Newcastle Theatre Royal has opened its doors to an elegant, design-led new bar which aims to broaden the iconic building’s connection with the wider community.

The Green Room, named after a room which is traditionally allocated in theatres for actors to relax between performances, is a stunning space at 11 Market Street, which encapsulates and pays tribute to the rich and challenging history of the Grade 1 Listed building.

The Vision

The concept is for the bar and lounge to be a vibrant, cultural hub where theatre goers and members of the public can relax and socialise in a luxurious and stimulating ambiance.

Visitors can also access and book tickets at the theatre box office through doors which link The Green Room with the foyer of the stalls.

Unique Artwork
The unique design and artwork of the assembly space stem from a creative collaboration of enterprises who were passionate about enabling visitors to enjoy a special experience.

The team comprises architects MawsonKerr, interior designers, Design North, and design house BOBO1325 whose sumptuous scenic wallpapers depict distinctive and dramatic focal points.

The artwork consists of provocative and captivating collections of paintings which mark milestones in the landmark theatre’s long history.

They include the Macbeth raven, which symbolizes the play being shown before the fire of 1899 which devastated the theatre after a performance of Macbeth on November 24th.

Another historic highlight features a thief stealing a pocket watch and ring and alludes to The 40 Thieves – the opening show after the renovation which was completed in 1901.

Beth Travers from design house BOBO1325 said: “The creative collaboration has been incredible. We were all passionate about creating a space where theatre goers can decompress after a production before returning to the real world.”

“Theatre is escapism. It’s where art, truth and fantasy collide. Ater working closely with the theatre team, Design North and MawsonKerr, the Green Room’s scenic wallpaper came to life and have been designed for those who want to live within the stories of these four walls for just a little bit longer.”

Connecting The Theatre And Wider Public

Will Mawson, co-founder of MawsonKerr architects, said: “The Green Room was conceived as new assembly space reconnecting a series of previously annexed public spaces and connecting the theatre further to the city. The Green Room has its own personality which is tied respectfully to the historic building with nods to the past as with the stories told in Beth’s artwork.”

The creative team wholeheartedly agree that working with the Theatre Royal to produce an innovative space has been a dream.

Charlotte Allan, Design North Associate Interior Designer, added: “We have created an interior that feels both calming and welcoming, with elements of luxury and opulence that will cultivate a connection between the Theatre and the wider public. Beth’s artwork perfectly encapsulates this vision. The bespoke wallpaper tells stories; it keeps the Theatre’s history alive.”


The Green Room is open from 11am to 11pm daily. Find out more at https://thegreenroombar.co.uk.
For information on performances, visit https://theatroyal.co.uk/whats-on