Dance, Theatre, Music and Film...

Lovers of the performing arts will not be disappointed by the sheer variety of plays, musicals, concerts and dance events available. Some venues are traditional in style whilst others are astounding in their modernity. For more details and more venues search the box to your right.

The Customs House in South Shields is situated in a listed building overlooking the River Tyne.

Further up the coast Whitley Bay Playhouse stages a number of shows including music, drama, dance and comedy as well as showcasing young talent.

Sunderland Empire is resplendent in red velvet and gold leaf, now pulling in even bigger crowds with its programme of major West End hits and one-off shows.

Once described by Charlton Heston as amongst the most beautiful he had ever played in, The Theatre Royal in Newcastle hosts the Royal Shakespeare Company each year.

The Sage Gateshead is a brand new live music venue with a difference; it's an amazing building inside and out, offering world-class acoustics and attracting the best classical, jazz and folk music performers from around the world.

Historically, the North East has created a wealth of diverse musical talent and the Carling Academy city centre site has a musical heritage. Originally built as a Picture House (The New Westgate) in 1927, it was once the legendary Majestic Ballroom, famed for a performance by The Beatles in 1963, who went on to write their biggest selling UK hit, 'She Loves You' after the show! As well as The Beatles, The Moody Blues, The Kinks, Spencer Davis Group, The Hollies, Van Morrison and the Small Faces are just a few other famous names that graced the Majestic Ballroom stage.
Carling Academy Newcastle has been lovingly restored to its former glory, and the venue has quickly established itself as a major player on the UK touring circuit.
Dance City is the most northern of nine National Dance Agencies, and the largest outside of London. Dance City aims to bring dance to life by developing access and participation in the rich variety of dance styles that are practised in contemporary Britain. The agency is also instrumental in bringing some of the very best international performers to the region.

Other venues include the contemporary Northern Stage, the City Hall, Metro Radio Arena and the The Live Theatre on Newcastle's Quayside which re-opens at the end of September, with a stylish and spacious new look, a fantastic opening programme including a world premiere from North East writer, Lee Hall, plus new bar and café.