Spring Update from TTOH’s CEO, Jonathan Higgins, Chief Executive

As we move into spring at Tyne Theatre & Opera House, I’m delighted to reflect on a period of real momentum for our organisation — one marked by growth, ambition and an ever‑expanding connection with our community.

 

A Busy and Exciting Programme

Our What’s On programme continues to be rich and varied, reflecting our original vision as “a Theatre for Everyone.” This spring and early summer sees a packed calendar of comedy, music, theatre, talks and family events, alongside nationally recognised touring work and much‑loved returning artists.

Equally important is our growing programme of community workshops and participation activity. From creative workshops and heritage skills sessions to our Community Choir, Youth Theatre and open Heritage Days, these programmes ensure people of all ages and backgrounds can actively engage with the theatre — not just as audiences, but as participants.

 

Heritage Milestones: Stoll Cinema Exhibition

I’m particularly proud of the continued success of The Stoll Picture Theatre Exhibition, now open in our 1867 Café Bar. Made possible with the generous support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the exhibition explores the building’s fascinating cinema years between 1919 and 1974, preserving memories, stories and rarely seen material from this unique period of our history. The exhibition has been warmly received by visitors and stands as a powerful example of how heritage funding allows us to share our past while enriching present‑day visitor experience.

 

Gallery Reseating Project Complete

Spring also marks the completion of the Gallery Reseating Project, another major milestone made possible thanks to support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The project has restored the Gallery to something closer to its original Victorian layout, improving sightlines, comfort and safety while respecting the historic character of the auditorium. This work ensures that more audiences can enjoy performances in our upper levels while safeguarding this important historic space for future generations.

 

Supporting the Theatre’s Future

As an independent charitable venue, the ongoing care of our Grade I listed building and the delivery of our artistic and community programmes depend on the generosity of supporters.

One of the most impactful ways individuals can support our work is by joining the Tyne Theatre & Opera House Friends Club. Our Friends play a vital role in helping us preserve the building, plan for the future and remain a welcoming and accessible venue. In return, members enjoy benefits such as priority booking, ticket offers, regular updates and exclusive opportunities to connect more closely with the life of the theatre.

Supporters can also make a direct contribution to the Tyne Theatre & Opera House Preservation Trust by naming a seat. This unique opportunity allows individuals to dedicate a seat in our historic auditorium, creating a lasting personal connection while directly supporting conservation and restoration work. For those who prefer, one‑off or regular donations are always warmly welcomed, helping us maintain the building, care for our heritage and invest in future generations of theatre‑makers and audiences.

Every contribution, large or small, makes a tangible difference to the long‑term sustainability of this remarkable theatre.

 

Welcoming New Colleagues

I’m pleased to welcome Lindsay Nicholson, who has joined our Community Engagement team, and Emily Oates, who joins our Marketing team. Both arrive at a particularly busy and exciting time for the theatre and are already making a valued contribution across participation, audience development and communications. Their appointments strengthen two key areas of our work: ensuring our historic venue remains accessible, welcoming and relevant to our communities, while continuing to raise the profile of Tyne Theatre & Opera House locally, regionally and nationally.

 

Celebrating Leadership Progression

I’m also delighted to share news of two important internal promotions. Charlotte Ramsay has stepped into the role of Head of Marketing, joining our wider leadership team and providing strategic oversight of brand, campaign planning and audience growth.

At the same time, Dan Hurd has been promoted to Technical Manager, recognising his leadership, expertise and deep understanding of operating a complex Grade I listed theatre. Dan’s role is vital to delivering both our live programme and our heritage activity safely and to the highest professional standards.

These promotions reflect our commitment to nurturing talent within the organisation and building a strong, resilient leadership team for the future.

 

Looking Ahead

As ever, none of this work would be possible without the continued commitment of our staff, volunteers, audiences, supporters and funders. Spring is shaping up to be a season of growth, creativity and collaboration — and I’m excited about everything still to come.

Thank you, as always, for being part of the Tyne Theatre & Opera House story.

Jonathan Higgins
Chief Executive
Tyne Theatre & Opera House