An Edinburgh theatre boss who helped save the King's Theatre has died peacefully at home.
Duncan Hendry, who served as Chief Executive of Capital Theatres from 2012 to 2019, passed away aged 72 on Thursday morning surrounded by his loved ones.
A celebrated leader in the country's cultural sector for over three decades, Duncan brought range of beloved shows to Scotland's capital including War Horse, Mary Poppins and Les Misérables.
As reported by Edinburgh Live, he helped launch performance space The Studio on Potterrow and served as Chief Executive of Aberdeen Performing Arts for several years.
Duncan also presented the first-ever relaxed performance for people with additional needs in Scotland and was monumental in campaigning for the long-awaited redevelopment of the King’s Theatre.
In 2013, he commissioned John Byrne to paint the King’s Theatre dome, one the largest public artworks by a living Scottish artist.
When Duncan first joined the Festival City Theatres Trust in January 2012, the organisation was facing a substantial financial deficit.
Under his expert guidance, the company rebranded to become Capital Theatres and, after years of hard work, is once again a thriving arts business with a much-needed campaign for the restoration of the King’s Theatre underway.
Born in Glasgow in 1951, Duncan graduated with a degree in psychology from St. Andrew University. He spent his early career as a music promoter, working with iconic bands such as The Clash and The Proclaimers.
He took on his theatre chief executive and devoted his life to the cultural ecology in Scotland, contributing way beyond the venues he ran.
He leaves behind a wonderful legacy to the arts in Scotland and his loving family Rosemary, Rachel and Adam.
Duncan's funeral will take place in Edinburgh, with further details to be announced soon.
Professor Dame Joan Stringer, Chair of Capital Theatres’ Board, said: “With the passing of Duncan, we have lost a major figure in Scotland’s cultural life.
"The arts were in Duncan’s blood and his contribution to the sector was immense. At Capital Theatres, his considerable leadership qualities combined with his business acumen transformed the fortunes of two of Edinburgh’s major venues.
"Not only did he turn them around financially but through his gifted programming skills ensured high-quality shows were performed all year round at the Festival and King’s theatres."
She added: "Duncan was generous of his time and shared his knowledge and experience freely with others, and in return became one of the most respected and quietly influential people in the theatre world.
"It was a privilege and a pleasure to work alongside him during our time together at Capital Theatres and the whole organisation is hugely saddened by his passing.
"Our thoughts are with Rosemary, Rachel and Adam at this time, to whom we send our deepest condolences.”
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
