be primarily used for rehearsals and as a potential cabaret space. It too will be available for outside hire. Progressive Players The theatre is home to the Progressive Players Ltd. (founded in 1920) who produce ten plays per year. The roots of the Progressives were in the Gateshead branch of the Independent Labour Party, but the group is now non-political. At a meeting of the British Drama League in the twenties, the Progressives' representative handed over to George Bernard Shaw royalties of seven shillings and fourpence, possibly on the takings of Pygmalion which had raked in the grand sum of £16.00. A short time later, the Progressives followed Shaw's advice to turn themselves into a company. The group and the Theatre are still going strong, thanks in part to the generosity of Gateshead Metropolitan Borough Council, Northern Arts and the National Lottery Commission, but mainly to the continued efforts of the members (volunteers) and the support of their loyal audiences. In 2020, the group celebrated their Centenary, although physical celebrations were put on hold due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. After a nineteen-month halt in productions, the first performance back will be "Lockdown in Little Grimley" by David Tristram, in October 2021. In March 2021, the Progressive Players entered the Durham and Sunderland One Act Festival, with two performances. Owing to the ongoing pandemic, all performances were submitted via Zoom, and watched online. The Signalman (by Charles Dickens and adapted by Matthew Harper) was successful in winning the first round and make it though the semi final of the All England Theatre Festival, held in Saltburn. From here, the Progressive Players won this heat and performed in the final, in Bridlington. References External links Official website Asap Live Gateshead council Progressive Players Diamond Jubilee booklet, 1980. Theatres in Tyne and Wear Theatre companies in England Buildings and structures in Gateshead