Phoenix Theatre

The Phoenix Theatre

The Phoenix Theatre is the go-to location for those wishing to enjoy live performances in South East Northumberland. Located on the corner of Beaconsfield Street and Wellington Street, it is a two-minute walk from the town centre.

To see the Theatre today, the type and high standard of performances they not only host but also achieve in-house, one could forgive a visitor for thinking that the Theatre has been around forever. Yet while those involved in the development of The Phoenix have been stalwarts in artistic excellence for several decades, the building, specifically its current form has only been in existence since 1997.

The aptly named Phoenix is living proof that hard work and commitment can overcome adversity, and is a symbol of Blyth's community spirit at its finest. Initially, an amateur dramatics group that became a recognised charity known as The Blyth Arts and Community Association, the volunteers performed their craft in a converted church – the Primitive Methodist Church.

In 1994, the building condemned due to an unsafe roof meant the organisation had to begin the process of rebuilding. Within three years, the organisation with funding awarded by the National Lottery, The Foundation for Sport and Arts, local authority and other local sources, arranged the construction of a dedicated 300 seat auditorium now known as The Phoenix.

Once through the foyer, guests are greeted by the staff, usually a mixture of volunteers, trustees and the theatre manager, an excellent pre-performance menu (not to mention their increasingly popular supper menu) and a well-stocked bar. As an inclusive venue, the Theatre offers wheelchair access with dedicated wheelchair spaces available (please book in advance) and a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system for those that are hard of hearing.

Performances are typically in the evening, but some shows and events have matinee and day showings - an example being the always popular Christmas Pantomime. From national Theatre acts to live music The Phoenix caters for all. As a measure of popularity and influence, in 2019 the Russian National Ballet Swan Lake performed to sell-out crowds at The Phoenix Theatre. That they have agreed to return in 2021 to showcase their version of The Nutcracker says it all.

Check out their website (listed below) or our Blyth Live Entertainment events list to find out what's on at The Phoenix Theatre over the coming weeks.

The Phoenix Theatre further information:

• 299 seat Auditorium with a superb state of the art sound and lighting system
• Home of the Young Phoenix Theatre Group
• Regular performances from the The Phoenix Theatre in-house actorrs and musicians
• Regularly used by the Beaconsfield Operatic Society for live shows
• The Studio - multi purpose room for workshops, parties and meetings
• The Bar - available for private functions
• The Green Room - used for small rehearsals
• The Foyer - can be used for art exhibitions
• Concessions for Under 16s, Students, Senior Citizens, UB40 Cardholders, Registered Disabled
• Two disabled parking bays at front of theatre
• Tea, coffee, sandwiches and cake available from a restored war shelter

Local businesses are invited to advertise in their event programme brochure. Advertising packages also include Tickets and can be arranged by emailing admin@thephoenixtheatre.org.uk

The Phoenix Theatre will re-open as and when COVID permits but is taking bookings for future performances.