over 100 years later, the theatre remains the jewel in the crown of Aberdeen’s skyline.”