Over four years, working in collaboration with the company,we have radically deconstructed and reformed the former Newcastle Playhouse to create the new Northern Stage. This venue has established a European centre for the performing arts - a home for international theatre in Newcastle.At the heart of this innovative performance venue is a series of three interconnected and complementary performance spaces:- Stage 1 is a 500-seat main house- Stage 2 is a 200-seat studio- Stage 3 is an informal venue - part foyer, part performance spaceStage 1 and Stage 2 can be interlinked to create a single cavernous “empty space” - a factory-like industrial theatre that opens up epic scenic and directorial opportunities.The new building enables Northern Stage to explore new work while increasing opportunities for collaboration and participation. In addition to the auditorium, new foyers, production and performance support areas, and offices for the company have been designed.Above the main brick facade is “Escapology” by artist Cath Campbell; a collaborative art installation project involving Arts Team and Northern Stage.