After some tough times for theatres across the country, we’re pleased to hear that a new space is about to open on the North East coast. And although the new Laurels Theatre is small, it’s ready to tell some big stories.
Sitting above the buzzy tapas bar known as Laurels Whitley Bay, this live theatre space will give you the chance to catch exciting new work before it breaks the big time. And together with the tapas and bar downstairs, this venue offers a chilled out accessible space to watch a mix of theatre, visual arts and comedy.
Laurels is founded by award-winning theatre producer Jamie Eastlake, and writer and filmmaker Stephen Robertson. It aims to provide a hub for artists and tapas lovers alike. And it’s named after (and in honour of) Stan Laurel, whose father ran theatres on the North East coast, where he first trod the boards.
The opening season of shows at Laurels Theatre
So, what can you see at this new theatre? Well, opening Laurels’ first season is critically-acclaimed Geordie artist Serena Ramsey (New Diorama Theatre’s emerging Artist of 2019) with Waxa Belta Helta Skelta. This solo show is on from 14th to 24th September and takes a surreal look at abandonment, cults and Mammy issues.
It combines live soundscapes, playful storytelling and dark humour. An absurd true story that engulfs us in the explosive world of one Geordie girl with a missing mum. Ramsey brings emotions to the stage that will resonate with anyone who’s ever experienced loss, love and the need for answers. With her unique brand of comedic storytelling, drawing on cabaret and drag, expect to leave laughing, crying and craving a sausage roll.
Later in the season, will be The Psychedelic Fox. It’s another new show, this time by Charlotte Fox and it takes place from 6th to 8th October. Then, just in time for Halloween, is a production of Dracula by Northumberland Theatre Company. Following this is The Bon Bons Cabaret. You can catch this glitter-fuelled night on 13th November.
Fancy doing something different for Christmas? Watch Reece Connolly’s Antichristmas. It’s a story about two young millennials who make an unbelievable deal. The shows continue in the New Year with Wink, a play set in Whitley Bay itself. And later in 2022, is Jerry & Sewell. It’s a play about two lads, featuring puppetry and live music. Finally, energetic play Eng-er-land by Hannah Kumari will welcome in the spring.
Love discovering new plays? Find more fab theatre here!
When: Open from 14th September 2021
Where: 212 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear NE26 2TA
£: Tickets cost from £15 or £10 for concessions
More info: www.laurelswhitley.co.uk/theatre
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