THE actor Rupert Everett has put his weight behind the redevelopment of one of Scotland's most famous theatres.

In the early days of his career, in the1980s, Everett worked at the Citizens Theatre in Gorbals, Glasgow.

He is today looking around the theatre before it closes for a two year, £20m redevelopment.

Everett once said that he "really blossomed" as an actor at the theatre.

He told TimeOut that "the company...was putting on plays that were far-fetched and demanding, things, for instance, by [Carlo] Goldoni.

"Because they didn't patronise their audience, everyone adored it."

The historic venue will re-open in the autumn of 2020, and in the intervening period much of its theatrical work will be staged at the Tramway, also in Glasgow.

Everett found a theatrical home at the Citizens Theatre after being dismissed from drama school in London.

The actor is currently promoting his movie The Happy Prince, a biographical film about Oscar Wilde which he has written and directed and also stars in.

The film also stars Colin Firth, Emily Watson, Colin Morgan and Edwin Thomas.

The Citizens Theatre’s is undergoing the most radical redevelopment of the category B listed building in its 139 year history.

Plans include improved accessibility across the entire building, stabilising its Victorian features, a new bar and café, a reworked stage, and new rehearsal, learning and studio spaces.

The Citz, as it is known, has been one of Scotland’s leading theatres since 1945.

The Category B listed building opened as His Majesty’s Theatre in 1878 and was also known as the Royal Princesses Theatre until the building was first leased to James Bridie’s Citizens Theatre Company in 1945.

The new building has been designed by architectural practice Bennetts Associates.

The Citizens learning and education team will run their activities, including drama classes, from Scotland Street School Museum during the period of closure.