- Theatre Royal News
Newcastle Theatre Royal is inviting people from across the North East to help shape its next chapter as it launches Vision 2037, a major public consultation ahead of the theatre’s bicentenary in 2037.
Launching on 14 October 2026, the consultation will engage audiences, communities, artists, partners, supporters and staff in a conversation about the role Newcastle Theatre Royal can play in the cultural life of the region over the next decade and beyond. The consultation will run until December 2026, with findings and next steps shared in Spring 2027 during the theatre’s 190th anniversary year.
Under the banner “Our Time. Our Friends. Our Future.”, Vision 2037 recognises a period of growing cultural confidence and ambition across the North East while acknowledging the need for greater investment and infrastructure to help the region fulfil its potential.
Rather than developing a long-term strategy behind closed doors, Newcastle Theatre Royal is inviting people to help shape its direction from the outset.
As an independent charity that receives no regular public funding, Newcastle Theatre Royal relies on the support, participation and engagement of audiences, communities, donors, partners and supporters across the region. Vision 2037 reflects the theatre’s commitment to ensuring those voices help shape its future direction.
Marianne Locatori, Chief Executive of Newcastle Theatre Royal, said:
“As we look towards our 200th anniversary in 2037, we have a unique opportunity to think boldly about the future. Vision 2037 is an invitation to audiences, communities, artists, partners and supporters to help shape the next chapter of Newcastle Theatre Royal and its role in the cultural life of our city and region. We want to hear a wide range of perspectives as we begin this important conversation together.”
The consultation will explore how Newcastle Theatre Royal can champion creativity and local talent, care for its historic home, widen access to theatre, and strengthen its contribution to the social, cultural and economic life of the North East.
Nick Swales OBE DL, Chair of the Newcastle Theatre Royal Trust Board, said:
“The North East is entering an exciting new chapter, and culture has an important role to play in shaping that future. Newcastle Theatre Royal has been at the heart of our region for generations, and this consultation is an opportunity for people to help shape its contribution to the cultural, social and economic life of the North East for years to come.”
The insights gathered will help shape the organisation’s long-term vision as it approaches its bicentenary in 2037.
The consultation forms part of a wider ambition to ensure Newcastle Theatre Royal remains relevant, accessible and impactful for generations to come.
Helen Costello, Chief Operating Officer of Newcastle Theatre Royal, said:
“The decisions we make now won’t just affect the people who come through our doors today. We continue to benefit from choices made nearly 200 years ago by people who believed Newcastle deserved a great theatre. We are the beneficiaries of their vision. Through Vision 2037, we have a similar opportunity to make choices today that will create opportunities for future generations long after we’re gone.”
People can take part in the consultation from 14 October 2026 here, with opportunities to contribute online and through a programme of engagement activity taking place across the region throughout October, November and December.
