After nearly 15 years building a reputation as Newcastle’s number one home for fringe theatre, Alphabetti is about to take the next step regarding its future development, in preparation for a relaunch next year. The theatre’s management are therefore inviting members of the general public to the first of what will be numerous feedback, brainstorming and idea gatherings.
Storyboard
‘Storyboard’ on Wednesday 15 April will be an evening dedicated to collecting stories and ideas, exploring the past, present and future of Alphabetti Theatre. The Betti team want to hear what their audience thinks should change or stay the same, their favourite memories and so on. They are particularly keen to find out what various stakeholders think they should do in the future. This exercise comes at a time when it is harder and harder for small-scale alternative theatre venues to stay open due to ongoing funding challenges.
June 2026 will mark Edward Cole’s second year as Alphabetti Theatre’s Artistic Director. After taking over the reins from founder Ali Pritchard, Cole suggested taking the organisation through a period of transition. In a statement posted on the venue’s website he said:
“Since arriving at Alphabetti 18 months ago I’ve been guiding the organisation through a period of thoughtful transition, working alongside our staff and trustees to consider the best path forward for Betti, and more importantly, for the artists who rely on us.
It has always been my ambition to reimagine and revitalise what fringe theatre can be, and for Alphabetti that will mean a renewed and direct focus on opportunities for artists, genuine creative nurturing and dedicated idea development.”
From June onwards, Alphabetti will therefore temporarily reshape its programme to prioritise artist development, regional voices and
experimentation, deepening its support for freelance creatives across the North East. It is envisaged that this transitional period will build towards a full relaunch in early 2027, inspired by the North East’s creative community.
Over the years Alphabetti has cemented its role as an important component in our regional cultural eco-system, supporting early-career and established artists to develop and present new work whilst also making theatre accessible to audiences and creatives regardless of financial background.
In 2023, the theatre was named ‘Best Cultural Venue’ at the North East Culture Awards, and ‘Fringe Theatre of the Year’ at The Stage Awards, becoming the first venue outside London to receive the national fringe award. It truly is a precious gem that the north east community should treasure and support.
Doors open for ‘Storyboard’ on Wednesday at 6pm and you can drop in anytime throughout the evening. There will be a short talk from Artistic Director, Ed Cole, at 7pm and participants will then be free to roam different activity stations around the bar and stage areas, however they please. Apparently, there will be lots of post-it notes, stickers, marker pens and an intriguing ‘phone booth’, with staff on hand for anyone who needs help to participate.
Meanwhile, you can still book for a variety of upcoming shows at the venue, including a new play by local writer Sam Macgregor called ‘Hold the Line’ which untangles the story on both sides of an NHS 111 phone line, and ‘Post Traumatic Slay Disorder’ by Offie-nominated local performer and writer Lois-Amber Tool. There’s also a new a monthly play reading group, Reading Room, in collaboration with Live Theatre. More programme information can be found on the website.
Tickets for ‘Storyboard’ are free but are limited so booking is essential therefore get your skates on!
