Newcastle’s reputation as a theatrical and cultural hub has been given a boost following a visit of a leading British theatre impresario and operator this week.
Sir Howard Panter, who owns and operates 16 theaters across Europe was in Newcastle this week as part of a trip to scout new locations to host future productions from his company Trafalgar Entertainment.
Trafalgar Entertainment is responsible for producing such major theatre shows as Jersey Boys, The Rocky Horror Show, Jagged Little Pill and 42nd Street
Regarded as one of the most influential people in UK theatre, Sir Howard took time to visit the Civic Theatre and the heritage-listed Victoria Theatre, which is currently undergoing a $5 million restoration.
Having his interest piqued by many glowing reports about the city, Sir Howard said that he was “blown away” by what he experienced during his visit.
“"So many people have told me that I have to come to Newcastle. I was promised a mature, heritage city built on both the harbour and the coastline,” he said.
“Having now finally made my way here, I must say I’ve been blown away by what Newcastle has to offer.
Sir Howard went on to describe the city a “theatre heaven” adding that he was excited at the prospect of bringing productions to Newcastle in the near future.
"To have a theatre of the size and grandeur of the Civic Theatre next to a new five-star hotel with light rail access on its doorstep, and a plethora of fine dining options on offer at Honeysuckle, it's about as close to 'theatre heaven' as it gets,” he said.
““The Civic has that old world European feel to it that just adds to the sense of time travel that great theatre shows can take their audience on.
“I couldn’t be more keen to bring a Broadway show to Newcastle and hope we have some exciting news to share with the city in the next few months."
City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said discussions to bring Trafalgar’s first show to the Civic Theatre are well advanced.
"The reinvention of Newcastle as a cosmopolitan, thriving major events city has been known for some time to entertainment and producers throughout Australia,” Mr Bath said.
“The record-breaking local staging of Come From Away has grabbed the attention of international theatre producers such as Trafalgar, who recognise the burgeoning theatre demand that exists in Newcastle, and the Hunter.”