Playhouse

Built for Donald Gilbert (Jesmond Playhouse), retaining stage facilities when it became a cinema. Originally opened as the Kursaal, burnt out in the 1920s and largely rebuilt as a ciné-variety theatre with a shallow stage and fly tower. Very simple plain exterior. Plain, remodelled interior with single rake. In 2009, the theatre became part of a major regeneration project and gained an elegant new glass foyer, front of house facilities, box office and bar facilities. The auditorium was redesigned with a steeper raked auditorium and improved seating. There are now five dressing rooms and a green room/company office.