Haddington: Magic! Queen rock town's Corn Exchange

A Kind of Magic took place in the town centre venue on Saturday as The Brunton Theatre Trust settled into its new home.

At the end of May, East Lothian Council confirmed that parts of The Brunton, in Musselburgh, would be closed for a “considerable period of time” after structural issues were identified in the roof.

The Brunton Theatre Trust has held events in various Musselburgh venues and will also be hosting entertainment in the Corn Exchange, which was previously closed to undergo refurbishment works and then during the coronavirus pandemic was used as a vaccination centre.

Magic! Queen took to the stage at Haddington's Corn Exchange. Image: Rob McDougall

Haddington Corn Exchange, off the town’s Court Street, has previously welcomed musicians including Fish and the Proclaimers.

Band members of Magic! Queen met with Brunton Theatre Trust trustee councillor Andy Forrest and Provost John McMillan to launch the venue, in advance of the opening concert, as staff prepared to offer a warm welcome to those in attendance.

On Friday, the iconic sounds of The Eagles will fill the venue as Talon perform The Best of Eagles Hotel California Tour.

Magic! Queen were the first band to perform at Haddington Corn Exchange in several years. Image: Rob McDougall

The seven-piece band have transcended the tag of tribute with a huge fan following in their own right.

Future events include children’s theatre from Catherine Wheels Theatre Company, a Big Fab Comedy Show and more amazing guitar riffs with The Story of Guitar Heroes.

Ahead of the curtain going up, the Brunton Theatre Trust added professional lighting, sound and staging to the Haddington town centre venue to run it for a trial period, presenting concerts, theatre, comedy and more over the coming months.

The venue also houses a bar offering pre event and interval refreshments.