Many theatres in the UK are registered charities that deliver cultural and social benefit to communities. These theatres do not focus on making a profit, but instead re-invest their profits back into charitable activities. Many of these activities involve supporting emerging artists of all disciplines, working with young people, working with disadvantaged groups and generally supporting access to theatre and arts experiences.
Northern Stage is a charity in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, and like many regional theatres, it is more than just a theatre. It is a community arts venue that nurtures talent and a charity that makes theatre accessible to all. Championing inclusivity, education, and community engagement, we extend our reach far beyond our productions. Through fundraising, we’re working to provide opportunities for young people and communities to have relevant and meaningful cultural experiences and ensuring that everyone can experience the magic of live performance.
Northern Stage as a Charity
As a registered charity, our mission is to be a theatre that welcomes everyone. We make and present contemporary theatre, live performances and creative programmes that spark connections, provoke curiosity and joy, and explore new ways of seeing the world.
Our work is not just about producing and presenting shows but about making theatre accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or financial situation. This commitment to inclusivity is at the centre of everything we do, whether it’s through offering affordable tickets, providing participation opportunities, or supporting emerging artists.
The vision is for Northern Stage to be a leading force in making the North East a great place to create, watch and take part in theatre.
We are informed and transformed by a dynamic and diverse community of theatre-makers, audiences, participants and collaborators who will have more opportunities to shape and participate in the cultural life of the city and the region.
The work we deliver enriches the cultural life of the North East, celebrating difference, advancing inclusion, strengthening communities, and using theatre as a force for positive change in the world. We focus on community programmes with a programme of activities for community curators to feed into the programming of work, volunteer opportunities and local place-based partnerships.
Our young people’s programmes focus on supporting young people to gain valuable life skills in confidence, communication and teamwork through drama-based or backstage skills such as work experience in technical roles which prepares them for the working world. We work with local schools, colleges and organisations such as Generator – a creative and cultural talent development agency.
Young People using a lighting and sound desk during their work experience.
We have also launched the artist talent development strategy Scale Up, which helps artists progress in the industry – whether that is from micro to small-scale, small to mid-scale, or beyond. Through Scale Up, artists can expand their skills, experience, and professional networks so that they can achieve their artistic goals.
All of these projects are in addition to the incredible work that happens on stage and everything that goes into getting it there.
Investment in the arts and cultural sector is at a relative all-time low, which is a challenge we face as a charity. In addition to this, GCSE and A-level take up for Drama and Theatre studies has massively decreased and research indicates that 9 in 10 working class parents are against children choosing Arts careers. There is also extensive evidence (as seen in the report from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) on the role of arts in improving health & wellbeing) surrounding the benefits of being involved with theatre and the arts, especially in young people, which includes increased job prospects and enhanced wellbeing. We understand the impact that theatre can have, which is why Northern Stage offers young people and the community valuable opportunities to get involved.
We rely on ticket sales, donations, and fundraising activities to make its magic happen. The support we receive from audiences, supporters, members, charitable donors and local businesses is vital in enabling us to continue our work. Every ticket bought, every donation made, and every hire of our spaces contributes directly to our ability to keep bringing world-class theatre to Newcastle and beyond.
Pay it Forward
One of our most impactful initiatives is the Pay It Forward campaign. This initiative allows audience members to make a donation when buying a ticket or after a show, which helps cover the cost of a ticket for someone who might not otherwise be able to afford to attend a performance. This generosity helps others to overcome financial barriers and ensures that theatre is accessible to all members of the community, regardless of their economic circumstances.
“Everyone had a brilliant morning at Northern Stage. The children were totally captured by the performance and parents loved it also. Since the performance we have received many messages of thanks from our parents for organising the trip and letting us know how much fun they had and I wanted to pass that on. We are a community toddler group that relies on funding and parents weekly subs to keep us running and without the pay it forward tickets we wouldn’t have been able to provide such a wonderful and memorable experience for our group. We are so grateful. Thank you.” – Ellen, Pelton Community Centre
Through Pay It Forward, we are able to distribute tickets to local charities and community groups, ensuring that those who would benefit most from the arts can experience the joy of live theatre. This reflects our belief that theatre has the power to transform lives, and that everyone should have the opportunity to participate in the cultural life of the city.
“[these tickets] will be an amazing treat for some of our families. We are so overwhelmed by this opportunity, please pass on our thanks to everyone who is making this possible.” – Ann Leddra, Byker Pantry
A drawing sent to us by a child who visited thanks to Pay It Forward
Northern Stage Business Club
The Northern Stage Business Club is another way to connect the charity with the local business community. Membership includes invitations to networking events, exclusive offers for shows, and brand visibility through association with one of the North East’s most beloved theatres.
For businesses, this is not only a chance to give back to the community but also to build relationships and enhance their corporate social responsibility profile. The Business Club supports our charitable activities while also offering businesses a platform to connect with like-minded organisations and individuals who share a passion for the arts and community engagement.
Venue Hire at Northern Stage
In addition to our charitable and business initiatives, we offer venue hire options that cater to a wide range of events. Whether you’re planning a conference, workshop, meeting, or private celebration, our versatile spaces provide a unique and inspiring backdrop. From the intimate Stage 3 to the larger Stage 1 auditorium, the venue can accommodate events of all sizes.
What makes hiring with us special is that all profits from venue hire go directly back into supporting our charitable work. So, by choosing us as your event venue, you’re not only getting a great space, but also contributing to a cause that enriches the cultural fabric of Newcastle.
We are much more than a theatre; we’re a charitable organisation dedicated to making the arts accessible to everyone. Through initiatives like the Pay It Forward campaign, the Northern Stage Business Club, and our venue hire offerings, we continue to play a vital role in the community. By supporting Northern Stage, whether as an audience member, a business partner, or a venue hirer, you’re helping to ensure that the transformative power of theatre remains available to all.
Support us today:
Join our business club:
Business Club and Sponsorship | Northern Stage
Hire Northern Stage
Written by Zoe Hull – Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships