NE1 Get Into Newcastle Issue 214

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ISS.214 10 - 23 FEBRUARY 2022

Get into

Newcastle YOUR FREE FORTNIGHTLY GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN NE1

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY

Whether it’s tracking down the perfect gift, marking your love with ink or a romantic supper, we’ve got Valentine’s Day covered!

HALF-TERM HIGHLIGHTS

Diaries at the ready for another action-packed half-term for all the family! The city centre is brimming with tons of activities this Feb...

THEATRE ROYAL TURNS 185

The Theatre Royal will mark 185 years on Grey Street this February! Flick to page 10 for our glorious guide on this Newcastle icon!

WE ARE HIRING We are always looking out for talented people to join our award winning agency.

With a growing range of exciting clients, we like to work with the best of the best and in order to do that, we ensure our team contains the best of the best.

OUR CURRENT VACANCIES • DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER • MID WEIGHT GRAPHIC DESIGNER • UX DESIGNER • FRONT END WEB DEVELOPER • SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER If you would like to learn more about this role then please email guy@allies-group.com, visit allies-group.com or call 0191 500 7900 for a chat and to learn more about our exciting opportunities.

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GET INTO NEWCASTLE CONTENTS

Come and visit us online sometime: getintonewcastle.co.uk

Food & Drink

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Art & Culture

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Music & Nightlife

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Family Fun

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Shopping

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/GetIntoNewcastle newcastlene1 @NewcastleNE1

If you wish to submit a listing for inclusion please email: listings@ne1magazine.co.uk For advertising call 0191 500 7865 or email: sophie@allies-group.com Get into Newcastle is published by Allies Group Ltd

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Allies Group Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0SR allies-group.com Publisher Christopher March chris@allies-group.com Editorial Matthew Thomas matthew@allies-group.com

EACH ISSUE WE WELCOME YOU TO THE MAGAZINE WITH AN INTRODUCTION FROM A MEMBER OF THE NE1 TEAM, GIVING YOU THEIR UNIQUE TAKE ON WHAT’S GOING ON.

FRESH FROM THE PRESS

Welcome back to your local favourite, the Get into Newcastle magazine, filled with everything you need to have a fantastic February in the Toon.

If you’re making plans for 14th, look no further – whether you’re looking to impress your other half with Valentine’s treats, or challenge your squad to a Palentine’s games night, we’ve got the full guide here.

We hope your Valentine’s Days are drama-free though, because we’ve got enough theatre content in here to last the rest of the month. The landmark Theatre Royal turns 185 years old this February, so flick to page 10 for a trip down memory lane celebrating its fascinating history and what we can look forward to.

Speaking of looking forward, dare I say that brighter days are in fact on their way – so get back out there and enjoy all that our city has to offer. You made it through January, you deserve it!

NICOLE WHITTLE PROJECTS EXECUTIVE

Johnathan Ramsay johnathan@allies-group.com Advertising Sophie Harrold sophie@allies-group.com Design David Stubbs Euan Underwood studio@allies-group.com Image credit: vecteezy.com All contents copyright ©2022 Allies Group Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused.

No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All content marked 'profile feature' is paid for advertising. All information is correct at time of going to print, February 2022.

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ISSN 2516-7839

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WE HOPE YOUR VALENTINE’S DAYS ARE DRAMA-FREE THOUGH, BECAUSE WE’VE GOT ENOUGH THEATRE CONTENT IN HERE TO LAST THE REST OF THE MONTH.

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 3

AROUND THE CITY

Our pick of 10 unmissable highlights arriving in the city this fortnig ht

The coming weeks...

1 ACROSS THE CITY

Valentine’s Day

14 February It’s that time of year again! From starry-eyed cinema screenings to colourful tattoo parlours, lovey-dovey restaurants, romantic club nights and spots for singletons to cast spells over their exes (yes, such a place does exist here in the city!), we’ve got you covered in NE1 this Valentine’s Day! Move along Paris; NE1 is the city of looooveee…

4 Wylam Brewerey

2 THEATRE ROYAL

Animal Farm

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HA YM

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From 22 February Glide over to the Theatre Royal for a slice of thrilling theatre that’ll have you on the edge of your seat! George Orwell’s world-famous fable is touching down and you’re all in for a treat. Re-imagined by an award-winning creative team, Animal Farm is a dynamic and contemporary take on a timeless story. It features stunning puppetry from ​​Toby Olié, awe-inspiring stage sets from four-time Olivier award-winner Bunny Christie and is a must-see! theatreroyal.co.uk

m

3 O2 ACADEMY NEWCASTLE

ABBA Disco Wonderland

19 February Round up your super troopers and call your dancing queens! Enjoy a supercharged night of euphoric sing-alongs at O2 Academy Newcastle this Feb, as ABBA Disco Wonderland touches down in the city for a spectacular night of feel-good music! Expect an epic party as live DJs and theatrical actors blast through ABBA’s crowd-pleasing tunes all night long. Get in! academymusicgroup.com

The Lofts 10 3 O2 Academy Newcastle

4 RIVERSIDE NEWCASTLE

The Night Café

23 February You change with the seasons! A new wave of jangly, effervescent pop-rock sounds from Liverpool will be touching down in the city this February, as fast-rising scouse lads, The Night Café, arrive in the city to celebrate their debut album, 0151. Get ready to sing your heart out at Riverside Newcastle to a scintillating setlist of rip-roaring indie tunes. Tickets are flying out for this one, bag yours now before they’re all gone! riversidencl.co.uk

5 SEVEN STORIES

Mog the Forgetful Cat and Friends From 21 February Our chums at Seven Stories have a super new workshop you need to know about! With February half-term fast approaching (flick to page 21 for our epic guide!), Seven Stories are inviting you and your little cherubs to celebrate the wonderful world of Judith Kerr and her iconic feline friend, Mog the Cat! Head here, meet some new friends and embark on a series of activities as you help Mog and friends to remember! Now, where were we? sevenstories.org.uk

4 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

6 Boiler Shop

AROUND THE CITY

at a glance 6 BOILER SHOP

Ross From Friends

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18 February While we’d love to see David Schwimmer busting out searing mixes in the Toon, we’ll just have to make do with multi-award-winning techno superstar, Felix Weatherall, a.k.a, Ross From Friends instead! One of the UK’s biggest DJ talents, Felix and chums are heading to Boiler Shop this February for a monumental night of spectacular electronic sounds. Make sure you catch him live! boilershop.net

Northern Stage

8 NORTHERN STAGE

7 THE STAND

You Heard Me

M RK ET Et RO

Fern Brady

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Theatre Royal 2

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The Stand

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22 February The hilarious Fern Brady is coming to NE1 to deliver her snarling and riotous solo show, Autistic Bikini Queen at The Stand! Totally unique and completely fearless, Fern’s cutting wit, exceptional writing and electric stagecraft have made her one of the UK’s hottest comedy stars and it’s an exclusive show you won’t want to miss! thestand.co.uk

World HQ

18 - 19 February Settle in for a wonderful tale at Northern Stage as Luca Rutherford’s stunning play, You Heard Me, takes to the stage for a poignant celebration of women across the globe. You Heard Me is a thought-provoking play that follows Luca on her journey to recovery following a vicious attack. A superb production that tackles themes of victim-blaming, mental health issues and self-development, be sure to catch this unforgettable piece of theatre live in the city! northernstage.co.uk

5 Seven Stories

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9 WORLD HQ

Congo Natty & Guests 19 February Boogie on down to World Headquarters for a scintillating evening with Congo Natty! Celebrating over 30 years as a renowned MC and lyrical master, join Congo and his crew as they deliver a jungle masterclass that will have you grooving all night long. Tickets start from £11 and are selling like hotcakes! welovewhq.com

10 THE LOFTS

Hannah Wants

18 February Ooof! Hannah Wants, one of the globe’s brightest electronic stars, is heading to The Lofts this season to treat revellers to her monumental house tunes! Having performed headline slots in Ibiza and tearing the house down at Leeds Festival in recent years, Hannah has skyrocketed onto the global stage thanks to her thumping basslines, soaring melodies and endorphin-inducing drops.

Catch you on the dancefloor! theloftsne1.co.uk

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 5

NEW IN NE1

Word on the street INSPIRING INSIGHTS AND EXCLUSIVE NEWS FROM ACROSS THE TOON THIS FORTNIGHT...

EXCITING NEWS FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL ARENA

Game-changing news regarding Quayside developments! It’s recently been announced that Sage have been confirmed as the naming partner for the transformational NewcastleGateshead Quays arena! A North East business that has sponsored the Sage since 2004, we’re delighted to share the news that a £10m deal has been struck as building work powers on. A bold, £300m project, that, once finished, will be capable of hosting the globe’s biggest artists in a world-class space, we can’t wait to see this area of the Quayside glistening with a new arena!

PABLO EGGS-GO-BAO ARRIVES IN NE1!

NORTH EAST FABLES TO BE REIMAGINED IN SPECTACULAR NORTH OF THE TYNE, UNDER THE STARS EVENT

A feast for the eyes will soon be arriving in the city centre, plans have just been announced to transform the city into a kaleidoscopic playground as North of the Tyne, Under the Stars lights up Newcastle! Taking place over the 4/5 and 12/13th March, this brand spanking new event will sprinkle magic across the city as imaginative, atmospheric and large-scale projections bring North East fables to life. A wonderful project between Newcastle City Council, Pinwheel, DAT Events and North of Tyne Combined Authority, a series of events and workshops will welcome visitors of all ages to the city before culminating in an awe-inspiring festival finale near Newcastle Civic Centre! Visit the website for more info on what’s shaping up to be a monumental event for the city. undernorthtynestars.co.uk

NEWCASTLE BUSINESS SUPPORT GRANTS ARE LIVE!

Heads up to all of our beautiful businesses out there in the city!

Newcastle City Council’s business support grant is now live and in full swing, meaning you can now apply for a range of grants to help reduce Omicron’s impact on your business. These grants are aimed at supporting businesses that have been hard hit by reduced trade and cancellations due to fears over the spread of Omicron in the run-up to the Christmas trading period. So, for businesses both big and small, the all-important link for the latest grant is below - get to it! www.newcastle.gov.uk/covidbusinesssupport

6 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

The super-popular Pablo Eggs-Go-Bao has arrived in NE1! This unique eatery has set up shop on Blandford Street, serving up their signature flavour-filled breakfast bao buns! A true North East foodie icon, head here and plump for a crispy hash brown nestled alongside a succulent sausage patty, topped with melty cheese and a soft omelette - all snuggled nicely in a bouncy bao bun.

They’ve got veggie and vegan options too, so get over and make your next breakfast baotastic! eggsgobao.com

STRIKING NEW LIGHTING GIVEN GOAHEAD FOR NORTHUMBERLAND AND PILGRIM STREET!

Woah, check this out! The city centre transformation project is beginning to take shape, as it’s just been revealed that 11 sculptures, inspired by the wooden guide poles found across the causeway to Holy Island, are to be installed on Northumberland and Pilgrim Street! Decorated with medieval patterns and copper etchings by local artists, planning permission for the pillars has been granted and will serve the city as a new feature and light up our city’s streets at night! We can’t wait for them to be installed! newcastle.gov.uk

NEW IN NE1

WORLD CLASS DJ LINE-UP ANNOUNCED FOR NEW MUSIC EVENT!

Cracking news for festival season! We’re buzzing to learn that the city will welcome Lost Minds Festival into Leazes Park on 30 April with a monumental line-up! Headlining this awesome debut festival will be Dutch international DJ Nicky Romero! A global talent with an unmistakable sound, he’ll be joined by Ben Nicky and spinetingling sounds of trance euphoria will be provided by John O’ Callaghan. From the big-room superstars and titans of trance to the old skool pioneers, get the group chats fired up, book your tickets now and get ready for an experience like no other! facebook.com/lostmindsfestival

KENNY ATKINSON TO OPEN A BRANDNEW CITY CENTRE RESTAURANT!

THE BROAD CHARE NAMED ONE OF THE UK’S BEST GASTROPUBS

Another accolade for our city’s amazing hospitality sector? Get in! We’re buzzing to learn that The Broad Chare has been awarded 19th place in a list of the 50 Best Gastropubs in the UK! It’s been dishing up proper pub food and lush beer since 2011 and it’s no surprise to us here in NE1 that this collaboration between Terry Laybourne’s 21 Hospitality Group and the Live Theatre achieved a spot on this prestigious list! It’s safe to say this is a huge achievement for the team and we can’t wait to get down for a pint to celebrate! thebroadchare.co.uk

THE HOI POLLOI LAUNCH BRAND NEW RANGE OF COOL MERCH!

Boom! The crop connoisseurs on Nun Street are back with a brand-new bag of seriously cool merch! Inspired by the love our city has for football, be sure to feast your eyes on The Hoi Polloi’s very own football shirt! The guys have a few shirts left in stock, and we think this will go down as an iconic bit of Toon paraphernalia in years to come! wearethehoipolloi.com

Game-changing news to bring you, folks! We’ve heard through the grapevine that Michelin Star chef, Kenny Atkinson, will be opening a brand-new eatery in Newcastle and we are beyond excited! Set to replace Violet’s on the Side in the coming weeks, Kenny and Abbie Atkinson are weeks away from flinging the doors open and welcoming tons of discerning foodies to their new finedining spot, Solstice. We’re pretty certain it’ll be one the city’s hottest spots for a delightful bite or two, so keep your eyes peeled for a grand opening date! instagram.com/solstice_ncl

MAGIC BOX CELEBRATES 30 YEARS ON NORTHUMBERLAND STREET

Big news for one of Northumberland Street’s most-beloved shops! We’re raising a glass to the wonderful folk at Magic Box who are celebrating three decades in the city. This magnificent shop has been supplying the party-goers of Newcastle with everything from rainbow coloured wigs to spooky masks of your favourite horror movie villains. We’ve all been there, queued halfway down Northumberland Street on the day before Halloween, relying on Magic Box to save us from a boring homemade costume! They always pull through and for that we thank them, Newcastle just wouldn’t be as fancy without you Magic Box! magicboxfancydress.com

ALLAN SAINT-MAXIMIN GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

When he’s not busy scoring bangers and making defenders look silly, Allan’s generally just being a top Geordie and it’s evident with his latest show of lush community spirit! The NUFC star donated a substantial sum to Newcastle West End Foodbank after being made aware a fan was selling face masks to raise cash for the charity - the latest of his series of good deeds. It seems Allan’s a class act on and off the pitch...

NE1 AND BOBZILLA ADD A VIVID SPLASH OF COLOUR TO THE GROAT MARKET

Woah! What a difference some vibrant colour makes! If you've been up to the Groat Market recently, you can’t have missed the massive Bobzilla mural we recently commissioned alongside the owners of the Cathedral Square building. It’s a wonderful installation packed full of wavy shapes, cool colours and eye-catching designs and we are properly chuffed with the final result, adding yet another reason to visit the amazing Bigg Market area! What do you think? Tag us in your snaps at @NewcastleNE1 next time you’re out and about in the city!

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 7

LOVED UP

Love is in the

air

14TH FEB

NEWCASTLE IS FOR LOVERS THIS FEBRUARY! VALENTINE’S DAY HAS ROLLED AROUND AGAIN AND IT’S TIME TO FEEL THE LOVE IN NE1. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT BOUQUET FOR YOUR BEAU, A ROMANTIC DATE VENUE OR JUST A NIGHT OUT WITH YOUR GANG, NE1’S GUIDE TO VALENTINE’S DAY HAS GOT YOU COVERED! Shower with flowers >>

Cultured couples >>

EVERYMAN CINEMA

Take a step back in time this Valentine’s Day with a trip to Everyman Cinema for the most amazing vintage cinema experience! Boasting comfy double seats, lots of leg-room, table service and an amazing old fashioned American cinema atmosphere, Everyman Cinema on Grey Street is a film lover’s delight! everymancinema.co.uk

MOTOON VALENTINE’S SPECIAL 18 FEBRUARY

We’ve heard it through the grapevine that love songs and dancefloor fillers are the name of the game at Wylam Brewery’s Motoon Valentine’s Special! Get your dancing shoes on and head up to the picturesque brewery in Exhibition Park for some soul and motown bangers. Take your lover by the hand or find another singleton boogieing down and party the night away! wylambrewery.co.uk

PLANTOPIA

Offering options a little more out of the box than your classic bouquet, Plantopia is the perfect place to visit for a special green-fingered gift for your loved one! The STACK-based plant shop is packed with cacti, hanging plants, Venus Flytraps and rare species as far as the eye can see. Nothing says I love you quite like a large Devil’s Tongue Cactus! plantopiaplantshop.co.uk

Make a lasting impression >> NORTHSIDE TATTOOZ

5TH AVENUE FLOWERS

You can’t go wrong with flowers on Valentine’s Day, it’s the classic gift and it’s stood the test of time for a reason! Treat your significant other to a gorgeous bouquet from one of Newcastle favourite florists, 5th Avenue Flowers! The Queen Street shop has been bursting with colour since it first opened its doors in 1981 and it’s filled to the brim with beautiful cuts that are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face this Valentine’s Day! 5af.com

8 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

Get a tattoo of someone or something you love at Northside Tattooz this Valentine’s Day! They’re one of Newcastle’s most popular and trusted parlours, with over 10 artists ready and waiting to fulfil all of your love-related ink needs! Quick suggestion, ‘I Love NE1’ would fit perfectly across your knuckles - don’t feel obliged though... northsidetattooz.co.uk

PINS AND NEEDLES TATTOO STUDIO

Grainger Street’s Pins and Needles Tattoo Studio is a great place to pop in for some matching tats this Valentine’s Day. Their windows are always full of super cool designs and they also do laser removals, so if you break up you can just go back and get it off! (Call us cynical!) It’s a win-win! facebook.com/pins.ne1

LOVED UP

Date night >>

Palentine’s >>

KALTUR

With two stunning venues, on High Bridge and Dean Street, Kaltur is the perfect place to take a culinary trip to the rolling hills of Catalunya this Valentine’s Day. Make things cheesier than a 90s rom-com with their famous cheese sharing boards, tuck into tasty Spanish tapas and soak up the laidback Iberian vibe with a bottle of the good stuff! kalturrestaurant.co.uk

ROUTE

This British bistro on the Side is the place to go this Valentine’s Day for some unfussy seasonal plates that are full of flavour and flair. The multiaward-winning restaurant will no doubt sweep your significant other off their feet with its outrageously tasty and stylish dishes! Head here and enjoy Lindisfarne oysters, monkfish topped with miso sabayon and round it all off with a wonderful rhubarb pavlova! routenewcastle.co.uk

THE GEORDIE WITCH

Valentine’s Day isn’t all about couples and lovey-dovey meals, it’s about self-love too! That’s where The Geordie Witch comes into play. Treat yourself to some enchanting stones, relaxing incense and even cast a spell on your wicked ex (we’ve all got one!) at this incredible little shop of magic in Eldon Square! facebook.com/thegeordiewitchnewcastle

THE MUDDLER

Grey Street is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful streets in the city – and boy does it make for a wonderful date night spot. Take your lucky Valentine for a perfect Pan-Asian feast at the low-lit, sleek and stylish restaurant that is The Muddler. A culinary trip to enjoy lip-smacking dishes in a romantic venue, complete with a divine range of mains, drinks and desserts? Sign us up! themuddlernewcastle.co.uk

FAT HIPPO

The burger aficionados over at Fat Hippo have cooked up another corker of a special for Valentine’s Day! Sparks are about to fly with their brand new Sirieix On Fire burger, featuring a succulent double beef patty with buttered steak (yes steak!) and Béarnaise mayo served with delicious truffle fries! It’s a date! fathippo.co.uk

Sweet treats >>

HOTEL CHOCOLAT

Who doesn’t like chocolate on Valentine’s Day? Put a smile on their face this year with some incredibly indulgent chocolates from Hotel Chocolat!

Their special Straight From The Heart collection will have your significant other head over heels for you! hotelchocolat.com

PET LAMB PATISSERIE

Fall in love with the Grainger Market all over again this Valentine’s Day with some truly scrumptious brownies, cupcakes, and sweet treats from Pet Lamb Patisserie!

Once you’ve stopped eating them yourself, maybe consider keeping some of these amazing bakes for your Valentine? petlambpatisserie.com

GREGGS

What’s Valentine’s Day without some self-care? It does fall on a Monday after all, so why not grab a lush little sweet treat from Greggs for that mid-day pick up! Novelty bun with a heart ring? A sugar strand doughnut?

Or both? Go on... treat yourself! greggs.co.uk

SMASH SPACE

Love can be stressful and this Valentine’s Day you might just want to let that stress out. Head down to Smash Space on Scotswood Road and clear your mind with 15 minutes of smashing good fun in Newcastle’s first ever rage room! smashspace.co.uk

POINT BLANK

Shoot your shot this Valentine’s Day... literally. Get your crew together and head down to Point Blank for an evening of cocktails and virtual shooting range hijinks! Their super stylish venue is the perfect place to pull the trigger on an amazing night-out. pointblankshooting.co.uk

REVOLUCIÓN DE CUBA

Round up your besties and hit Revolución de Cuba for a vibrant and care-free Valentine’s brunch with some Cuban flavour! Raise a glass to your single pals with a mimosa at this lush city centre spot! revoluciondecuba.com

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 9

NE1 ICON

Theatre Royal celebrates

185

years on Grey Street!

A JEWEL IN NEWCASTLE’S CROWN THAT CONTINUES TO DRIVE WORLDCLASS CULTURE INTO THE HEART OF THE CITY, THE THEATRE ROYAL WILL MARK 185 GLORIOUS YEARS ON GREY STREET THIS FEBRUARY, AND WE THINK THAT CALLS FOR A CELEBRATION! SETTLE IN, AS WE TAKE A LEAP BEHIND THE SCENES TO BRING YOU AN INSIGHT INTO THE THEATRE ROYAL, ITS FASCINATING HISTORY, BIG PERFORMANCES FROM BIG NAMES AND THE WONDERFUL WORK THEY DO IN THE COMMUNITY. CURTAIN UP! Granted its Royal licence by King George III during the 18th century, the Theatre Royal Newcastle originally opened on Drury Lane, just off Mosley Street in 1788, and soon established itself as one of England’s leading

theatres. Operated by Stephen Kemble of the notorious Kemble family (they basically ran Britain’s theatre sector for decades!), the Theatre Royal became a real hit for wealthy citizens who flocked from far and wide to see the latest travelling act.

The first production to take to the stage in 1837 was Shakespeare’s ‘The Merchant of Venice’ preceded by a communal rendition of God Save the King!

10 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

In February 1837, the Theatre moved to Grey Street, a flagship building in Graingertown as part of John Dobson’s famous city transformation!

The new theatre on Grey Street was designed by Benjamin Green and

In 2016, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s star-studded and multi award-winning musical Mary Poppins had a spectacular run at the Theatre Royal spanning almost two months! The magical story of the world’s favourite nanny was seen by nearly 70,000 people and brought nearly £3million to the Box Office!

opened under the management of Montague Penley on 20 February 1837, and awestruck citizens clamoured to get a view of the city’s stunning new cultural hub.

A raft of blockbuster names of the stage have trodden the Theatre Royal’s famous boards! From Henry Irving to Laurence Olivier and Dame Judi Dench, as well as Hollywood greats such as Orson Welles, Charlton Heston, and Jack Lemmon, A-listers have always jumped at the chance to perform at one of the greatest theatres in the world!

NE1 ICON

Looking to the future…

YOU’VE LEARNED ALL ABOUT THE THEATRE ROYAL’S GLITTERING PAST, NOW IT’S TIME TO TAKE A LOOK AT THE WORLD-CLASS PRODUCTIONS TAKING TO THE STAGE IN ITS FUTURE, THROUGHOUT 2022!

It features what we reckon is probably one of the finest Theatre façades in the UK, later combined with a fine 1901 auditorium by the great theatre architect, Frank Matcham, after the original interior had been destroyed by fire during a performance of Macbeth in 1899 - something that was definitely not part of the script (see, it is unlucky!)...

A GRAND DESIGN...

Newcastle Theatre Royal is one of only nine Grade I-Listed theatres in England, and since opening in 1837 it has been renovated many times to keep this exquisite space glistening!

One of the major renovation projects occurred just recently. In 2011, a sixmonth restoration recreated Matcham’s classic 1901 Edwardian design with reprinted wallpapers, carpets featuring the original patterns and extensive gold leaf work, period light

fittings, brassware and ornamentation throughout, as well as reinstating lost tilework.

In addition to this, the famous Grey Street portico was given a new lease of life thanks to conservation measures to clean and protect its iconic structure.

The installation of a new lighting system to show off the splendour of the main entrance was added. You should definitely check it out next time you’re passing, it’s a wonderful photo opportunity! (It’s not as if you could miss it could you!)

THE STAGE IS YOURS! Not only do the Theatre Royal welcome the biggest names and best productions to the stage, but this wonderful lot also nurture the region’s brightest talent through their wonderful collaborative course with the Northern School for Drama, Project A! A wonderful initiative designed to give back to the arts community and get local people up on stage, Project A gives students the chance to shine on the biggest stage and provides an invaluable pathway in the arts.

Notable graduates include Rosie Bowden who starred in Macbeth, Sophie Jane Butler who appeared in Grease and Jamie Dennison.

Nice work!

SCHOOL OF ROCK 28 MARCH - 2 APRIL

Get ready to stick it to the man! The global hit musical based on the iconic movie starring Jack Black is touching down in the Toon and we’re certain wannabe rock star, Dewey Finn and his mind-blowing school rock band, will strike a chord. A must-see for all music lovers out there!

THE BOOK OF MORMON 15 JUNE - 9 JULY Woah! Did you know that Sir Ian McKellen, (you know, one of the most famous and accomplished British actors in modern memory!) has described the Theatre Royal as his favourite venue in the entire world? Don’t think we’ll disagree with the mighty and wise Gandalf!

Hello! The Book of Mormon is headed to NE1 and this outrageous musical comedy from the creators of South Park, Avenue Q, and Frozen is certain to blow your socks off! The musical follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get. Now with sold-out productions in London and on Broadway, The Book of Mormon has become a global sensation - and it’s heading to the city this summer. A musical must!

In 2021, shortly after re-opening, Theatre Royal staged not one, but two world premiere musicals here in the city!

Theatre-goers were treated to a dazzling week of Bedknobs & Broomsticks, before a three week run of The Drifters Girl stole the show ahead of its West End transfer.

THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL 4 - 8 OCTOBER

Oh, nice! Theatre Royal has just announced that a brand sparkling new theatre adaptation of the Sunday Times Bestseller, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, is arriving in the Toon! Undoubtedly one of the globe’s biggest films, this wonderful new production takes us on a journey to India with an eclectic group of British retirees as they embark on a new life. A vivid, vibrant, and gorgeous evening of world-class theatre awaits!

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 11

Food & Drink

NE1 REVIEWS:

CÔTE BRASSERIE

Fantaisie Française!

INSPIRED BY THE CHARMING BISTROS FROM THE STREETS OF PARIS, CÔTE BRASSERIE IS ONE OF THE TOON’S MOST DELECTABLE SPOTS WHEN IT COMES TO SAMPLING OPULENT CUISINE IN A LAVISH SPACE. WE SWUNG BY DURING NE1’S NEWCASTLE RESTAURANT WEEK FOR A TASTE OF THEIR AUTHENTIC FRENCH CLASSICS AND LET US BE CLEAR, C'ÉTAIT MAGNIFIQUE!

Standing tall on Grainger Street, Côte Brasserie is a grand restaurant that encapsulates the quintessential essence of Parisian eateries found tucked away in the French capital’s quaint suburbs.

It’s undisputedly one of NE1’s top establishments when it comes to delectable French gastronomy coupled with elegant cocktails served within a cosy cosmopolitan space.

The interior of Côte Brasserie, similar to the food, is spectacular. It’s a decadent restaurant that features alluring lighting, complementary

colourscapes and Art Nouveau features to create a truly beautiful place to dine.

With NE1’s iconic Restaurant Week lighting up our social diaries, we weren’t about to sleep on a spectacular three-course dinner for just £15!

Our tasting nirvana begins with a pear and goat’s cheese salad; a delicate plate featuring endive, hazelnuts and raisins with a generous helping of grated chicory. A special glimpse into the magical mains that are en route.

With glasses topped up with a fruity white from Bordeaux (Château Sainte-Marie for all you wine connoisseurs out there!), our plats principaux arrive and our love for mouthwatering food and Restaurant Week continues to soar...

We opt for a wonderfully delicate sea bass fillet and chickpea taboulé. The sea bass fillet (cooked to absolute perfection we might add!), is a joyous treat that’s accompanied by steamed baby potatoes, French beans, a sprinkling of croutons

and generously topped with caper and tarragon dressing.

Next up is the chickpea taboulé. Here, we have a melting pot of red rice, roasted root vegetables, chickpeas, grilled broccolini and toasted seeds with harissa infused yoghurt topping.

A truly outstanding dish that combines vivid Lebanese ingredients with authentic French cooking traditions to maximum effect.

It’s January, we’re falling behind on our diet and we’ve convinced ourselves that February will be the month of exercise and clean eating, and so we throw caution to the wind by diving head first into Côte’s delicious dessert menu.

While the sound of velvety dark chocolate mousse and tangy lemon sorbet sends our hearts racing, we plump for the seasonal berry pavlova and the tarte aux mirabelles. Both of which, are truly out of this world.

Nestled on a delicate bed of crème chantilly, the seasonal berry pavlova arrives with a crisp crust, airy meringue and topped with an array of seasonal berries.

Let it be said now, Côte’s tarte aux citron needs placing in a food & drink hall of fame (if there’s one out there!). This wonderful lemon and almond tart dessert, accompanied with a dash of lemon

compote and crème anglaise was perfectly balanced between too tart and too zesty. The standout dish for us!

There are no cheap thrills here. Just exquisite French flavours served up by a passionate, attentive team who aim to shower diners with warm hospitality.

A beautiful restaurant befitting the city centre, Côte Brasserie is the perfect spot to celebrate with spectacular French cuisine this February. cote.co.uk

“

THERE ARE NO CHEAP THRILLS HERE. JUST EXQUISITE FRENCH FLAVOURS SERVED UP BY A PASSIONATE, ATTENTIVE TEAM WHO AIM TO SHOWER DINERS WITH WARM HOSPITALITY. 12 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

Food & Drink

A natter with NE1 >>

Mother Mercy How has Newcastle shaped your offering?

Newcastle is an incredibly lively city.

It’s full of vibrant people and it’s a feature I’ve always loved about our region. We wanted to create a space where guests could escape the hustle and bustle, yet still, retain that vivid vibe the city is renowned for. We have DJs every weekend and it’s a great place for those looking for chilled vibes, great drinks and a cool spot to catch up with friends.

What makes a Mother Mercy cocktail?

Admittedly, we are absolutely ruthless with our approach to quality at Mother Mercy! One of the standout qualities is the use of fresh ingredients. We hand-squeeze every lemon, lime, pineapple and watermelon every day before service and you can really taste the difference. Many of the standards we’ve acquired from House of Tides and The Savoy have been implemented at Mother Mercy, so you can be assured of an exceptional quality cocktail.

A WONDERFULLY INTIMATE COCKTAIL BAR NESTLED IN THE OLD GEORGE YARD BASEMENT, MOTHER MERCY HAS SOARED ONTO THE NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT HAVING BEEN NAMED ONE OF THE UK’S BEST COCKTAIL BARS RECENTLY. NE1 CAUGHT UP WITH NEIL DONACHIE, THE MASTERMIND WHO’S SETTING THE UK’S COCKTAIL SCENE ALIGHT, TO GET THE LOWDOWN ON HIS WONDERFUL CITY CENTRE SOIRÉE SPOT...

Tell us a little about yourself?

How did you get into hospitality scene?

I became interested in hospitality when I got a part-time job at the old Popolo site on Pilgrim street around 12 years ago during my time at university here.

At the time, Popolo was a nationally recognised bar and was one of the city’s favourite places to drink. I was surrounded by an extremely talented

team of people and saw the potential in a career in hospitality!

By the time I came to graduate, a once in a lifetime opportunity came to apply for a role at The Savoy Hotel in London through a close friend. I spent three fabulous years being surrounded by the most talented hospitality team in the world and learnt some invaluable skills.

How did the Mother Mercy journey begin?

During my time in London, I had always wanted to return and open my own bar. Having lived in several cities and even worked at the Savoy, there was always something special about Newcastle that encouraged me to return.

After a few

years of working at House of Tides as Bar Manager and for Fentimans Ltd, I felt I had learnt enough to give it a go.

We spent a lot of time looking for the right venue and here we are with our lovely spot!

To be named as one of the best cocktail bars in the UK must have been a proud moment for you...

It really is! A lot of the time many industry awards become incredibly London-centric. Being so far ‘upNorth’, it's often hard to get the judges and awarding bodies to the city to recognise the work you’re doing. This makes the recognition even more special and is a reflection of all the hard work the entire team have put into making sure every guest that visits us has the best time possible.

Give us some top tips for those wanting to master an at-home cocktail recipe...

Follow a good recipe! Difford's Guide is a great place to start for unusual and quirky recipes. *Always* use fresh ingredients and juice your citrus by hand!

Buy nice glassware. Good drinks are just as much about touch as they are taste!

WANT TO SIP ON AWARD-WINNING COCKTAILS? GET BOOKED IN WITH MOTHER MERCY NOW

BY FOLLOWING THE LINK BELOW! MOTHERMERCY.CO.UK

TO ADVERTISE call 0191 500 7865 or email sophie@allies-group.com // TO SUBMIT YOUR LISTING email listings@ne1magazine.co.uk

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 13

Art & Culture

Cultural highlights THERE'S PLENTY OF COMEDY, THEATRE AND FILM TO KEEP YOU ENTERTAINED THIS FEBRUARY...

FERN BRADY 22 FEBRUARY

Catch comedy queen, Fern Brady, as she storms into the Toon this February for a rip-roaring rendition of her stunning new show, Autistic Bikini Queen. Renowned for her scathing jibes, acerbic wit and uncompromising style of humour, Fern has appeared on Live from the BBC, enjoyed stratospheric viral success with her BBC Life Lessons and supported the likes of Frankie Boyle and Katherine Ryan on sell-out tours! She’s fast, furious and heading to The Stand stage. Don't miss her, as she tackles sexuality, feminism, Brexit and Britishness in a ferocious hour-long comedy crusade. Trust us, this is an artist you don’t want to miss! thestand.co.uk

YOU HEARD ME 18 - 19 FEBRUARY

Listen up, folks! Northern Stage has a wonderful new production you need to know about. Brought to you by the incredibly talented Luca Rutherford, Maria Crocker, Melanie Wilson and Tanuja Amarasuriya, You Heard Me is a poignant celebration of a single moment of noise that freed Luca from a vicious attack.

We join this brave heroine on her journey as she comes to terms with her ordeal, her healing process and how it feels to be part of something much bigger than yourself. A beautiful piece that touches upon themes of reconstruction, selfdevelopment and disruption. Make sure you’re front and centre for a sizzling slice of theatre when it arrives in the city. northernstage.co.uk

TREE UNTIL 12 FEBRUARY

Our chums at Alphabetti are inviting all the culture connoisseurs to St James' Blvd this February to celebrate the life-affirming joyride that is Tree! A wonderful theatre production that celebrates love and friendship, Tree takes us into the world of Rowan and Hazel; two chums who are knee-deep in a chat about life and humanity. Through a series of cosy and uncomfortable chats, Rowan and Hazel soon begin to dissect their lives in hilarious and heart-breaking fashion whilst uncovering a few white lies here and there. Brought to you by the award-winning team behind Sucking Eggs and Rocket Girl, Tree is Alphabetti’s latest cultural gift to the world go see it! alphabettitheatre.co.uk

THE CINDER PATH 12 FEBRUARY

One for the Catherine Cookson fanatics! The wonderful Tyne Theatre & Opera House is welcoming a reimagined production of The Cinder Path to the stage this Feb and you cannot afford to miss out! A sizzling and fast-moving drama, set against the backdrop of WW1, The Cinder Path follows the whirlwind journey of Charlie Macfel who becomes an innocent witness to the murder of his cruel and sadistic landowner father - it’s a classic whodunit tale! Featuring a talented cast of 15 brilliant actors and singers, The Cinder Path is bursting with a fascinating story, fabulous stage production and an unforgettable musical score! Catch it live in NE1! tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

NT LIVE: THE BOOK OF DUST: LA BELLE SAUVAGE (2022) 17 FEBRUARY

Everyman Cinema has another cracking adaptation of National Theatre hitting the silver screen this season! Time to cosy up with a bag of goodies and settle in as The Book of Dust revisits Philip Pullman’s fantastical world in which waters are rising and storms are brewing. A vivid viewing experience, this sensational screening takes us into the lives of two young people as they try to outrun a terrifying manhunt (oooh!). A tale of epic proportions, book your tickets via the link and settle in for some seriously monumental cinema magic this February! everymancinema.com

14 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

DRAG ME TO LOVE 10 - 12 FEBRUARY

Bonnie and The Bonnettes are back in action with a brand new glamorous affair at Live Theatre! Set in Doncaster, 2009, Drag Me To Love is a wonderful autobiographical, three-person show that combines drag performance with theatrical storytelling to bring us the story of Bonnie and The Bonnettes! Set against a backdrop of pop anthems and sparkly glitter, Drag Me To Love is an uplifting production centred around meeting new people, discovering your true self and how to walk in a pair of 6-inch stilettos. A show that'll have you laughing one moment and reaching for the tissues the next, head to Live Theatre as The Bonnettes drag you into love. live.org.uk

Art & Culture SPAGHETTI CODE LOVE 21 FEBRUARY

WOKE 10 - 11 FEBRUARY

Woah! A glorious bit of theatre is arriving at Northern Stage this season, and we're pretty certain that Woke is going to blow your socks off! A wonderful story about the 20th Century African American experience, this dazzling production is set against a powerful soundtrack of original music and traditional gospel that follows the path of two women, 42 years apart, who become involved in the struggle for civil rights. Having won the coveted Scotsman Fringe First Award for its premiere season, Woke is a heart-enriching thrill ride that'll inspire and educate in equal measure, and it's one you need to see. northernstage.co.uk

Fancy diving into the vivid world of Japanese film? Tyneside Cinema are screening first-time feature director, Takeshi Maruyama’s Spaghetti Code Love this Feb, and let us be clear, it’s a sumptuous feast for the eyes!

Part of The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2022, Spaghetti Code Love is a wonderfully crafted flick that combines thirteen individual stories into an expansive gathering of narratives. From Shingo’s battle with loneliness despite his soaring online popularity to Momoko’s tragic tale of heartbreak and addiction, Spaghetti Code Love has been picking up critical acclaim across the globe and it’s your turn to find out why. Tickets start from £10.75, book yours now! tynesidecinema.co.uk

ERIC & ERN 15 FEBRUARY

One for all the family! Take a trip over to Tyne Theatre & Opera House to enjoy Eric and Ern's brilliant homage to Morecambe and Wise! Crammed full of famous comedy sketches, such as Grieg’s Piano Concerto, Mr Memory… Arsenal and the paper bag trick, this side-splittingly funny show is packed full of daft one-liners, ridiculous sketches and more! From the Olivier Award-nominated duo Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens, this nostalgic show is full of Morecambe and Wise’s most loved routines, songs and sketches and of course a musical guest. This show hits all the right notes! tynetheatreandoperahouse.co.uk

ANIMAL FARM - THEATRE ROYAL FROM 22 FEBRUARY

George Orwell’s world-famous fable touches down at Theatre Royal this February, as the story about revolution and its aftermath, Animal Farm, comes to life in an extraordinary theatre show! Re-imagined by an award-winning creative team, Animal Farm is a dynamic, daring and contemporary take on a timeless story.

Directed by Robert Icke, whose version of 1984 was a smash-hit in the West End and on Broadway, Animal Farm features wonderful puppetry by Toby Olié (whose credits include War Horse, Running Wild and Goodnight Mister Tom we might add!) and is designed by four-time Olivier award-winner, Bunny Christie. Catch it live in the Toon this season! theatreroyal.co.uk VALENTINES OFFER 3 courses and a glass of prosecco or wine on arrival. £25pp

LUKE KEMPNER: MACHO MACHO MAN 19 FEBRUARY FASCINATING AÏDA 13 FEBRUARY

Satirical cabaret act, Fascinating Aïda - featuring Dillie Kean, Adele Anderson and Liza Pulman - are heading out on tour and this uproarious lot are swinging by the Theatre Royal! With a selection of old favourites, songs you haven’t heard before and some you wish you’d never heard in the first place, the songs are hilarious and topical – the glamour is unstoppable.

With three Olivier Award nominations, over 25 million YouTube hits for Cheap Flights and their incredibly rude Christmas tune, how can you possibly miss them? theatreroyal.co.uk

Luke Kempner is one of the UK’s hottest stand-up comics and luckily for us, he’s heading to The Stand for an exclusive show! Armed with a hilariously razor-sharp roster of contemporary impressions, Luke has become a household name and we cannot wait to be rolling in the aisles with his highly anticipated brand-new show, Macho Macho Man. Strap yourselves in for a riotous evening of witty comedy as Luke tries to work out what masculinity really means with the help of Louis Theroux, the cast of Downton Abbey and Jürgen Klopp!

Tickets are flying out for this one, be sure you don’t miss this remarkable one-man show from one of Britain’s most exciting new comedy talents. thestand.co.uk

For Valentines bookings please reserve your table on Instagram, Facebook or by emailing wafilounge@outlook.com

Lebanese grill - beer - cocktails - DJ

50 Clayton Street West, Newcastle, NE1 4EX

wafi-lounge.co.uk

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 15

Music & Nightlife

City sounds!

GET YOUR GLADRAGS ON AND HIT THE TOON FOR SOME GREAT GIGS THIS FEB!

ABBA DISCO WONDERLAND 19 FEBRUARY

Get your platforms on and boogie on down to O2 Academy Newcastle for a magical tribute night of non-stop, back-to-back greatest hits from Swedish chart icons, ABBA! You’ll be transported right back to the golden era of pop, with live DJ performances, theatrical actors and so much more ABBA mayhem live on stage! Disco fever has well and truly touched down in NE1! academymusicgroup.com

THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW 2022 13 FEBRUARY

Get your air guitars at the ready! The Classic Rock Show is back, bigger and even better, celebrating the best-ofthe-best of classic rock at O2 City Hall Newcastle! Strap in for a night filled with big riffs and even bigger singalongs as the hits of Led Zeppelin, Dire Straits, AC/DC, The Who and more are thundered out live on stage.

Get your hands in the air and rock out all night long! academymusicgroup.com

NOVA TWINS 13 FEBRUARY

The growling bass guitar of Georgia South and the powerful vocals of Amy Love will be tearing the house down when they touch down at The Cluny this season!

This effortlessly cool duo will be bringing their hard-hitting fusion of punk-rock to NE1 for one mighty show and we cannot wait to see them live. Taking inspiration from all corners of the sonic spectrum, from Betty Davis to Missy Elliott, you can expect the unexpected when they hit The Cluny stage. A mega music gig that's not to be slept on! thecluny.com

HANNAH WANTS 18 FEBRUARY

Get prepped for another massive night at The Lofts, as one of the brightest stars in the global electronic scene gets behind the decks - the fantastic Hannah Wants! Witness Hannah’s epic skills as she takes the party to the next level with her hard hitting set. This one is shaping up to be an unmissable night of electronic music greatness! theloftsne1.co.uk

No, it’s not David Schwimmer rocking out on the decks, but it is one of the most talented electronic music producers on the block, Ross From Friends - aka Felix Clary Weatherall!

He’ll be bringing the vibes to Boiler Shop this month for one massive set, expect high octane floor fillers and hands in the air bangers as this talented DJ rocks the decks! boilershop.net

One of the most influential bands to have emerged from the punk era, The Stranglers are hitting the road again, swinging by Newcastle’s O2 City Hall for a rip-roaring one-night-only gig! Expect thunderous new material and fist pumping classics with a catalogue spanning over forty years! academymusicgroup.com

CONGO NATTY & GUESTS 19 FEBRUARY

An absolute legend of UK jungle and one of the fastest chatters to ever pick up a mic, Congo Natty, AKA Rebel MC, will be taking World HQ on a lyrical journey this February. Keeping the energy high into the small hours, Congo lighting up a room is an experience you've got to see! welovewhq.com

A NIGHT AT THE BREWERY - THE MUSIC OF QUEEN 19 FEBRUARY ROSS FROM FRIENDS 18 FEBRUARY

THE STRANGLERS 18 FEBRUARY

Wylam Brewery have teamed up with World Headquarters and Nat Turner Live Events to bring you an extra special evening celebrating one of the world's most iconic rock bands!

Experience the music of Queen, performed by an incredible ensemble of the UK’s best session musicians. It’s going to be one huge night of epic orchestral rock paying homage to the champions of stadium anthems! wylambrewery.co.uk

16 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

NE1

checks in with

The Night Café

FAST-RISING LIVERPUDLIAN ROCKERS, THE NIGHT CAFÉ, SPOKE EXCLUSIVELY WITH NE1 AHEAD OF THEIR HUGE SHOW AT RIVERSIDE ON 23 FEBRUARY! You had a big 2021, dropping a new EP, supporting DMA’s, featuring at tons of UK festivals. What was the highlight for you?

Making the EP was really fun, it was a period of time when we were all just non-stop creating and had a lot of fun on the videos too which is always a big laugh. Being able to play a few shows near the end of the year felt good after such a long period with no gigs.

You’re finally getting to head out on your headline tour with the majority of venues sold out! How much are you looking forward to arriving in the Toon?

We cannot wait, yano! It's been a long time coming and we can't actually believe it's so close now. To finally get to tour our debut album, it's going to go off majorly.

12.02.22 - 13.02.22 IT'S THE WEEKEND!

#Whataweekend Rise and shine

AM

COFFEE AND CHILL CU L

ON THE HORIZON RE TU

SHOP TIL’ YOU DRO P!

Mooch the market!

Time to broaden your cultural horizons with Laing’s stunning new exhibition, Portrait of an Artist!

Comprising over 85 oil paintings and prints, this vibrant display offers you the chance to gaze at awe-inspiring works from Evelyn Dunbar, Albert de Belleroche, Winifred Knights, Alan Sorrell and William Strang. Not to be missed! laingartgallery.org.uk

Lunchtime!

A breath of fresh air since arriving on Market Lane a few years back, Horticulture has quickly become one of the Toon’s go-to spots when it comes to diving into a delightful lunchtime treat. Order the Korean pork belly and thank us later... horticultureuk.co.uk

BOL D

Wander the vibrant alleys of the Grade I Listed Grainger Market! Built in 1835, the Market boasts everything from cobblers, florists, and jewellers to haberdasheries, artisan bakeries, high-quality butchers and greengrocers. graingermarket.org

Awe-inspiring art!

BIT ES AT

Head to Bohemia on Collingwood Street and dance the night away with quality techno tunes on a sleek, neon-lit dancefloor!

Boasting decadent drinks and bundles of good vibes, there’s nothing quite like a Saturday night shindig in Bohemia! facebook.com/bohemianewcastle

US

R

IO LOR ,G GIGS

HIT T HE GIG

Join Teddy Swims, as he whistles into Newcastle University with his signature blend of hip-hop and r&b tunes! Part of his exclusive UK Tour, dance all night long with your pals to brilliant bangers with this world-class artist! ncl.ac.uk

S!

M

Settle in for a relaxing morning bite at Pink Lane Coffee! Serving speciality coffee and delicious treats, this place has everything you need to get your Sunday off to a cracking start. pinklanecoffee.co.uk

COFFEE FIRST, T U B PRE-MATCH RIT

Pre-match fuel

Head to Gallowgate for a pint at Shark Club Gastro Bar this Sunday, and soak up an electric match day vibe!

Get all of the day's sporting action from the big screens as you meet the gang before heading over the road to St James' Park to cheer on the lads! sharkclub.com

Toon Toon!

Black and white army! Head over to St James’ Park as the boys go searching for a Premier League home victory against Stevie G’s resurgent Villa side.

Expect an electric atmosphere as the boys tear the Villa to shreds (hopefully!). nufc.co.uk

Ravishing roast

Panto thrill-ride!

PM

RV

SC

E

Don’t miss the chance to see Agnieszka Chylinska as she touches down in NE1! Stopping by Riverside Newcastle, the alternative-indie Polish superstar is taking to the stage to showcase why she’s considered one of the globe’s biggest popstars! riversidencl.co.uk

E FFE

Polish pop queen!

A ' S P E CIAL' PAN TOMIME

Kick back in the elegant confines of the Grade II Listed Bewick House with a hearty Sunday roast at The Town Wall! Tuck into their stunning Sunday menu and see the weekend out in style. Expect roast sirloin, giant Yorkshire puddings and steamed seasonal veggies! Lush! thetownwall.com

Settle in for a wicked and wild pantomime at Prohibition Cabaret Bar on Pink Lane! Join The Velvet Snatch (yes, that’s her name...) and her hilarious crew of drag kings and queens for a night of song, dance, acting, horse masks, and of course, Jeff Bezos. prohibitionbar.co.uk

T I M E FOR A HOW H E E A R T A Y Y ROAS T H T E LA DS

Soulful sounds

O FLO E C DAN

AM

Pink Lane perfection

UAL

HOR TI

DJ turn it up!

SUNDAY P

SATURDAY

Venture over to Les Petits Choux for fluffy scones and sumptuous coffee. Sitting facing the picturesque Leazes Park, this charming coffee hideout is the perfect way to start your weekend! les-petits-choux.co.uk

Setting you off on another perfect weekend in NE1!

ENT

POLISH POP TUNES

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 17

Family Fun

Half-term on the horizon!

FROM 21 FEBRUARY

KEEP YOUR TRIBE BUSY WITH BUNDLES OF SCRUMPTIOUS FOOD, WONDERFUL WORKSHOPS AND COOL CULTURAL AFFAIRS! For hungry explorers

STACK

A fantastic hub for entertainment, culture and foodie fun! A vibrant urban village brimming with local independent eateries and bars, tuck into a wide range of mouthwatering cuisines at STACK with the likes of Acropolis, Bao Down, Boojie Burger and Redhead’s Mac n Cheese all serving up seriously delicious bites! stacknewcastle.com

PIZZA HUT

Watch your cherubs’ eyes light up as Pizza Hut’s kids menu lands on the table! Nestled in The Gate (the perfect post-cinema trip spot), Pizza Hut is inviting your tribe to dine out for a purse-pleasing price with their ace kids offering.

Young ones can choose from the Little Boss menu that features pizzas, spaghetti bolognese or chicken before diving into an idyllic ice cream sundae! pizzahut.co.uk

WAGAMAMA

Give little ones a mouthwatering taste of authentic Japanese cuisine with a culinary expedition over to Wagamama at Eldon Square! This oriental palace is home to a mega range of smaller Japanese dishes where little ones can broaden their foodie horizons with a mini chicken ramen or their oh-so-popular katsu dish! A lovely place to spend half-term tucking into simply delicious morsels! wagamama.com

NANDOS

Let your little cherubs dive into delightful Afro-Portuguese flavours this half-term. With restaurants in Eldon Square, The Gate, and on Westgate Road, Nando’s have designed a special menu for kids under 10 that’s jam-packed with a bunch of different options for the young foodies out there. The best thing? Nando’s kids menu clocks in at just £5.95 - chicken never tasted so good! nandos.co.uk

BABUCHO

There’s no one pickier than little ones at a restaurant, they know exactly what they want! So, take your tribe down to Lower Dean Street so they can make their own pizza! Watch as your kids get creative in the kitchen with the opportunity to decorate their own chef’s hat, make their perfect pizza and even meet Babucho’s top chefs! babucho.co.uk

For gamers, graphics & geeks THE CTRL PAD

From retro classics including Super Mario, to the latest blockbuster releases for PS5 and Xbox, The CTRL Pad are welcoming little ones from all over the Toon to escape the house, spark those imaginations and run wild into dazzling alternative universes. So, whether you’re a gaming pro or have never picked up a controller before, the friendly team at The CTRL Pad have your half-term in the Toon covered. thectrlpad.com

YUME WORLD

The Gate’s spectacular gaming hangout is back in action and they are offering gamers an incredible variety of offers this half-term. Avid gamers can enjoy 30% off all games on Monday and Tuesday and 3 for 2 on Virtual Reality rides every Thursday! It’s a must-visit for those wanting to explore the future of gaming or try the spectacular world of VR during the half-term! facebook.com/yumeworld.newcastle

18 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

FORBIDDEN PLANET

The Forbidden Planet team are inviting comic fanatics from across the North East to lose themselves in the wonderful world of comics! Standing tall over on Grainger Street, Forbidden Planet is a bustling entertainment hub that specialises in exclusive comics, rare trading cards and collectable board games. Don your Marvel kit and look forward to a day of fantastic fantasy fun this February! forbiddenplanet.com

TRAVELLING MAN

Head to Travelling Man if you’re keen on flicking through page after page of Marvel hardbacks, DC prints and an epic supply of manga titles! Whether your kids are looking to add to their Daredevil collection or just beginning to dip their toes into comic books and graphic stores for the first time, one trip to Travelling Man on Grainger Street will have them coming back time after time for more! We can hear our wallets creaking from here... travellingman.com

Family Fun

For culture chasers MOG THE FORGETFUL CAT AND FRIENDS 21 - 23 FEBRUARY

Oh, nice! This half-term, Seven Stories are celebrating the wonderful world of Judith Kerr with a spell-binding storytime adventure with Mog the Cat who is a very, very forgetful feline. Help Mog and her friends to remember where her belongings are, and join in with a bunch of exhilarating activities that’ll have you exploring every crevice of this wonderful venue. sevenstories.org.uk

For family adventures

STEPNEY BANK STABLES

Trot on over to Stepney Bank Stables in the Toon and book in for a Junior Jockey lesson! Saddle up and enjoy a 30-minute pony riding session with the experts. You'll learn how to clean your pony with a grooming guide, and then you'll head inside for an exciting, pony-inspired art and craft workshop. The perfect activity for the little animal lover in your life! stepneybank.co.uk

VICTORIA TUNNEL TOUR FROM 21 FEBRUARY MOUSE HOUSE THROUGHOUT HALF-TERM

Don’t miss a special adaptation of Great North Museum’s much-loved Museum Mice sessions this February! The Mouse House is here and the lovely GNM team are inviting young ones and families to explore the museum in a day bursting with free adventure and excitement! Exploring tons of different themes using the museum’s gallery, Mouse House is the ideal activity for little ones to explore, make new friends and learn about a new topic with a series of fun and engaging games! greatnorthmuseum.org.uk

Experience the city like never before! This glorious guided tour is perfect for your gang and those setting out for a day full of Toon discovery! Using just your senses (it’s pretty dark down there you know!), you will learn how hard life was during World War II, see and touch the original tunnel built in 1842, listen out for the air raid warning, hear how planes flew overhead and how the people went about their daily lives. A day out bursting with the history of our great city awaits! ouseburntrust.org.uk

Tue 15 - Sat 26 March 2022

ART ACADEMY

The Laing Art Gallery is pulling out all the stops for creative makers this summer with several art schools for different age groups throughout halfterm. 7-10-year-olds can enjoy various three-day academy sessions and 11-16-year-olds can take part in a fantastic four-day offering. Be inspired by Laing's broad collection and explore and develop your artistic skills and techniques! laingartgallery.org.uk

Introducing the best new plays by rising talent

DISCOVERY DAYS: FEBRUARY FUN 22 & 24 FEBRUARY

Broaden your kids’ cultural horizons with Discovery Museum’s fascinating halfterm workshop, Discovery Days! Taking inspiration from the spectacular Newcastle Town Hutch that’s displayed in their Newcastle Story gallery, families can enjoy a blast from the past by learning all about this 19th century Toon artefact, which was used to keep the town's money and documents safe. Children can also build their own secret store box. The only question is, what treasures will you store in your own creation? discoverymuseum.org.uk

BALTIC FAMILY DAYS THROUGHOUT HALF-TERM

BALTIC is inviting the whole family out for two fabulous days of free activities!

Bursting with creative challenges and exciting games, come together to explore making, painting and movement with BALTIC’s fab resident artists. With tons of pop-up areas and delicious foodie treats on offer throughout the day, make sure you get involved with BALTIC Family Days! baltic.art

Tickets: £6 – £8, many events FREE

(0191) 232 1232 www.live.org.uk

Live Theatre Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3DQ Follow Live Theatre #ElevatorFestival

Live Theatre is operated by North East Theatre Trust Limited, a registered charity number 513771.

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 19

Shopping

It must be love

BERRY’S JEWELLERS

Get ahead of the game and make it a Valentine’s Day to remember with Berry’s Jewellers on Grey Street. Spoil your special someone with something from Berry’s inspiring selection of stylish jewellery and watches from the world’s biggest designer and luxury brands. berrysjewellers.co.uk

STILL SHORT FOR INSPIRATION AFTER OUR MONUMENTAL VALENTINE’S DAY GUIDE? FEAR NOT! WE’VE PULLED TOGETHER SOME CRACKING GIFT IDEAS FROM COOL CITY CENTRE INDEPENDENTS AND HIGH-STREET FAVOURITES...

Gorgeous gifting >>

GEORDIE GIFTS

A love yee! Make sure you check out the hilarious Toon-themed greeting cards at Geordie Gifts! Part of our wonderful front cover, this charming independent nestled inside the Grainger Market is home to hysterical cards and gifts - perfect to help you show that special someone just how much they mean to you! geordiegifts.co.uk

WATERSTONES

Whether Valentine’s Day brings bundles of gifts or a solitary card from your mother, the lovely lot at Waterstones have heaps of ideas for wonderful novels when it comes to gifting loved ones or burying your head. Whether you’re shopping for a book of sonnets or looking to fall in love with Natasha Lunn's wonderful new novel, be sure to head to their beautiful Emerson Chambers store for some Valentine's inspo! waterstones.com

MICHAEL KORS

What’s better than receiving flowers and chocolates on 14 February?

Artful accessories and stunning jewellery items from Michael Kors obviously! Head to their Blackett Street store and secure yourself some brownie points with their Valentine’s collection! michaelkors.co.uk

UPSIDE DOWN PRESENTS

Track down the perfect gift ahead of the Valentine’s rush at UpSide Down Presents, 61 The Side. Here you’ll find heaps of local art, fine photography and all the quirky keepsakes to put big smiles on your loved ones’ faces. It’s a lush small business offering big things to the people of NE1 and beyond!

61side.co.uk

Exhilarating experiences >>

GLAMOROUS OWL

Boy, do we have the experience for you! Lovebirds should travel down the cobbled streets of Old George Yard and settle in for a wedding ring-making workshop! Run by the lovely Claire, these awardwinning bespoke sessions are designed entirely around the couple and include personal tuition, afternoon tea, a bottle of fizz and photographs of your day! The cute class starts is available to book now! theglamorousowl.com

PANDORA

You can always rely on Pandora to come up trumps with an enchanting gift come Valentine’s Day. F​​ rom meaningful charms to expertly-curated gift sets, their Eldon Square store is bursting with endless ways to celebrate your affection. Head here and make sure you’re not one of those forgetful fools caught outside their mile-long queue on the 13th! It’s as if we’re speaking from experience... uk.pandora.net

BLACKFRIARS

Ooh, la la! Blackfriars have a wonderful chocolate workshop on offer this Feb! Taking place on the 13th, they’re inviting lovers to create their choccy gifts with an array of flavours before baking your very own Valentine’s Day cake! Space for this one is super limited, so get your spot booked now! blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

Has Cupid's arrow backfired?

NE1 is home to world-class divorce solicitors that will help you go your own way, forget all about that tainted love and ditch those wicked exes of the North East. Go on, cry us a river!

20 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

19.02.22 - 20.02.22 IT'S THE WEEKEND!

Guiding you through the city's best bits this weekend!

#Whataweekend It’s coffee o’clock!

Lunchtime treat

AY STARTS HERE

ATURD AM S

TE CIDER! AND

Mega food and drink festival!

Pre-show cocktails!

FUL L S TE AM

AHE AD

Sausage and Cider Festival arrives in NE1 this February! Get ready to sample a great array of amazing craft ciders and the finest sausage bangers at Newcastle Civic Centre! With a huge variety of delicious treats from the finest butchers around, this will have you licking your lips in no time! sausageandciderfest.co.uk

Make your way to The Hudson for cool cocktail tipples, rich Belgian beers and artisanal ales! Go here with the gang before E for an unforgettable Saturday night on the Toon!

COFFE H S LU thehudson.co.uk

For the record…

!

LO NG

There’s nothing quite like a serene stroll! Leazes Park is the perfect place to wrap up warm and take your pup for a meander through the park! Take in the beauty of the season and enjoy the fresh air on your cheeks as smatterings of bluebells begin to pop up. Spring is just around the corner!

Hit the high street!

Take a trip to Eldon Square and get stocked up for the spring season with cool kit from some of the Toon's biggest names! Turn the high street into your catwalk with designer pieces from AllSaints, Hollister, Fenwick, Levis and John Lewis. Go on, treat yourself! eldonsquare.co.uk

Stellar Sri Lankan cuisine!

Have you been to Ury Supasatra on Queen Street? What are you waiting for?!

Bursting with vibrant colours and an array of intense flavours, Ury serve up the perfect taste of Sri Lanka with mouthwatering morsels such as aromatic crab curry and pan fried seabass! Just some of Ury’s show-stoppers mains, make sure you pay them a visit this Feb! uryrestaurants.com

Sensational Sunday shindig

Hoochie’s beloved S.O.S.A is back again and it’s the only way to round off an exhilarating weekend of sweet beats in the city. Brimming with Marvin Gaye belters, Curtis Mayfield crackers and much more, head here and get down to epic DJ sets and glorious tunes! hoochiecoochie.co.uk

MAKE A D A T E WIT H URY

End your weekend in style with Tim Knowles Quartet as they arrive at The Globe armed with contemporary jazz. The sublime sounds of this talented bunch will enrich your soul as they serenade you with crisp folk tunes all night long! theglobenewcastle.bar

Seasonal stroll

COOL C ONTEMPORARY JAZZ

Jazz it up!

M

THE PARK K IN L A W

WIT H C OOL KIT

Round up your tribe and head over to Tyne Theatre & Opera House as the Circus Spectacular touches down in the city for one amazing night!

Featuring international circus acts, amazing magic and bundles of laugh-out-loud moments, Circus Spectacular is certain to have everyone laughing and cheering along in this fantastic variety show.

Don’t miss it! tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

T IGH N ALL

AY SUND AM

BIG NAM ES

LAR ACU PECT CIRCUS S

Shimmy on over to Cosmic Ballroom as Love Decade rolls in for a spectacular trance night!

Boasting a stellar line-up of regional DJs, there’s no way you won’t find yourself busting out the moves on the dancefloor all night long! Blow off some steam and trance the night away! facebook.com/cosmicballroom

Roll up, roll up!

Enjoy bold bites and great coffee at Carliol Square’s stunning coffee house, Flat Caps Coffee! Specialising in freshly ground coffee from around the globe and top-notch dishes, Flat Caps is sure to put a smile on your face ahead of a big day in NE1. flatcapscoffee.com

Located in the heart of Newcastle, head to Chaophraya this Saturday to experience some of the Toon’s finest Thai treats! Order a royal lamb Massaman and pair it with one of Chao’s stunning cocktails and you’re onto a winner! chaophraya.co.uk

THAI TREATS FIC RRI

TIME FOR SAUS AGE

P

SATURDAY

We doff our coffee cap!

Situated on High Bridge, Laneway & Co is the perfect place to grab a light bite in a bright and airy space. This independent coffee shop serves the highest quality coffee from the UK’s best roasters along with great value brekkie deals. There's no better way to start a busy Saturday exploring the city! instagram.com/lanewaycoffeeco

PM

INN

ER CIT Y BLUES

More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk // 21

AROUND THE CITY

Diaries

WAITRESS 8 - 12 MARCH

at the

ready

FROM LIVE MUSIC TO COMEDY AND THEATRE, IT'S TIME TO FILL THOSE DIARIES WITH THE FUN STUFF WE'VE GOT TO LOOK FORWARD TO AS WE HEAD INTO SPRING!

STORMZY 15 MARCH

Global grime god, Stormzy, is embarking on his national tour and he's announced a monumental show at the Arena! One of Britain's biggest stars, join the Croydon MC as he celebrates his epic second album, Heavy Is The Head, with a spectacular performance in NE1! utilitaarena.co.uk

BONGO’S BINGO: ST. PATRICK’S DAY SPECIAL 17 MARCH

Celebrate St Paddy’s Day with a party like no other as Bongo’s Bingo bring their travelling bingo ruckus to Boiler Shop for a special Paddy’s Day blowout! This time, Boiler Shop will be welcoming 90s boyband, 5ive, to the city as rave rounds, cheesy sing-alongs, daft dance-offs, sick prizes and a wild dose of bingo descend on the Toon for a raucous evening. These shows always sell out in record time, so don’t wait around if you want to Irish dance into the night! boilershop.net

KATHERINE RYAN - MISSUS 24 FEBRUARY

Yes! Star of Netflix smash hit series The Duchess, hilarious comedian and TV celeb, Katherine Ryan, has announced an exclusive show at O2 City Hall Newcastle! Catch her live as she chats about the trials and tribulations of marriage, and what it means to be a missus. academymusicgroup.com

22 // More listings at getintonewcastle.co.uk

Treat yourself to a slice of five-star musical pie as Chelsea Halfpenny stars in the hit musical comedy Waitress! Brought to life by a groundbreaking, female-led creative team, this warm, witty, wise and hilarious theatre extravaganza features a wonderful score from Grammy awardwinning Sara Bareilles and it’s been raking in the awards in London’s West End, and on Broadway. Dubbed a joyously life-affirming celebration of love and friendship, book now and get your tickets to this monumental piece of theatre. theatreroyal.co.uk

ED GAMBLE 26 FEBRUARY

After a sell-out national tour earlier this year, get ready to laugh the night away as Ed Gamble heads to Tyne Theatre & Opera House! A firm household favourite, Ed shot to superstardom with hilarious skits on BBC’s Live at The Apollo, laugh-out-loud jokes on Sky’s The Russell Howard Hour and side-splitting gags on Mock the Week. Gather the gang and settle in for a hilarious night with the man himself! tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

REGINALD D HUNTER: BOMBE SHUFFLEUR 27 MARCH

American comedy favourite, Reginald D Hunter, is swinging by The Stand for a one-night-only show in March! With a fan base spanning generations, the funny-man is sure to make the whole gang giggle as he shares new material with a North East audience. Back again for an acerbic take on climate change, unemployment and the pandemic, join the three-time Perrier Award-nominated comedian for an uproarious evening of unapologetic takes with his brand new show, Bombe Shuffleur. With TV appearances including Have I Got News For You, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and his hugely popular series, Reginald D Hunter’s Song Of The Border, he’s one of the hottest comedians on the circuit right now! thestand.co.uk

THE LONDON AFRICAN GOSPEL CHOIR PRESENT MARLEY 12 MARCH

Settle in for an evening of sparkling song and dance at Wylam Brewery this March, as The London African Gospel Choir returns to Tyneside to play Bob Marley’s iconic tracks and redemption tunes in full! Featuring a 17-member ensemble, this colourful, uplifting production of incredible musicians will be delivering Bob’s world-renowned music from start to finish, and we can't wait to hear the fun unfold! Make sure you add this stunning event to your calendars. wylambrewery.co.uk

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