New chapter opens at Northern Stage

A Newcastle theatre has unveiled a new community space designed to inspire a love of reading while celebrating local creativity.

Northern Stage has launched Northern Page, a book-filled corner of the theatre that combines literature, art and community voices. 

The project has been supported by the National Literacy Trust and led by in-house literacy champion Yun Perez, transforming an underused part of the venue into a welcoming space for all ages.

Sustainability is at the heart of the initiative, with furniture and set pieces from previous Northern Stage productions repurposed to create the space. 

Rotational displays will showcase work from across the region, including wood-art sculptures produced with Tyne Housing.

Visitors will also encounter a bold new installation from North East street artist Mul, whose signature heart-led motifs brighten the walls and act as a colourful marker for the new space.

Yun, the communities manager at Northern Stage and project lead for Northern Page, said: “Northern Stage is home to stories that help us see and shape the world differently. 

“With Northern Page, we’re opening our doors even wider by offering a beautiful, community-led space where anyone can pause, read and connect. 

“Mul’s installation transforms a busy corridor into a joyful invitation to belong, while our partnership with the National Literacy Trust ensures we’re reaching people who stand to benefit most from the power of reading.”

Mul added: “I loved creating a piece that is hopefully going to inspire people and make them feel comfortable within the space. 

“The artwork is bold, warm and unmistakably North East. 

“If the colours and shapes stop someone for ten minutes and they open a book, the artwork has done its job.” 

Northern Page officially opened yesterday (October 1) to coincide with Black History Month, with themed book selections tied to Northern Stage’s autumn programme. 

Looking ahead, the area will host seasonal displays and community exhibitions, with book choices linked to cultural moments such as Pride Month and Refugee Week, creating an evolving hub for literacy and creativity.

Northern Page is on Level 0 at Northern Stage, opposite the Gillian Dickinson Gallery and near Stage 3. The space is step-free and family-friendly, with easy access to nearby facilities.

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