Newcastle Theatre Royal reopens after £4.75m refurb
Newcastle based SURGO Construction has completed the £4.75m contract to restore the auditorium of Newcastle upon Tyne’s iconic, Grade 1 Listed, Theatre Royal.
The extensive restoration of Newcastle’s most famous landmark building also known as, ‘the Grand Old Lady of Grey Street’, has been returned to its former glory following a complete strip out of the auditorium after the theatre went dark in March of this year.
In addition to delivering major construction works, such as demolition of the theatre’s post-Matcham interior architecture, roof repairs and restoration of internal walls, the contractor’s team was also responsible for managing the installation of a full suite of internal finishings. This included doors, screens, ironmongery, ceiling finishes, fittings and fixtures as well as re-carpeting.
Speaking with some pride about the contract, SURGO Construction’s director, Jeff Alexander said:
“SURGO Construction’s own heritage dates back over one hundred years and to work on the project was such an honour. It gave us a great opportunity to showcase our proven ability to work on Listed buildings and tackle sensitive and important restoration projects. In a way I feel that we have done more than simply restoring the auditorium: we have really re-created history. I am sure if Frank Matcham himself were to enter the building he would see the theatre very much as he intended some 110 years ago.
“The success of the project lies in the close collaboration and single-minded approach of everyone involved. The SURGO site team worked closely with experts and specialists, including David Wilmore and Peter Hall, as well as traditional craftsmen. Together they have ensured that the work we have carried out is ‘true to the period’.
Richard Briers, actor and patron of Theatre Royal added:
“My wife and I were thrilled to see the culmination of the hard work done by SURGO at the re-opening of the Theatre Royal. It is astonishing to think that they turned the auditorium and foyer areas from what looked like a demolition site, with bare walls and floors, to a stupendous looking interior, fit for a king, in just six months.
“The quality of the work stands out in every area from the seating and carpeting to the wood and plaster work enhanced by the gold leaf. Just as the staff and theatregoers are proud to be associated with their Theatre Royal, SURGO can be justifiably proud of the work it has done.”
Due to celebrate its 175th anniversary next year, the Theatre Royal re-opened in September with a performance of Alan Bennett’s, Madness of King George.