Robert Gordon’s College is renowned for its outstanding Creative Arts curriculum and performance spaces, and the recent transformation of MacRobert Hall reinforces its commitment to championing the next generation of RGC performers.

The College is delighted to announce significant upgrades to the MacRobert Hall, made possible through the generous support of The MacRobert Trust and the Hall Davidson Legacy gift, facilitated by the Gordonian Association.

A Revitalised Performance Space
The enhancements mark an exciting new chapter for the MacRobert Hall, a central hub for the College’s performing arts, assemblies, and creative showcases. Thanks to this investment, the Hall now boasts upgraded lighting, sound, and technical systems, transforming it into a modern and professional performance venue. These improvements have already supported major productions such as We Will Rock You and will set the stage for this year’s Beauty and the Beast, alongside the much-loved Junior School Shows and Nativities.

Supporting the Creative Arts at RGC
The MacRobert Trust’s recent gift has enabled the installation of new lighting, sound, and technical equipment, enriching the experience for performers and audiences alike. The Trust, established in 1942 by Lady Rachel Workman MacRobert in memory of her three sons who all served and died in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, has a long history of supporting education, youth development, and the arts across Scotland. Its connection to Robert Gordon’s College reflects a shared commitment to nurturing creativity, leadership, and community spirit in young people.

The Hall Davidson Legacy and the Gordonian Association
Complementing the Trust’s donation, the Gordonian Association has provided further support  to refurbish the backstage areas of the Hall. This generous contribution was funded through the Davidson Bequest Fund (2010), established by former pupil Hall Davidson (who attended RGC between 1900-1906 in memory of his brother Alfred James Davidson (who attended RGC 1907–1911), a talented musician whose life was tragically cut short at the Somme in 1916.

Hall Davidson, himself a gifted amateur artist, ensured that his legacy would continue to support music and the arts at the College and bequeathed a gift in his Will to ensure future generations of Robert Gordon’s pupils would excel in the creative arts. Over the decades, the fund has supported the Davidson Music and Arts Awards, music tours and its contribution to the refurbishment of the MacRobert Hall is a fitting continuation of this tradition.

Backstage Refurbishment and Renewed Purpose
The Gordonian Association’s donation has transformed the Hall’s two backstage rooms, corridor, and wing staircases, breathing new life into spaces that had fallen out of use. The works included full redecoration, new flooring, mirrors, LED lighting, and the refurbishment of two backstage toilets, alongside plasterwork and redecoration.

Importantly, one of the rooms, unused for many years, has been recommissioned as a dedicated green room and make-up area, while the other now serves as a modern waiting and changing space. These updates have greatly enhanced the backstage experience for pupils and staff, aligning it with the upgraded facilities on stage and in the auditorium. The Gordonian Association, working closely with the College’s Advancement Team, is already exploring plans to refurbish the final two backstage rooms.

David Rennie, President of the Gordonian Association, shared: “It has been a rewarding experience for the Gordonian Association to work closely with Robert Gordon’s College to ensure the Hall Davidson Legacy continues to make a meaningful impact. The strong bond between Hall and Alfred Davidson, with the College, united by their shared passion for the arts, makes this project especially meaningful. Witnessing this legacy come alive in the upgraded MacRobert Hall is immensely rewarding and brilliant to see it used daily by the school as a space where pupils can perform, create, and grow in confidence. We are proud to have contributed to  supporting the next generation of talented performers”.

Amanda Massie, Head of Creative Arts, commented: “The team and I are extremely grateful for the financial support received from The MacRobert Trust and the Gordonian Association. Without this support and collaboration, these upgrades would simply not have been possible. These improvements have created a professional and inspiring environment for all of our pupils to be the best they can be onstage or in a production capacity. This investment will have a lasting impact, enriching the creative experiences of our young performers now and for generations to come.”