THE MAKE-OR-BREAK moment in the history of the Perth Concert Hall project arrived yesterday as the doors were thrown open for the launch of the venue’s first programme.

After years of intense local interest and discussion of the hall’s merits, the £20 million venue finally reached the crucial stage of attempting to capture the public imagination.

There was also, for many, a first look at the beautiful interior as workmen continued to lay the last slabs in time for a visit by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh tomorrow.

Always designed to be ambitious, the Horsecross project—the term for the combined running of Perth Theatre and the new concert hall—is aiming high, with a host of stars and innovative events booked.

The big names to come to Perth, starting in September, include campaigning musician Sir Bob Geldof, Scots acts The Proclaimers and Belle and Sebastian, comedian and TV star Al Murray, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, journalists John Simpson and Kate Adie and even a snooker premier league event starring Jimmy White and Stephen Hendry.

Also on the long list of performers are Caper- caillie, Sir Willard White, Blazing Fiddles, Runrig, US songwriter Nils Lofgren, Dundee’s own 1970s stars the Average White Band, and revitalised 1980s rocker Shakin’ Stevens.

Those involved in Horse-cross claimed the venue is creating a “buzz” that is making performers keen to come to the city.

Provost Bob Scott told media and arts figures, “It will position Perthshire as a real creative force in the performing arts, making a substantial contribution to the culture of Scotland.”

He insisted the concert hall and theatre, and their “exciting” programme, represent a “huge milestone” in the council’s plans for the centre of Perth. The authority wants to see nearby buildings demolished to form a plaza, a hotel with parking and a shopping street created by removing the current Woolworths store.

The first performance in the concert hall will be given tomorrow for the royal visit by 500 young musicians and actors from across Perth and Kinross.

The auditorium has state-of-the-art equipment, while the high-tech foyer, dubbed The Threshold, is ready for all manner of multi-media surprises with 22 screens, an interactive projection wall and sources of sound built into the floor.

Another revelation was the dismissal of local fears of high ticket prices. Some events are free, but most tickets seem to be in the region of £10-£20, with many at £8.

Horsecross chairman Iain Halliday thanked funders, including Perth and Kinross Council, the Gannochy Trust, Scottish Enterprise Tayside and local employer Norwich Union.

Chief executive Jane Spiers spoke of the “elegant building” and its “great team of really motivated and creative people.”

Tickets for the theatre and concert hall go on sale on Saturday. A booking system giving a simulation of the view from any seat will be available at www.horsecross.co.uk