Newcastle Theatre Royal Autumn 23/Spring 24 Season Brochure

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A mesmerising adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s hit novel.’ Sunday

From the imagination of best-selling author Neil Gaiman (Coraline, Good Omens, The Sandman), comes the National Theatre’s major new stage adaptation, direct from the West End.

This five-star smash hit from the producers of War Horse, is a thrilling adventure of fantasy, myth and friendship, taking audiences on an epic journey to a childhood once forgotten.

Tue 11 – Sat 22 Jul 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm Running time: 2hrs 35mins

Recommended: 12+

Dirty Dancing returns to Newcastle following a season at London’s Dominion Theatre. Exploding with heart-pounding music, breathtaking emotion and sensationally sexy dancing.

See the hit film come to life before your eyes with this fantastic, emotional and triumphant live stage show.

Tue 1 – Sat 5 Aug 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm, Fri 8.30pm

Matinees: Fri 5pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 10mins

Recommended: 12+, please note this show features quick light changes

Tue 25 – Sat 29 Jul 2023

Evenings:

Concessions available

Mon 7 – Wed 9 Aug 2023

Evenings: Mon & Tue 5pm

Matinees: Tue & Wed 11am & 2pm

Running time: 1hr 5mins

The award-winning, smash-hit musical is back!

Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard Frank Farmer (Ayden Callaghan), is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron (Zoe Birkett*) from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don’t expect is to fall in love. Featuring a whole host of irresistible classics including One Moment in Time and the legendary I Will Always Love You. *Zoe Birkett will play the role at evening performances only.

Tue 15 – Sat 19 Aug 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Family tickets available

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 20mins

Recommended: 10+, strong language, violence and sexual themes

Book early, secure your seat today

‘Theatrical magic!

Times

‘Smash-hit musical gives us all the time of our lives’

Bristol Evening Post

Hands up who wants great groups discounts?

Let our Group Sales team help you plan your visit with ease

Find out more at theatreroyal.co.uk/groups or email groupbookings@theatreroyal.co.uk

Newcastle Theatre Royal’s Project A revive Julia Darling’s A Manifesto for a New City and create along with writer Laura Lindow a contemporary epilogue for the piece The Language of We

With words of the original play echoing through the years, Project A students consider where are we now?

Is our world anything that was dreamed back in 2005? Are WE anything those visionaries expected to see, here in 2023?

The group bring to life voices of the here and the now. With nostalgia, passion and above all hope running through.

This performance takes place in The Studio.

Wed 12 –Sat 15 Jul 2023

A Manifesto for a New City & The Language of We Tickets from £8

Evenings: 7pm

Running time: TBC

Forget feel good, Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story is feel great!

This sensational multi award-winning West End and Broadway show first opened in 1989 and has been thrilling audiences around the world ever since. Now it triumphantly visits Newcastle Theatre Royal as part of its 2023 UK Tour.

Experience the drama, passion and excitement as a multi-talented cast of actor-musicians tell Buddy Holly’s story, from his Texas rockabilly beginnings to international stardom and his legendary final performance at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, before his tragic death at the age of just 22.

Featuring two terrific hours of the greatest songs ever written, including That’ll Be The Day, Oh Boy, Rave On, La Bamba, Chantilly Lace, Johnny B. Goode, Raining In My Heart, Everyday, Shout and many many more, this show is just Peggy Sue-perb!

Book now for The World's Most Successful Rock & Roll Musical.

‘Joyous! I love this show!’ Sunday Express Mon 28 Aug – Sat 2 Sep 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 35mins

7 Friends save 20% off show tickets

STARRING GARETH GATES as squidward

STARRING Divina de Campo as plankton

LIZA GODDARD MATTHEW KELLY SIMON SHEPHERD

WHATSONSTAGE

Starring Pop Idol’s Gareth Gates and Ru-Paul’s Drag Race legend Divina De Campo, The SpongeBob Musical is written by Kyle Jarrow and conceived by Tina Landau and features a tidal wave of original songs by the world’s most iconic rock and pop artists, including Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler, and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alex Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I., and songs by David

Bowie, Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics by Jonathan Coulton. Additional music by Tom Kitt.

A hilarious deep-sea pearl of a show that is set to make a splash with audiences young and old as the must-see musical of 2023.

Tue 5 – Sat 9 Sep 2023

Evenings: 7pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 15mins

Under 16s discounts available

WHATSONSTAGE

PURE COMIC BLISS

DAILY MAIL

DIRECT FROM THE WEST END

One of the greatest British comedies ever written comes to Newcastle Theatre Royal direct from a sell-out West End run and starring Liza Goddard, Matthew Kelly and Simon Shepherd.

Michael Frayn’s celebrated play serves up a riotous double bill, a play within a play.

Hurtling along at breakneck speed, Noises Off follows the on and offstage antics of a touring theatre company as they stumble their way through the fictional farce, ‘Nothing On’.

Tue 12 – Sat 16 Sep 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Wed & Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 25mins

Book early, secure your seat today

“IT’S SHORE TO BE A WINNER!”

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

The new stage phenomenon that has taken the West End by storm now comes to Newcastle.

Winner of Best New Play at the WhatsOnStage Awards, this edge-of-yourseat, supernatural thriller is written by Danny Robins, creator of the hit BBC podcasts

Uncanny and The Battersea Poltergeist, and comes fresh from record-breaking seasons at four West End theatres with a host of acclaimed star performances (including among others Lily Allen, Cheryl, Stephanie Beatriz, Tom Felton, Jake Wood and James Buckley*). It’s a brilliantly funny and adrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear… What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?

“There’s something in our house. I hear it every night, at the same time”.

Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but her husband Sam isn’t having any of it. They argue with their first dinner guests, old friend Lauren and new partner Ben. Can the dead really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, but something feels strange and frightening, and that something is getting closer, so they’re going to stay up… until 2:22… and then they’ll know.

*Tour cast to be announced.

Tue 19 – Sat 23 Sep 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Fri 3.30pm & Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs Recommended: 12+

LYRICS BY TIM RICE MUSIC BY ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

Timothy Sheader directs this mesmerizing production of the iconic global phenomenon, Jesus Christ Superstar, which comes to Newcastle for one week only!

Choreographed by Drew McOnie and with music and lyrics by multi-award winners Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas.

The legendary score includes I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar

Tue 26 – Sat 30 Sep 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: TBC

Recommended: 10+. This sung-through musical (which contains loud music) centres on the final days of the life of Jesus. It contains some violence and an onstage depiction of the crucifixion

11 Friends save 20% off show tickets

“A GORGEOUS, THRILLING, HEAVENLY MUSICAL.”

THE GUARDIAN “HALLELUJAH! AN ALMIGHTY REVELATION.”

In a shockingly shameless scam, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire was duped out of £1,000,000. Or was it?

Rory Bremner stars as Chris Tarrant in Quiz, the thrilling and entertaining ride through the infamous Coughing Major scandal which engulfed the world’s most popular TV quiz show.

The story remains a mystery and had over six million people glued to their screens watching ITV’s adaptation of this West End smash hit play. Now, uncovering new evidence, it’s time to ask you, the audience, to put fingers on keypads and answer the ultimate 50/50: guilty or not guilty?

Rory Bremner is Britain’s top impressionist, TV star, actor and comedian. Quiz

7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm Running time: TBC

Recommended: PG

It’s big… it’s bright… it's a brand-spanking new production of 42nd Street.

Featuring a hit parade of toe-tapping songs including 42nd Street, We’re In The Money, Lullaby of Broadway, Shuffle Off To Buffalo and I Only Have Eyes For You, 42nd Street is a timeless and inspiring showbiz fairy tale that combines breathtaking tap dance routines, backstage intrigue, classic romance and delightful comedy to dazzling effect. It’s simply irresistible!

Les Dennis will not be performing 12-13 Oct. Cast and performance schedule subject to change without notice.

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Tue 10 – Sat 14 Oct 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Wed & Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: TBC

Celebrating 40 years on the road, Dillie, Liza and Adèle, Britain’s raciest and sassiest musical cabaret trio, are bringing their brand-new show to theatres across the UK. Fascinating Aïda have racked-up millions of internet followers, performed in the world’s most prestigious venues and been showered with awards and plaudits since they sashayed onto the scene. Uniquely charming, with diamond-sharp satire, filthy, hilarious, belligerent, political, poignant and outrageous, this indomitable trio are still the mistresses of their craft.

Sun 15 Oct 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Running time: 2hrs

Recommended: 14+ Suitable for feisty teenagers upwards (includes bad language and sexual references)

“The entire company looks terrific. Clearly, the future is theirs”

The New York Times

Ailey 2 is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the finest early-career dance talent in the USA with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding and emerging choreographers.

For their return to the UK, Ailey 2 brings an exciting repertory featuring Francesca Harper’s futuristic Freedom Series (excerpt), Robert Battle’s thrilling The Hunt, the incredible energy of William Forsythe’s Enemy in the Figure (excerpt), and Alvin Ailey’s beloved masterpiece Revelations

Tue 24 & Wed 25 Oct 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Post show Q&A: Tue 24 Oct

Running time: 1hr 55mins

Recorded music

£10 tickets for under 30s

15 Friends save 20% off show tickets

Don’t save it for a rainy day

Delight and network clients with the best seats for the biggest shows

For details please visit theatreroyal.co.uk/business-memberships or contact membership@theatreroyal.co.uk

WhatsOnStage on Lucy Bailey’s Gaslight

Ten strangers are lured to a solitary mansion off the coast of Devon. When a storm cuts them off from the mainland, the true reason for their presence on the island becomes horribly clear.

“None of us will ever leave this island”

Directed by Lucy Bailey (Witness for the Prosecution, now in its 6th year in London) this brand-new production of the bestselling crime novel of all time will keep you on the edge of your seat… Genuinely terrifying….

The Times on Lucy Bailey’s Love from a Stranger

Don’t miss Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, coming to Newcastle Theatre Royal this Autumn.

Tue 17 – Sat 21 Oct 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: TBC

Recommended: 12+

17 Book early, secure your seat today

‘Bailey turns the screw with every scene’

‘Gripping entertainment’

FALSTAFF Verdi

Tue 31 Oct & Thu 2 Nov, 7pm

To save himself from his mounting bills Falstaff plots to seduce two wealthy women – but they’re not so easily fooled. Cue disguises, deception, and humour in Verdi’s irresistible comedy.

Sung in English with English titles

Running time approx: 2hrs 30mins LA

RONDINE

Puccini

Wed 1 & Fri 3 Nov, 7pm

Journey from the streets of Paris to the sun-drenched Mediterranean with Puccini's trademark beautiful music. Magda unexpectedly finds true love with the handsome young Ruggero. But will her past stand in the way of happiness?

Sung in Italian with English titles

Running time approx: 2hrs 15mins

MASQUE OF MIGHT AN ECO-ENTERTAINMENT

Purcell

Sat 4 Nov, 7pm

Sir David Pountney brings together the music of Purcell to create an extraordinary ‘recycled’ opera. The ruler of the land is determined to take all he can, polluting rivers and destroying forests as he goes. Until nature fights back…

Sung in English with English titles

Running time approx: 2hrs 30 mins

Tue 31 Oct – Sat 4 Nov 2023 & Wed 13 – Sat 16 Mar 2024

There will be a pre-show talk before each performance; these are free events but tickets must be booked in advance

New to Opera, Under 30s and package discounts available

18 theatreroyal.co.uk

DOUBLE BILL: ALEKO / CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA Rachmaninov / Mascagni

Wed 13 & Fri 15 Mar, 7pm

Enjoy twice the thrill with this double bill of the ever-popular Cavalleria rusticana and Rachmaninov’ s rarely heard Aleko. In both gritty blood-soaked dramas, jealous love triangles plummet to violent ends.

Sung in Russian with English titles

Sung in Italian with English titles

Running time approx: 2hrs 45mins

COSÌ FAN TUTTE

Mozart

Thu 14 & Sat 16 Mar, 7pm

It all starts with a casual wager. The cynical Don Alfonso bets Ferrando and Guglielmo that he can prove that their fiancées are unfaithful. It sounds harmless enough, but misunderstandings are everywhere in this comic game of love.

Sung in English with English titles

Running time approx: 3hrs

Great discounts available

Friends save 20% off show tickets

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BEAUTY & THE BEAST

A BALLET BY DAVID NIXON CBE

Northern Ballet bring their signature sparkle to this timeless love story.

When a terrifying creature threatens her father, Beauty selflessly leaves her family to live with the Beast in his castle. As time goes by, she grows strangely fond of her host, who hides an extraordinary secret… a curse that can only be broken by true love.

With opulent sets, kaleidoscopic costumes, and a hand-picked score of classic music played live by Northern Ballet Sinfonia, this fairytale ballet is a must-see for audiences of all ages.

Tue 7 – Sat 11 Nov 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 5mins

Suitable for all ages.

Contains flashing lights

Direct from the West End, The Drifters Girl returns by popular demand to Newcastle Theatre Royal where it had its world premiere in 2021.

Nominated for Best New Musical at the 2022 Olivier Awards, this smash-hit show has audiences on their feet night after night with a phenomenal soundtrack packed full of iconic Drifters hits including Saturday Night At The Movies, Save The Last Dance For Me and Stand By Me

Discover the remarkable story of The Drifters and the truth about the woman who made them. From the highs of hit records to the lows of legal battles and personal tragedy,

Faye Treadwell is the legendary manager of The Drifters who refused to give up on the group she loved.

Thirty years, and hundreds of hit songs later, there is no doubt that Faye Treadwell was and always will be, The Drifters Girl

Tue 14 – Sat 18 Nov 2023

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Wed & Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 30mins

Recommended: PG, contains flashing lights and loud music

Production images of the Original West End cast

Celebrating 18 years at the Theatre Royal, Danny Adams stars as Pinocchio in a spectacular new pantomime adventure, with Clive Webb as toymaker Geppetto, Newcastle’s own Joe McElderry as Jiminy Cricket and Chris Hayward as Dame Rita. Completing the cast will be returning favourites Mick Potts, Wayne Smith, Kylie Ann Ford, Christina Berriman Dawson and West End star Landi Oshinowo.

The Theatre Royal panto will be written, directed and produced by Michael Harrison for an 18th season, and this year will be choreographed by Matt Cole, who won the 2023 Olivier Award for choreographing the new London production of Disney’s Newsies

Join Danny as he transforms from the famous puppet to a real boy and gets ready to see his nose grow every time he tells a lie! With brandnew sets and costumes, we’d be lying if we said this isn’t going to be our best panto yet!

Tue 28 Nov 2023 – Sun 14 Jan 2024

See website for show times

Running time: TBC

This is a family show with bangs and flashes, a couple of scary moments, a bit of panto innuendo (never intended to offend) – and some very old jokes!

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Ticket offers available

23 Friends save 20% off show tickets See page 12

WINNER! Best New Musical – WhatsOnStage Awards, London

Following a record-breaking three-year West End residency, sold-out UK & Ireland Tour and Amazon studios award-winning film, the smash-hit and critically acclaimed musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie returns to Newcastle Theatre Royal.

Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn’t quite fit in. Jamie is terrified about the future. Jamie is going to be a sensation. Supported by his brilliant loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness, into the spotlight.

MARGARET NEW Rebecca

Set to an original score of catchy pop tunes by lead singer-songwriter of The Feeling, Dan Gillespie Sells and writer Tom MacRae, everybody will be talking about Jamie for years to come.

Sixteen: the edge of possibility. Time to make your dreams come true.

Tue 16 – Sat 20 Jan 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 40mins

Recommended: 12+, contains some strong language and mild sexual references. Contains low smoke, haze and flashing lights 24 theatreroyal.co.uk

We all deserve our own ‘Cinderella moment’ and next year Scottish Ballet takes us one step closer to that dream, with a surprise in store every night…

Scottish Ballet’s festive favourite returns for the winter season with a new name, glittering new designs, including a stunning art-nouveau-inspired set, and a charming twist to the tale.

Set at the turn of the 20th century in Cinders’ family-run emporium, life is sweet until tragedy strikes and the evil, spiky Madame Thorne arrives to take over. With her ghastly daughters and son in tow, the store is turned into a garish version of its former self. When a Royal Ball is announced, hilarity, excitement and chaos ensue as the Thorne family begin their frenzied preparations to attend.

Taking refuge in the garden, Cinders meets a cast of fantastical characters amongst the roses and is spun into a vision of beauty, worthy of charming everyone at the ball.

Choreographed by Christopher Hampson and designed by Elin Steele, with Prokofiev’s irresistibly melodic score performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, Cinders is everything you adore about the enchanted fairy tale –made sparkling, fresh and new.

Be part of the magic and fall in love with this classic tale all over again.

Wed 7 – Sat 10 Feb 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: TBC

Book early, secure your seat today

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Ivano Turco

HUGO/LOCO John Partridge

McKinnis

Shobna Gulati

PRITTI PASHA

Talia Palamathanan

‘ONE OF THE MOST STUNNING SHOWS I HAVE EVER SEEN’

‘IT WILL MAKE YOU BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF THEATRE’

‘EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS PRODUCTION IS AMAZING’

Based on the best-selling book by Yann Martel, the five-star hit show comes to Newcastle Theatre Royal.

Winner of five Olivier Awards, including Best New Play! After conquering the West End and Broadway, the five star ‘theatrical phenomenon’ (Telegraph) embarks on its biggest adventure yet.

Jaw-dropping visuals and world-class puppetry combine in a unique and ‘breathtaking’ (The Times) theatrical event that is ‘a wonder to behold’ (Daily Mail).

After an epic storm in the Pacific Ocean, Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger.

Based on the global phenomenon and winner of the Man Booker Prize, selling over fifteen million copies worldwide, Life Of Pi is the hugely popular story of an epic journey of endurance and hope. Don’t miss the West End and Broadway spectacle on its first ever UK tour.

Tue 23 Jan – Sat 3 Feb 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 5mins

Recommended: 8+, contains strobes and flashing lights

WINNER OF EVERY MAJOR PLAY AWARD INCLUDING 5 OLIVIERS

Friends save 20% off show tickets

Returning to Newcastle Theatre Royal after selling out in 2023!

After a decade of ground-breaking high concept shows involving overarched interlinked narratives, massive sets and enormous comedy props, Lee enters the post-pandemic era in streamlined solo stand-up mode.

One man, one microphone, and one microphone in the wings in case the one on stage breaks. Pure. Simple. Classic. Basic Lee.

Sun 11 Feb 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 20mins

Recommended: 14+

HHHHH

‘A FEAST OF SUMPTUOUS SILLINESS’

Radio Times

Join us in conversation with the man, the actor and his many roles in an unmistakably unique event.

For over 25 years he captivated millions worldwide as Agatha Christie’s elegant Belgian detective. Beyond Poirot, this Emmy award-winning actor has been celebrated for his portrayal of iconic roles such as Lady Bracknell, Cardinal Benelli and Freud. David has also graced the world’s stages bringing literary greats to life, including Shakespeare, Wilde and Albee.

Meet the actor behind the detective and the many faces he’s portrayed on stage and screen over a career spanning five decades.

Sun 18 Feb 2024

Matinee: 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs 20mins

Following their multi award-winning sell-out success with The Play That Goes Wrong, The Comedy About A Bank Robbery and the BBC TV series The Goes Wrong Show, Mischief return with their riotous spin on a timeless classic, the West End smash hit Peter Pan Goes Wrong

The members of the Cornley Drama Society are back on stage, battling technical hitches, flying mishaps and cast disputes as they attempt to present J.M Barrie’s much-loved tale. But will they ever make it to Neverland?

Mischief’s unique brand of hilarious, ‘gut-busting’ comedy (New York Times), has found universal appeal. Don’t miss Peter Pan Goes Wrong back in Newcastle and brace yourselves for an awfully big adventure!

Mon 12 – Sat 17 Feb 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 2hrs

Recommended: 8+

DYNAMIC, FAST-PACED GALLOP of a SHOW, BOLD and SPIRITED ... like SIX’s LITTLE SISTER

Bouquets and Brickbats

This kick ass-pirational stage show, based on the popular children’s book by Suffragette relative Kate Pankhurst, comes from one of the producers of SIX

Join our inquisitive heroine Jade as she takes a peek behind the scenes at the not yet open Gallery of Greatness in the local museum. Along the way she is surprised to meet the incredible wonder women: Frida Kahlo, Rosa Parks, Amelia Earhart, Mary Seacole, Marie Curie, Emmeline Pankhurst to name just a few.

Hear the stories of some of history’s strongest mothers, sisters and daughters; all independent icons who really did change the world.

An empowering new stage show with characters and songs that pack a popstar punch!

Wed 21 – Sun 25 Feb 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm (not Sun)

Matinees: Fri & Sat 4pm, Sun 3pm

Running time: 85mins (no interval)

See the smash-hit production of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, as it returns vividly and noisily in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s lively score. Join our intrepid family and their musical dog on a quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect interactive fun and plenty of adventure. This mischievous celebration is the perfect treat for families.

Fri 23 – Sun 25 Feb 2024

Matinees: Fri & Sat 10.30am & 1pm, Sun 11am

Running time: 55mins (no interval)

When Dad feels like a little bit of Sunday afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag.

Bluey’s Big Play is a brand-new theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® award-winning children’s television series, with an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush.

Join the Heelers in their first live theatre show made just for you, featuring brilliantly created puppets brought to real life in this UK premiere.

Bluey’s

Fri 8 – Sun 10 Mar 2024

Matinees: Fri & Sun 10am & 1pm; Sat 10am, 1pm & 4pm

Recommended: 3+ Family tickets available Family tickets available

Running time: 50mins

31 Friends save 20% off show tickets

Based on the much-loved picture book by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury

Big Play is presented by BBC Studios and Andrew Kay, Cuffe & Taylor in association with Windmill Theatre Co.

There are no heroes in Simon Beaufoy’s heartfelt play, just a group of lads trying to regain their dignity and pride. This fast and funny play is still very much of our time, as again we are hit by a cost-of-living crisis. Gaz and his mates are down on their luck and feel they have been thrown on the scrap heap, but they are determined to fight back and bare a little more than they ever thought they would have to.

Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the smash-hit film, this brand-new production is a

SÃO PAULO DANCE COMPANY

UK PREMIERE TOUR

‘Passionate and energetic, combining classical technique, fluidity and Brazilian swing’

VILLES DE CANNES, FRANCE

rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, laughs and heartbreak.

Featuring a hot man for everyone! Starring Danny Hatchard as Gaz, Jake Quickenden as Guy and Bill Ward as Gerald, with Neil Hurst as Dave, Ben Onwukwe as Horse and Nicholas Prasad as Lomper.

Evenings:

Brazil’s finest dance company make their highly anticipated UK debut in spring 2024.

Fusing the elegance of classical ballet with the sensuality of Latin American dance, this ‘sleek, sexy and highly technical’ (The New Yorker) company of talented dancers are set to impress with three UK premieres.

Goyo Montero (resident choreographer with Carlos Acosta’s company Acosta Danza) explores the idea of collective identities in Anthem and Gnawa by Nacho Duato (Artistic

‘The best dance company in Brazil’

DANCING TIMES

Director of the Berlin State Ballet) draws on the Mediterranean colours and flavours of Valencia. For the finale, Brazilian choreographer Cassi Abranches’ colourful and flirtatious Agora sculpts the movement of each dancer’s body with the percussive beats and bass grooves of Afro-Brazilian fusion.

Evenings: 7.30pm

Post show Q&A after the first performance Running time: 90mins

33 Book early, secure your seat today

‘STUNNING! Matthew Bourne’s magical version of the Tim Burton classic’

‘Straight from the heart’

‘Full of wit and invention’

Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production has carved a place in the hearts of audiences world-wide since its premiere in 2005.

Based on the classic Tim Burton movie and featuring the hauntingly beautiful music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, this is a witty, bittersweet story of an incomplete boy left alone in a strange new world.

In a castle high on a hill lives Edward; a boy created by an eccentric inventor. Left alone and unfinished with only scissors for hands, a kindly townswoman invites him to live with her suburban family. Can the well-meaning community see past his curious appearance to the innocence and gentleness within?

Wed 27 Mar – Sat 6 Apr 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: TBC Contains recorded music

‘Enchanting. The perfect treat for all the family’

Direct from The London Palladium, the sensational new production of one of the world’s most beloved musicals comes to Newcastle.

Featuring the iconic original score from the Oscar-winning MGM film including Over The Rainbow, Follow The Yellow Brick Road and We’re Off To See The Wizard with additional songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, this spectacular production of The Wizard Of Oz will be a truly magical experience for all the family.

Join Dorothy, Toto, and friends on an unforgettable adventure down the yellow brick road to the merry old land of Oz.

There’s no place like Newcastle Theatre Royal next April.

Tue 16 - Sun 21 Apr 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm, Sun 1pm & 5pm

Running time: 2hrs 5mins

Recommended: 6+

They selflessly saved the war effort on the home front during WWI and still found time to play football! The incredible story of women’s football during WWI and how Blyth Spartans Ladies won the Munitionettes Cup in 1918.

Despite their daily hard, physical work – and competition from dozens of other women’s football teams in the region – Blyth Spartans Ladies became the best side in the North East. These heroic munitionettes have been largely forgotten….until now!

From the team behind Carrying David, Hadaway Harry, The Great Joe Wilson and Mr Corvan’s Music Hall

Sat 27 & Sun 28 Apr 2024

Evenings: Sat 7.30pm

Matinees: 2.30pm

Running time: TBC

Youth Theatre

Our Youth Theatre provides our young members with exciting and creative opportunities to develop performance skills, build confidence and meet new friends, as well as perform on the main stage!

For further information visit theatreroyal.co.uk/creativeengagement/youth-theatre or email Youth-Theatre@theatreroyal.co.uk

Book early, secure your seat today

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‘A rollercoaster ride of laughter and euphoria to sadness and anger... mesmerising’ The Journal

BREAKING NEWS: 30 years since the launch of the trailblazing, smash-hit TV series, the Globelink News team are back, and now live on stage for the very first time.

Starring the original cast members Susannah Doyle, Robert Duncan, Ingrid Lacey, Neil Pearson, Jeff Rawle, Stephen Tompkinson and Victoria Wicks, the iconic BAFTA and EMMY award-winning comedy is reimagined in this brand-new topical commentary on the cutthroat world of 24 hours news.

Bursting with razor-sharp wit and classic British humour, this hot off the press production will leave you in stitches. Written by the same

award-winning writing team Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin (Outnumbered), Drop The Dead Donkey: The Reawakening! exposes the underside of the broadcasting industry in all its riotous glory. Whether you’re one of the legions of die-hard fans of the TV sitcom that was watched by millions at its peak, or a British comedy fanatic, come and experience this hilarious revival of an all-time comedy classic.

Tue 21 – Sat 25 May 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm Running time: TBC

Based on the smash DreamWorks animation, Madagascar – The Musical follows all of your favourite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Join Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria and those hilarious, plotting penguins as they meet in the musical adventure of a lifetime.

Filled with outlandish characters, adventure galore and an upbeat score, you’ll have no choice but to “Move It, Move It!”

Wed 10 – Sat 13 Jul 2024

Evenings: 6.30pm

Matinees: Thu, Fri & Sat 10.30am

Running time: 1hr 35mins

Recommended: 3+ Family tickets available

39 Friends save 20% off show tickets

Tue 6 – Sat 17 Aug 2024

Evenings: 7.30pm

Matinees: Thu 2pm, Sat 2.30pm

Running time: 1hr 50mins (no interval) Recommended: 10+

Winner of four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical in London and the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical on Broadway, this smash hit show shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives with open hearts.

Experience this joyous story and soaring music as spirited locals and global passengers come together to forge friendships that will stay with them forever. The first female American Airlines captain, the quick-thinking town mayor, the mother of a New York firefighter and the eager local news reporter are among the many real characters caught at the start of the moment that changed the course of history and whose stories became a true celebration of hope, humanity and unity.

41 Book early, secure your seat today

Take Part

This summer, why not spend a week with us?

Take part in fun-packed, creative weeks for young people aged 5-17 at Newcastle Theatre Royal this summer.

Find out more at theatreroyal.co.uk/creative-engagement or email creative-engagement@theatreroyal.co.uk

TRY

Join us for a week of discovery! Find out all about the world of Performing Arts, from a building tour to creating new work, directing a show to the art of slap stick and the skill of lighting and sound. A insightful week looking at lots of the exciting elements that go into working in theatre.

MUSICAL THEATRE

An intensive 6-day Musical Theatre week, will see participants working with a voice and singing coach as well as a choreographer as they rehearse some favourite musical theatre numbers before showcasing their talents in a large-scale extravaganza!

5 DAY FILM CHALLENGE

Working with Hype films, budding filmmakers and actors create their own film shorts. Participants will tackle all aspects of producing new work including creative idea development, lighting, sound and editing before premiering their final production in the Theatre Royal Studio to an invited audience of friends and family.

PLAY IN A WEEK

Over 5 days, young theatre makers will work with drama practitioners to create their own piece of work to be performed for parents at an informal show back in our Studio at the end of the week.

How To Book

Book online at theatreroyal.co.uk. Phone sales will be open Mon – Sat 10am to 8pm (6pm when no performance), please call 0191 232 7010. There will be no in person counter sales until one hour before a performance and on Saturdays 1.30-5pm.

Enquiries (not booking requests) can be sent to boxoffice@theatreroyal.co.uk and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Dedicated Access Line: 0191 594 6619

Group Bookings: We offer discounts for groups 10+ and a range of other benefits, visit theatreroyal.co.uk/groups. For bookings call 0191 232 7020 (Mon-Fri 10am to 5pm) or email groupbookings@theatreroyal.co.uk

Booking Information

Mobile Ticketing: Your ticket will be an email with a QR code. There is no additional charge for this and tickets do not need to be printed; simply present your phone to show the email to our staff when you arrive. Mobile tickets will be emailed separately after your order confirmation. If you accidentally delete your ticket email you can log in to your account to retrieve it. Please visit theatreroyal.co.uk/plan-your-visit/ticketing for more information.

Payment: We are a cashless operation. All sales points are equipped with contactless payment facilities, and we also accept Apple and Google pay.

Postage: Tickets will only be posted if a customer has no access to mobile ticketing or print at home ticketing. Please note a postage charge will be applied to any tickets mailed out.

Refunds or Exchanges: Tickets are non-refundable. At the manager’s discretion, tickets may be exchanged up to 24hrs before a performance, subject to availability. Any difference in price must be paid, plus an exchange fee of £1.50 per ticket.

Cancelled Performances: In the event that live performances cannot go ahead, customers will be offered to transfer their ticket to a rescheduled performance, or offered a credit note or full refund.

Friends Of The Theatre Royal: 20% off (Superseats and price bands 1-4), with occasional exceptions. Go to theatreroyal.co.uk/support/become-a-friend for more information. Friends can return tickets for credit up to 24 hours before a performance.

Partial View Seats: Theatre Royal is a historic building and the view from some seats can occasionally be restricted, given the scale of 21st century performances. The seats generally considered to be partial view are indicated on the seating plan though it does vary depending on the show.

Superseats: Stalls row F & G for a small premium. Lots of extra legroom… think business class!

Front Row: Due to the nature of live productions, the front row of the Stalls may be subject to change even after tickets go on sale, without further notice.

Casting: We are unable to guarantee the appearance of any cast member or artist at any performance. Please note, casting may only be announced or may change after tickets have gone on sale.

Babes In Arms: For certain shows children under 3 will be admitted on purchase of a £2.50 Babes in Arms ticket, and must share a seat with you or a member of your party. Due to the layout of the auditorium, we strongly discourage babes in arms, young children or anyone with stimming tendencies such as rocking from sitting in the front rows of the Grand Circle, Upper Circle, Amphitheatre, Grand Circle Side Boxes A & F and Upper Circle Boxes G & K. Children aged three and over must have a full paid for ticket.

For family shows recommended for ages 3+ babes in arms will be admitted to the auditorium at the discretion of the management and where there is available seating capacity.

Should the babe in arms become restless and cause a disturbance, the parent/guardian will be requested to leave the auditorium with the child. We reserve the right to not re-admit.

For all other performances, we regret children under 3 will not be admitted to the auditorium.

During your visit: When purchasing your tickets you are agreeing to abide by all instructions given by our staff; our signage; and our full terms and conditions.

You’re in Safe Hands

Your Safety: We take the security of our venue very seriously and we want customers to feel confident to attend and enjoy live events. We will always be vigilant and entering our venue may take a little more time to allow for bag checks and heighted security measures. Prohibited items will be confiscated and not returned.

Living with COVID-19: We keep our measures under review and will update in line with any new guidance or requirement issued by local or central government. In view of the government’s Living with COVID-19 strategy hand sanitiser stations are located throughout the building; the auditorium benefits from fresh air supply and filtered recirculation with CO2 levels monitored; and whilst mask wearing is no longer required, staff and visitors are welcome to wear one if they wish.

Your Visit

Admission: Latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance, which may not be until the interval. We reserve the right to refuse admission.

No Bag Or Coat Storage: Please be aware there is no bag or coat storage. We strictly prohibit backpacks, holdalls, luggage, shopping bags and computer bags, and you will be refused entry with these items. Exceptions will be made for those with medical requirements and/or special needs.

Consideration for Others: Please remember to switch off all mobile phones, pagers and other electronic equipment before entering the auditorium. The taking of photographs or recording in any media is strictly forbidden. We reserve the right to ask anyone causing a disturbance to other patrons or staff to leave the auditorium. We reserve the right not to re-admit.

Get in touch

Newcastle Theatre Royal Trust Limited, 100 Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6BR

Feedback: We really appreciate your comments and, where appropriate, will respond to them within ten working days. Visit theatreroyal.co.uk/feedback

Newcastle Theatre Royal Trust reserves the right to ask any ticket holder to leave the venue if they are displaying behaviour considered by our team to be unacceptable.

The New Short History of The Theatre Royal

Written by popular local history author Vanessa Histon, it tells the story of the Theatre and the many great performers associated with it, from 1788 to the Theatre’s 175th birthday in 2012. The book is richly illustrated in full-colour and is available by calling the Box Office, priced at £6.99 (20% off for Friends)

Gift Vouchers

Theatre Royal Gift Vouchers are the perfect present for all. Contact the Box Office on 0191 232 7010 for more information or visit theatreroyal.co.uk/ gift-vouchers

Travel and Parking

Find us: Theatre Royal, 100 Grey Street, NE1 6BR

Metro: Travel to Theatre Royal free on the Metro (Monument only) with your theatre ticket (up to two hours before and after the performance) – see theatreroyal.co.uk/plan-your-visit/transports for more information

Parking: Please note New Bridge St, Eldon Square and Manors car parks close at 10pm, Dean St car park sometimes has a long wait time on exit. There are NCP locations near the Theatre Royal, visit ncp.co.uk for more information.

Cycle stands: are located on Grey Street (opposite Lloyd’s Bank). For advice on planning your cycle route to our venues visit Newcastle.cyclestreets.net Detailed information on how to get to our venue can be found online.

All details in this brochure are correct at the time of going to print, errors and omissions expected. We reserve the right to alter programme details and advertised cast without notice. Sales are subject to our terms and conditions and the most up-to-date version can be found at theatreroyal.co.uk/terms-conditions

Our Data Promise: We are committed to protecting your privacy and data. Visit theatreroyal.co.uk/ privacy-policy for more information.

45 Book early, secure your seat today

Access Information

We have set up an Access Membership Scheme in order to improve our service to you and help us provide the appropriate level of care you require whilst in our venue. It could also entitle you to a free ticket for your Personal Assistant (carer).

You can join the Access Membership Scheme by completing a form which is available online at theatreroyal.co.uk/access-membership-scheme

Free companion tickets can now be booked online once you have signed up to the Access Membership Scheme, to book wheelchair spaces please email access@theatreroyal.co.uk or call 0191 594 6619

Assistance dogs are welcome in all areas of our theatre. Sound enhancing headsets are available; please see a member of staff. You can also boost the volume of a performance using our induction headsets which work in conjunction with your hearing aid in the T position. There is an induction loop at Box Office.

Text Relay Service: Available at Box Office –call 18001 0191 244 2596

There are eight spaces for wheelchairs in the auditorium; four in the Stalls, two in the Grand Circle and two in the Upper Circle. There is lift access to all levels of the theatre. Please arrive 30 mins before a performance if you require lift access as our lift is often in constant demand at this time.

There is an accessible toilet on all levels of the theatre.

Accessible entrance: The Main Entrance into the theatre is located on Grey Street. Our accessible level entrance door is Door 1 (nearest the junction onto Market Street). Door 1 is automatic and operated by a push pad located to the right of the door.

Access host: During every performance we have a dedicated Access Host as part of our Visitor Services team. Our access host is on hand to answer any questions you may have during your visit and to help assist customers using our access equipment.

Parking: For details of parking bays for disabled badge holders please visit newcastle.gov.uk/services/ parking-and-permits/disabled-parking-and-bluebadge-scheme/disabled-parking-bays

46 theatreroyal.co.uk

Accessible Performances

Touch Tours: available for some performances.

Audio Described: live commentary provided via a headset for visually impaired patrons.

BSL: An interpreter will give a sign interpretation of what is being spoken or sung by the actors on stage Captioned: English text displayed on a captioning unit for deaf or hard of hearing patrons. Best viewed from the sides of the Grand Circle and selected seats in the Stalls. Some seats will be held until six weeks prior to the performance. See show pages for details. Relaxed Performances: With a less formal and more supportive atmosphere, these are specifically designed to welcome people who might otherwise feel anxious about attending a busy and unfamiliar environment.

The Ocean at the End of the Lane Thu 13 Jul 2023, 7.30pm (BSL); Sat 15 Jul 2023, 2.30pm (AD & CAP & pre-show touch tour)

Winnie the Pooh Wed 9 Aug, 2pm (BSL)

2:22 A Ghost Story Sat 23 Sep, 2.30pm (AD & CAP & pre-show touch tour)

Jesus Christ Superstar Sat 30 Sep 2023, 2.30pm (AD & CAP & pre-show touch tour)

42nd Street Sat 14 Oct, 2.30pm (AD & Cap)

Northern Ballet Beauty & the Beast Sat 11 Nov,

2.30pm (AD & pre-show touch tour)

The Drifters Girl Thu 16 Nov, 7.30pm (BSL), Sat 18 Nov, 2.30pm (AD & CAP & pre-show touch tour)

Pinocchio Sun 10 Dec & Wed 10 Jan, 12 noon (Relaxed Performance), Tue 12 Dec, 7pm (AD & CAP), Thu 14 Dec, 7pm (BSL)

Life of Pi Sat 27 Jan, 2.30pm (AD & CAP)

Scottish Ballet Cinders! Sat 10 Feb, 2.30pm (AD & pre-show touch tour)

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Fri 23 Feb, 1pm (BSL Integrated), Sun 25 Feb, 11am (Relaxed Performance)

Fantastically Great Women Fri 23 Feb, 4pm (BSL Integrated), Sun 25 Feb, 3pm (Relaxed Performance)

Edward Scissorhands Sat 30 Mar, 2.30pm (AD & pre-show touch tour)

Madagascar Thu 11 Jul, 6.30pm (BSL), Fri 12 Jul, 10.30am (Relaxed Performance)

Come From Away Thu 8 Aug, 7.30pm (BSL), Sat 10 Aug, 2.30pm (AD & CAP)

To book an accessible performance please contact the Box Office. For an up-to-date list please visit theatreroyal.co.uk/access-performances

Seating Plan

Stalls

Priority on these seats is given to wheelchair users

Seats with partial view

Row letters

Superseats

This is a representative plan. Please note: Rows A in the Grand Circle and Upper Circle have tight leg room.

47 Friends save 20% off show tickets