We have a very strong tradition of theatre in Scotland and we need this organisation

Heather Baird, Federation of Scottish Theatres

The proposals would not require the creation of a new theatre building, as only administrative headquarters would be needed.

The report was unveiled on Friday at Edinburgh's Lyceum Theatre.

Federation director Heather Baird said: "We have a very strong tradition of theatre in Scotland and we need this organisation, which is going to celebrate the diversity of everything that happens in Scotland."

Actress Siobhan Redmond is also backing the proposals.

'Soul food'

She said: "I don't see why there isn't room to have a national theatre of Scotland.

"Although theatre is obviously not as important as preventing old people from dying alone and cold and making sure there are enough maths books to go around, it is important.

"It is soul food and it is something that, as a nation, we have always found important."

Brian Monteith backs the theatre calls

And Scottish Arts Council chairman Magnus Linklater said: "If they can continue to hold to the principles that they have laid out I think it should be successful."

Supporters hope the proposal will be included in the government's cultural strategy, which is due to be published soon.

The idea has also been backed by Scottish Tory culture spokesman Brian Monteith MSP.

He said: "The Federation of Scottish Theatres' proposal of a commissioning national theatre, similar to the way the Edinburgh International Festival works, is the right approach because it brings together competing theatre companies, competing cities and competing politicians.

"This could achieve a consensus where everyone benefits."