Those working on renovating the inside of the famed New Picture Theatre at St. Andrews have a wish as to who they would like to see present at any official re-opening later this year.
TourMiss visited the site earlier in the week and while the buidling is closed off to visitors, it was clear in speaking to workmen walking in and out of building that they are seemingly happy in their endeavours.
The now ‘B’ listed buidling was first opened on December 22nd, 1930 however closed its doors last year amid stiff opposition from St. Andrews and region residents to reports the inside of the historic building was going to be remodelled with two of the existing three cinema screens to be retained while also moves to adapt the accommodation with the introduction of a range of other complementary uses including four full golf swing sports simulators, electronic darts, table football and a new lounge bar with dining.
New Picture Theatra prior to 2025
The New Picture Theatre – May 2025 (Image @TourMiss)
New owners Tiger Woods and his good friend Justin Timerlake, who have already teamed up to launch a dining and entertainment brand, T-Squared Social, in New York City’s Manhattan, outlined their aim to convert it into a gastropub with televised sports and golf simulators, keeping one screen for new cinema releases. The plans were endorsed by one of its theatre’s directors in David Morris, who said dwindling ticket sales meant the cinema was no longer viable.
Work on the buidling is being admintered by TS SA Property Holdings Ltd and commenced in January and is expected to conclude late August/early September.
The local Fife Council had posted formal notices (see image) advising of the work and providing website links to documents associated with the permission to undertake the work.
Fife Council notice affixed to hoarding at the New Picture Theatre – Image @TourMiss May 2025
However, it was clear there was one person that those working the site would wish to see at the official opening and that is Woods.
One said: “It would be great if Tiger were to play the Dunhill Links and they could hold the ceremony to re-open the cinema during the week of the tournament”.
Another remarking: “That would be really special if thy could attract Tiger to the opening. I understand he was present at the opening of T-Squarerd Local in New York. Maybe he may come to St. Andrews.”
Watch this space.
