Member Article

Live Works reaches completion on Newcastle Quayside

Live Theatre’s Newcastle Quayside office development, Live Works, has reached completion

Live Works forms part of a continuing diversification of the theatre’s business model and will provide an additional commercial income stream from its letting.

The added capital will allow the Live Theatre to grow and sustain its work in the production of new plays, developing creative talent, education and participation.

The quayside office development sits alongside existing commercial property also acquired by Live Theatre and the whole is designed to create new revenue streams for Live Theatre from rental income to enable it to extend its work.

The 14,920 sq ft premium office space is set within Live Garden - a new public park and performance area linking the theatre with the Quayside.

Jim Beirne, Chief Executive, Live Theatre, said: “Live Works is very important to the future of Live Theatre creating new income streams, to support Live Theatre’s creation of new plays, development of creative talent and unlocking the potential of young people.

“We wanted to develop the area of land in a way that complemented the history and surroundings of our location but also add to our existing creative enterprises to enable our charitable work on stage, on tour and with our communities to thrive in the future.”

The new building has been designed by principal architects Flanagan Lawrence. Jason Flanagan, Architect, who was one of the project architects on Sage Gateshead, said: “The recognition is great news for Live Works and we are confident that the completed scheme brings out the best of this outstanding part of Newcastle.

“Throughout we have been aware of the historic nature of the location and the need to design a scheme that complements the location which is one of Europe’s best-known river frontages.

“What once was a gap between historic buildings has now become an integral feature of the Newcastle Quayside and the change from an unsightly car park to a welcoming public space is of great benefit to visitors to the Quayside.”

Paul Callaghan, Chair, Live Theatre said: “This wonderful project is not just significant for Live Theatre but also for the area as a whole. It is an amazing place for people of all ages, but particularly for children and young people. We are very proud that we have been able to be able to transform the space into something so special.”