In 2010, the announcement came that the decaying Globe Theatre would be restored to its former glory and reopen as a venue for music, theatre and comedy. Restoration work on the Grade II listed building took several years but was finally completed in 2021. The theatre now boasts a 3000 capacity auditorium with removable stalls seating, a full orchestra pit and the latest in lighting and sound equipment. The original 1935 art deco features have been carefully restored, with the walls of the auditorium striking shades of green and yellow.
In September 2021 Stockton Globe reopened its doors, with McFly the first act to perform in the newly restored theatre. “It’s an absolute honour to be the first band to play at the newly opened Globe. We’re so excited to be asked.” the band told the Northern Echo. The General Manager of the Globe, Jo Ager, described the reopening as “an incredible moment for Stockton-on-Tees”. Audience members were also enthusiastic about the restoration, with Anne Thompson saying “It’s really beautiful. They’ve done a lovely job.”
Stockton Globe Theatre is now operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), which runs many leading theatres including Sunderland Empire Theatre and it is the largest capacity venue between Newcastle and Leeds. With several big-name acts and shows lined up to appear in the coming months, including Paloma Faith, Diversity and the west-end show We Will Rock You, this historic art deco theatre looks set to continue entertaining the region for many more years to come.
