The oldest theatre remaining in Glasgow is the Theatre Royal, which opened in 1867. It was originally known as the Royal Colosseum before later being renamed Theatre Royal.
The theatre operated successfully until the mid-20th century, even managing to host performances during the war years, despite a shortage of actors. In 1957, it was purchased by Scottish Television (STV) and converted into television studios. In 1974, STV moved their production to purpose-built studios, and the theatre was sold to Scottish Opera, who restored it as a theatre.
There are many reports of unexplained activity within the building, including disembodied sighs and moaning in the upper gallery, and doors slamming throughout the building with no apparent cause. Seats often move on their own, and guests report feeling a ghostly touch in the bar area. These activities are attributed to a spirit known as Nora. She is said to have formerly worked at the theatre and had a strong desire to be an actress. It seems her colleagues did not share her belief that she could fulfil her dream, and when she finally was invited to audition for a part in a play, they gathered to watch. Rather than offering support, they found the situation amusing, and when Nora struggled with the pressure, they began to laugh, bringing the audition to an end. Devastated and humiliated, Nora was later found deceased, with various opinions on whether she took her own life or died of a broken heart.
Although her spirit form is rarely seen, the activity is associated with her partly due to the general feeling of unease at the time, with it thought that Nora has still not forgiven her treatment on that fateful night.
The theatre is also said to be haunted by a fireman, who appears in full form. I will purposefully not go into detail, although some theorise that he is associated with an earlier fire in the building, it is known that an officer lost his life during a fire in 1969. He has been seen sitting in the corner of one of the rooms within the theatre, and more unnervingly, in the orchestra pit, staring at musicians. It is thought he is at peace, but perhaps enjoyed the theatre in life and so still returns periodically.
Contractors working in the building often report tools and equipment going missing, only to reappear later, and while this is often believed to be the actions of the fireman, it seems just as likely to be Nora.
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