Pavilion Champion:
Maureen Beattie OBE
Maureen Beattie, Actor
“I grew up with Scottish Variety theatre in my blood and watched many fabulous performers like my father, Johnny Beattie, grace the stage of Rothesay Pavilion during Scotland’s golden era of Variety. This restoration holds a special place in my heart. I’m deeply passionate about the island of Bute and spaces like Rothesay Pavilion, not just because of the events and performances on stage, but for the audiences and community it fostered behind the scenes. For me, it’s a place where Scotland’s Variety theatre tradition meets its future. Its revival ensures that future generations can both enjoy incredible performances and build careers, keeping Scotland’s rich history of live entertainment flourishing. I can’t wait to see the Pavilion shine once more as a modern beacon in a thriving creative industry.”
ABOUT Maureen Beattie OBE
Maureen Beattie OBE, born on August 14, 1953, in Bundoran, County Donegal, is a renowned Irish-born, Scottish actress with an illustrious career spanning stage, screen, and television. The daughter of Scottish actor and comedian Johnny Beattie, she returned to Glasgow shortly after birth. Beattie trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, where she graduated in 1974, winning the prestigious James Bridie Gold Medal for Acting. Her impressive theatre credits include performances with the National Theatre of Scotland, the Royal Shakespeare Company, and the Globe Theatre, with standout roles in The List, Yer Granny, Titus Andronicus, and The Merry Wives of Windsor.
In addition to her extensive work in theatre, Beattie has also appeared in numerous television productions. She is best known for her role as Sandra Nicholl in the BBC medical drama Casualty, as well as for performances in Deadwater Fell, Doctor Who, and The Decoy Bride. Her talents extend to film, having starred in Finding Bob McArthur, and she continues to captivate audiences both on stage and screen. Recognized for her contributions to the entertainment industry, she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2020 New Year Honours.
