Written by on Apr 20, 2012. Posted in Production News

Copycat fears bar TV heist drama from location filming in Edinburgh gallery

A gallery in the Scottish capital Edinburgh has refused location filming permission for a UK TV drama involving art theft. The production wanted to film at Granton Centre of Art, but National Galleries of Scotland refused permission as they’re apparently worried about inspiring real-life criminals.

It seems the organisation’s fears are long-held, as a security review was held following the publication of Ian Rankin’s original Doors Open novel.

It’s an understandable decision by the Galleries not to allow filming at the collection centre if they are worried about potential copycats.

Marion Williams, Cockburn group

Marion Williams is Director of the Cockburn group, which organises Doors Open day in Edinburgh. She spoke to the Scotsman: “It’s an understandable decision by the Galleries not to allow filming at the collection centre if they are worried about potential copycats. They took part in Doors Open Day there in 2009 and 2010, but haven’t since the security review.”

Filming is scheduled to start next week, with a warehouse location next to a private Edinburgh gallery fixed as a replacement for the Granton Centre of Art. The production features Stephen Fry in a starring role.

(Main page image copyright: Mactographer)