An historic theatre that has served the North Tyneside and wider community since the 1920’s was officially opened by British royalty on Friday 11^th December by Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex.  She called in to officially open the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay, sponsored by the Evening Chronicle, during a two-day visit to the borough

The venue recently underwent a £8.5 million refit, funded by North Tyneside Council, with the support of the European Regional Development Fund. It continues to be owned by the council and is managed on their behalf by SMG Europe who have secured a 15 year contract, and who locally own and manage Newcastle's 11,000+ seater Metro Radio Arena and 1,100 seater The Journal Tyne Theatre.

SMG Europe operates some of the most prestigious venues in Europe including the MEN Arena in Manchester, the busiest concert venue in the Europe and the Konig-Pilsner Arena in Oberhausen, Germany, as well as The Bridgewater Hall Manchester and Odyssey Arena Belfast; this level of expertise together with their tremendous local knowledge and resources will bring massive benefits to the Playhouse, providing a fresh and professional approach to the project.

SMG have confirmed that the successful balance between commercial events and local user groups will be essential to the future success of the Whitley Bay Playhouse Theatre.

During the visit The Countess met those involved in the project, and representatives from management company SMG including the SMG Theatre Director Ailsa Oliver

The Countess was invited on stage to unveil a plaque, which marked the venue’s official opening.