Newcastle Theatre Royal set for £3.5m restoration
Jul 10 2009 by Joanne Butcher, The Journal
MILLIONS of pounds are to be invested in one of the region’s cultural landmarks.
Newcastle’s Theatre Royal is undergoing a £3.5m restoration project to celebrate its 175th birthday.
The major revamp, due to be officially announced on Monday, will see the Grade I-listed building, which has been termed “the greatest building on Britain’s greatest street” restored to its former glory and safeguarded for generations to come. And theatre patron, the acclaimed actor Richard Briers, will be making a guest appearance at the Theatre Royal on Monday.
The TV and stage actor, famed for his role as Tom Good in The Good Life, will be guest-of-honour at a launch dinner for sponsors and Friends of the Theatre.
Speaking to The Journal last night, Mr Briers said: “The Theatre Royal is one of our most distinguished theatres with which I have a very long association, having first appeared here in 1958 in Gilt and Gingerbread.
“I have worked out – to my horror – that it was 51 years ago. It was the play which really started things for me. Since then I have played at the Theatre Royal several times. It means a great deal to me, and has played a large part in my career.”
He praised the venue, which is one of only five Grade I-listed playhouses outside of London, as a “jewel” in the crown of theatre.
“The Theatre Royal is magnificent, I love it,” he said. “It is without a doubt one of the best venues in the country.
“To play on that stage with the enormous space is just wonderful. It is number one on the touring circuit.
“It is a great honour to be asked here again to launch this fantastic restoration project. The theatre is a real jewel, and it is wonderful to see it being conserved.”
The Theatre Royal on Grey Street was first opened in February 1837 – making 2012 its 175th birthday.
