The Theatre Royal, Newcastle upon Tyne
The Theatre Royal is one of the most famous and well known theatres in Newcastle and the Tyne and Wear area, owing to its rich history and amazing shows.
The Theatre Royal in Newcastle stands as a proud and dominating feature in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne’s Grainger Town; it is a Grade 1 listed building in a neo classical design that stands out even among its Georgian neighbours on Grey Street.
Grey Street itself has been voted by Radio 4 listeners (on more than one occasion) as the most beautiful street in the UK, and even amongst this strong competition the Theatre Royal catches the eye, being regarded widely as having one of the most beautiful theatre facades in the country.
History of Theatre Royal Newcastle
The Theatre Royal is based in a Grade I listed building and opened its doors on the 29th February 1837, with a wonderful performance of The Merchant of Venice.
Unfortunately in 1899 a huge fire tore through the theatre damaging the building greatly, but this damage did not stop the Theatre Royal as it was redesigned inside and reopened on New Years Eve of 1901.
In the late 1980’s the theatre went under refurbishment and restoration to bring the theatre back to the glory of when it was first opened. 
There is a story that the Theatre Royal is frequented by a ghost of a nineteenth century lady called “The Grey Lady” who reportedly committed suicide: although the ghost has not been seen recently and information of the ladies suicide seems difficult to find, many people are interested in the paranormal activities of this grand theatre.
Since it’s opening more than 170 years ago some of the finest actors, plays and shows have graced its stage: it is reportedly Ian Mckellen’s favourite theatre, and is also the home of the Royal Shakespeare Company alongside London and Stratford upon Avon.
The Theatre Royal doesn’t just stick to classic plays however, and puts on a variety of shows including opera, musicals, dance and contemporary productions.
Theatre workshops are run for adults and children at the theatre, covering all aspects of theatre productions from drama to makeup, movement, lighting and props. The spring term runs from January to March and is £40 per term – these are very popular and places tend to get filled up fast!
There are also Shakespeare drama classes for 14 to 18 year olds at the same price per term; these classes are focused exclusively on the drama and acting side of stage craft, and there are further classes aimed at school groups as well as classes training people on the purely technical side of the theatre.
The Theatre Royal offers a huge amount to Newcastle in its productions and education and has done so for many, many years.
How To Find The Theatre Royal Newcastle
By Car: the theatre is within a gentle ten to fifteen minute walk from any of the car parks found around the city.
By Public Transport: the theatre is in easy walking distance from both the Newcastle Railway Station and the Manors Railway Station.
From the Newcastle Railway Station: turn right out of the station and walking up Neville Street, continuing as it turns into Collingwood Street then Mosley Street. Take the fourth exit on the left as you walk up the road and this will be Grey Street. The Theatre Royal is located a short distance up on the right hand side.
From Manors Railway Station: turn right onto Pandon Bank before turning right onto Melbourne Street and continuing as it turns to City Road. You will come to a large roundabout, take the second exit straight ahead on to Mosley Street and then take your first right onto Grey Street. The Theatre Royal is a short walk up Grey Street.
Address:
Theatre Royal
100 Grey Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 6BR
Tel: 0191 244 2500
Box Office: 0844 811 2121
Website: Theatre Royal Newcastle