Business Details
Live Theatre: Championing New Writing & Creative Excellence
Live Theatre stands as a beacon of creative innovation in the North East of England, dedicated to nurturing new writing and theatrical talent. Since its inception, the organisation has championed authentic regional narratives while fostering global artistic connections. Our mission focuses on unearthing compelling local stories, cultivating creative voices at all career stages, and providing a dynamic space for artistic experimentation. With a heritage spanning decades, we maintain a unique business model that leverages property investments to directly support artists and new work. Our facilities include a characterful main theatre, adaptable studio spaces, and dedicated writing centres, all underpinned by core values of integrity, community care, and artistic adventure.Through comprehensive artist development programmes, free youth theatre initiatives, and educational partnerships, we create accessible pathways into the performing arts. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures that both emerging talent and established professionals find a supportive environment for creative risk-taking. As a registered charity, we combine cultural stewardship with innovative programming to maintain our reputation as one of England's foremost venues for new writing outside London.
Services
Theatre productions
Artist development
Youth theatre
Venue hire
Writing workshops
Educational programmes
Playwright support
Community engagement
Creative space provision
Cultural partnerships
Highlights and features
- Established reputation as England's leading regional venue for new writing
- Comprehensive artist development programme supporting 1000+ freelancers annually
- Free youth theatre and educational workshops for North East schools
- Unique Grade II listed venue with flexible performance spaces
- Charitable organisation reinvesting profits directly into artistic projects
Services
Theatre productions
Live Theatre produces groundbreaking new plays that reflect the authentic voice of the North East while maintaining international relevance. Our programming features both emerging and established playwrights, offering audiences diverse theatrical experiences that challenge and inspire. Each production benefits from our dedicated creative spaces and technical resources.
Artist development
Our comprehensive artist development programme provides free access to writing courses, masterclasses, and rehearsal spaces. We offer bursaries, open calls, and creative residencies to nurture talent at all career stages. This initiative has supported over 200 theatre companies and provided 600 days of free creative space annually.
Youth theatre
We operate the largest free youth theatre programme in the region for ages 10-25, alongside primary school writing workshops. These initiatives develop young creative talent through practical experience, with opportunities for performance and skills development in a professional theatre environment.
Venue hire
Our Grade II listed buildings offer unique event spaces dating back 500 years, combining historic character with modern functionality. The venue accommodates conferences, weddings, and corporate events with flexible layouts and technical capabilities supporting diverse requirements.
Educational programmes
Live Tales provides free story writing workshops for Key Stage 2 classes across Newcastle and Sunderland. Our educational initiatives include work experience placements, employability programmes, and teacher training to integrate creative learning into school curricula.
Questions
How can I purchase tickets for Live Theatre productions?
Tickets can be booked online through our website, by calling the Box Office at (0191) 232 1232, or in person during opening hours. Online booking is available 24/7.
What accessibility options are available at Live Theatre?
We offer wheelchair access, hearing assistance systems, and accessible seating. Our staff receive regular disability awareness training to ensure all visitors enjoy a comfortable theatre experience.
Do you offer educational programmes for schools?
Yes, we provide free story writing workshops (Live Tales) for Key Stage 2 classes and youth theatre programmes for ages 10-25. Our educational initiatives also include teacher training and school partnerships.
How does Live Theatre support emerging artists?
Through writing courses, masterclasses, free rehearsal space, and bursaries. Our artist development programme supports over 1,000 freelancers annually and provides opportunities for script development and production.
Can I hire Live Theatre's spaces for private events?
Yes, our Grade II listed buildings offer unique venues for conferences, weddings, and corporate events. The spaces combine historic character with modern facilities across five interconnected buildings.
Is Live Theatre a registered charity?
Yes, we operate as North East Theatre Trust Limited, registered charity number 513771. Our charitable status supports our mission to make theatre accessible to all while nurturing new creative talent.
