Alphabetti Theatre was formed by Ali Pritchard back in 2012, originally starting up in a space above the Dog & Parrot before moving to its present home, where it seats up to 80 people.
Since the Theatre’s inception they have driven the ethos that the arts and theatre should be for everyone, not just those who can afford it, along with it’s eclectic and individual programming style and it’s focus on developing new talent in the North East, this is a theatre that we must treasure and appreciate- whilst we still can.
43% of their performances run on a ‘pay what you feel’ policy in a bid to make the arts accessible and remove any financial barriers. You can either pop some cash over the counter at the end of the performance or pre-pay what you feel by card. It’s entirely up to you what you pay.
The Theatre also produces over 300 new shows every year. Thus offering a whole host of opportunities in writing and directing for up and coming artists in the North East. This also makes it a hub for local artists and encourages them to write, direct and produce work. Rising stars such as Rebecca Glendenning, Tamsin Rees and Olivia Hannah have all broken boundaries and began their careers at the performance space.
Furthermore, the theatre supports the Fringe Scene here in the north east. This ensures that the ecology of the performing arts grows, thrives and prospers in our region that is so often overlooked and not invested in.
Rising stars such as Rebecca Glendenning, Tamsin Rees and Olivia Hannah have all broken boundaries and began their careers at the performance space.
Alphabetti also goes beyond the basics when it comes to programming. They offer an eclectic, unique and bohemian range, from Karaoke-Disco nights to new plays, stand-up comedy shows and monthly writing groups. Either way you will find something thought-provoking and immensely fascinating at the theatre that is just for you.
The intimacy of Alphabetti also makes it an accommodating and unique theatre viewing experience. You feel so close to the action unfolding on stage, you see every facial expression, body movement, every nuance of the performance you get to see without straining your eyes- something not common at many larger venues.
So there we have it, a summary from me of why we need Alphabetti Theatre. It’s eclectic programming, focus on honing local talent and the fringe scene here in Newcastle, intimacy and its determination to remove all financial barriers from the theatre to make it accessible for all, make this place an absolute necessity in the North East. Don’t just take my word for it, visit the wonderful place for yourself. Find more details here on their website: https://www.alphabettitheatre.co.uk
