The Playhouse is now fully restored and repaired to the highest of standards, bringing this well-loved arts centre back to life.
The refurbishment has provided an improved Arts and Community facility for over 60,000 visitors previously enjoying the facilities and has attracted thousands more since.
The Playhouse has surpassed all expectations, there is a constant buzz of activity during the day. There are community classes in the studio hub, happy customers eating in McKenna’s cafe, plus more families using the library which is joined by visitor information. The building is a wonderful example of how great architecture, lighting and design can enhance a community space. We continue to seat large audiences in the auditorium which now offers additional legroom and new seating.
On the ground floor you will find the Playhouse Box Office is now joined by the Library and Visitor Information. There is an improved cafe space and menu run by McKenna’s, serving to all areas of the Playhouse, six days a week. On the first floor there is a newly renovated Auditorium and Gallery space which leads onto the beautifully refurbished Playhouse Bar.
The Project
Working alongside the main contractors Northern Bear on the re-modelling of the interior of the Playhouse are Ward Robinson Ltd and JDDK Architects.
Ward Robinson Ltd, a highly experienced team of Interior Designers who have a proven track record of exceptional delivery over a diverse range of projects, examples include the stunning Grade II listed Longhirst Hall in Morpeth.
JDDK Architects, based in Newcastle upon Tyne have been established since 1987, the quality of their work has been reflected in over 100 architectural awards including the RIBA Building of the Year Award (now the Stirling Prize) for St Oswald’s Hospice.
Click here to watch a fly-through artists impression of the bar refurbishments by Ward Robinson Ltd.
Refurbishment begins
After closing in August with three performances from Shakespeare’s Globe on Tour, contractors Northern Bear who previously worked on the highly successful Tyneside Cinema redevelopment in 2014 were appointed, taking over the site in September. With the help of the staff and local community, the auditorium seating was removed and the Playhouse was emptied by the time Northern Bear took over.
Watch a fascinating time-lapse video showing the whole ‘get out’ process
Click here.