Royal opening for Stockton's newly restored Globe

Stockton's newly restored Globe was given its official opening by His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester, today (September 28).

During his visit His Royal Highness was treated to a tour of the Grade II-listed Art Deco building, which has been lovingly restored to its former splendour.

The tour included a stunning sound and light show and took in the iconic venue's numerous heritage features.

His Royal Highness also met representatives from the Globe's operators Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), contractor Willmott Dixon, and volunteers involved in the project.

He then performed the Globe's official opening by unveiling a commemorative plaque in the foyer, where he was joined by invited guests.

He was accompanied throughout by the Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees, Councillor Kevin Faulks.

The Mayor said: "It was an absolute privilege to welcome His Royal Highness to the Globe and show him this wonderful venue so steeped in local history. The famous Globe is very much a part of the community and holds a special place in people's hearts, which all makes today's opening a very special occasion indeed.

"It's great to have it back.

"So much hard work has gone into the Globe's restoration and today was also an opportunity to thank all our partners, including The National Lottery Heritage Fund and ATG, and the many staff, colleagues and volunteers who have played their part in restoring this beautiful building and bringing it back to life.

"ATG have put together a superb line-up of acts and shows - the Autumn programme starts tomorrow night - and I'm looking forward to watching it take off."

Jo Ager, General Manager at Stockton Globe, added: "It was such an honour to extend a warm welcome to His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester at our wonderful venue. The opening has been such a long time coming and this visit was such a fitting start to the, very exciting, next chapter."

The restoration of the Globe, which was built in 1935, was funded by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and a £4.5million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund's Heritage Enterprise scheme, as well as a £774,000 grant from the Capital Kickstart Fund, part of the Government's £1.57billion Culture Recovery Fund.

To find out more about the Globe visit Stockton Globe's website (opens new window).