Pint Of Science Festival (19th-21st May)
2025-05-19 19:00 - 2025-05-21 21:30 (Europe/London) | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Pint of Science is a grassroots non-profit organisation that has grown astronomically over the few years since two people decided to share their research in the pub. Although our mission has expanded, our core values remain the same: to provide a space for researchers and members of the public alike to come together, be curious, and chat about research in a relaxed environment outside of mysterious laboratories or daunting dark lecture theatres.
Monday 19th May
Decarbonise and Conquer
From our city streets to Hadrian’s Wall, science is shaping the future of our local area. Join the conversation with the experts about how they are decarbonising energy, lowering heating costs, and preserving historical landscapes. See how the environmental tech used by scientists benefits you – improving energy efficiency, saving you money and helping local businesses thrive in a sustainable way.
Doors 7:00pm
Event 7:30pm to 9:30pm
TICKETS
Tuesday 20th May
From Pills to Policies: The power of patient data
We explore the hidden challenges behind the frontline of healthcare. Discover why accurate tracking of medication use is more complex than it seems and how patient data fuels life-saving research. Join the debate on improving health while protecting privacy – because what we know (and what we don’t) can change lives!
Doors 7:00pm
Event 7:30pm to 9:30pm
TICKETS
Wednesday 21st May
The Sounds of Science
This Pint of Science will take a sonic journey through science with talks and performances that represent a broad range of fleeting physical and biological phenomena through sound — from distant galaxies, to brain signals and Earth cycles. Join us as we explore the wonderfully complex, intangible world around us through the sense of sound.
Doors 7:00pm
Event 7:30pm to 9:30pm
TICKETS
For information on all other Newcastle events, look here.

456 Live Present…Brigitte Calls Me Baby
2025-06-02 19:30 - 23:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Brigitte Calls Me Baby crafts a sound that’s equal parts elegant time warp and modern-day reckoning—fusing mid-century pop’s lavish romanticism with the raw energy of post-punk and early-millennium indie-rock. Fronted by Wes Leavins, whose hypnotic croon channels Roy Orbison, The Cars, and Radiohead, the Chicago band delivers a rare mix of sophistication and sincerity. After a breakout SXSW set and a deal with ATO Records, they are currently touring with Morrissey and their highly anticipated debut album, The Future Is Our Way Out, is out now – produced by Grammy-winning Dave Cobb.
Tickets on sale from Friday 28th March 2025.
Age Restrictions: 16+ (under 18s to be accompanied by an adult)

Whisky tasting: An evening with…Graeme Mackay
2025-06-06 19:00 - 21:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join us for this in-person whisky tasting event on Friday 6th June. The evening will be full of insights and enlightenment on all things Ardnamurchan Distillery & Adelphi Independent Bottlers Sales Executive. Plus – their Blending Team member, Graeme Mackay, will be bringing liquid and showcasing what they are all about.
We will be tasting the following SEVEN drams…
Maclean’s Nose
Ardnamurchan (AD) Single Malt
AD Sherry Cask
AD Madeira Cask
AD Mezcal Cask
AD Distillery Exclusive – 2017 Unpeated Oloroso Sherry Butt
Adelphi High Coast 2013 – Peated Swedish curveball!
Graeme Mackay is the Sales Executive for Ardnamurchan Distillery and Adelphi Independent Bottlers. Graeme covers sales in much of the UK, as well as covering export markets in the Nordics, Central Europe, and parts of Asia. He helps with recipe creation as part of the Blending team, too.
Time: 7pm
Location: 5|Quarter Bar, The Common Room.

The Frank and Walters (Full Band) + support
2025-06-07 19:30 - 22:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Once upon a not-so-very-long-ago three friends from Cork decided to form a musical band. Their collective love of melody and God-given gift for a hook saw riches and acclaim bestowed on them from far and wide and they lived happily ever after safe in the knowledge that hard work, wonderful songs and honest talent would always win the day… It’s been a long, strange, beautiful journey for The Franks, who in the 90s flirted with the charts on this continent and others, but no-one can deny they made their mark. Hell, there’s even an all-girl Japanese Franks tribute band! Sing along to After All, Fashion Crisis Hits New York, This Is Not A Song and Happy Busman.
The Frank and Walters will be supported by Jody and the Jerms:
Jody and the Jerms create endearing jangle-pop songs that are both evocative and relatable. Formed in Oxford in 2019, they have been writing, recording and performing their blend of melodic and uplifting indie/alt rock ever since, recording three albums to date and enjoying national airtime on Radio X (UK), Absolute Radio (UK), Sirius XM (USA) and RTVE (Spain), as well as BBC 6 Music, BBC Introducing, BBC Wales and BBC Ulster. “It’s almost like power pop, a bit Bangles… or jangle pop. Lovely” – Radcliffe & Maconie, BBC 6 Music “Evanescent jangle of endearing pop hymns… A celestial glow that lingers at the nexus of The Sundays, Belle and Sebastian, Throwing Muses, and the effervescent efflorescence of The Darling Buds.” – Post-Punk.com
Saturday 7th June, 2025
Doors Open: 7:30pm
First act starts: 8:00pm

Candlelight: Hans Zimmer's Best Works
2025-06-14 21:00 - 22:15 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations never before used for this purpose in Newcastle upon Tyne. This month, the music of Hans Zimmer will be performed Wood Hall at The Common Room, under the gentle glow of candlelight.
General Info
📍 Venue: The Common Room – Wood Hall
⏳ Duration: 65 minutes (doors open at 8:15pm, 45 mins prior to the start time, and late entry is not permitted)
👤 Age requirement: 8+. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult
♿ Accessibility: this venue is wheelchair accessible
☀️ Please note that natural light levels during earlier shows may vary and the candlelight may appear dimmer.
Programme:
Pirates of the Caribbean – He’s a Pirate
Pirates of the Caribbean – Suite
Gladiator – Now We Are Free
The Last Samurai – Red Warrior
Dune – Medley
Top Gun – Maverick
Sherlock Holmes – Discombobulate
The Lion King – Can You Feel the Love Tonight
Batman Medley
Wonder Woman
Dunkirk – Supermarine
Inception Medley – Dream Is Collapsing
Inception Medley – Time
Performers:
Aurora String Quartet

Gloria Love's Pride Extravaganza
2025-06-27 18:30 - 21:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Welcome to Gloria Love’s Pride Extravaganza! Join us at The Common Room for a fabulous celebration of love and diversity. Get ready for a night filled with music, dancing, and unforgettable performances from the amazong Gloria Love accompanied by the Side By Side Arts Band and Choir. Don’t miss out on this incredible event where we can all come together to celebrate Pride in style!
Doors: 6:30pm
Act 1 – 19:00 – 19:45
Intermission – 19:45 – 20:05
Act 2 – 20:05 – 21:00

Whisky Tasting: An evening with...Angus MacRaild
2025-07-03 19:00 - 21:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join us on Thursday 3rd July for an evening hosted by Lee Connor and special guest, the one and only Angus MacRaild – the man in charge of bottling stuff at Decadent Drinks, one third of the propulsion behind Kythe Distillery and an occasional scribbler of words.
A general, all-purpose man about the whisky town with a penchant for older style, distillate-driven spirits and a love of fine bevvy that stretches into wines, brews and all manner of other spirits, potions and drinks types. When he isn’t doing work stuff, he’s perpetually learning how to be a husband and a dad.
In Lee’s opinion, Angus is one of the finest minds in whisky today. Check out this line up…
Vatted Grain 1972 Decadent Drams
Glen Moray 31yo Whiskyland 17
Old Orkney 25yo
Highland Park 20yo Whiskyland 16
Glen Toon (Glen Scotia) 8yo Decadent Drams
Ord 2017 8yo Equinox & Solstice Summer 2025
And maybe another special treat!
Date:
03.07.2025
Time – 7:00pm
Location:
5 Quarter Bar
The Common Room

Vicky Middleton: Awakened Breath
2025-07-05 10:15 - 12:00
Immerse yourself in the rhythm of Conscious Connected Breathwork, the energy of calming breath techniques and the vibrations of meditation. Designed to guide you to release physical, mental and emotional tension and to support nervous system balancing creating a deeply transformative experience.
Guided by Vicky, and within the power of community this is a space to AWAKEN the energy of LOVE & the healing potential of your breath to open pathways of possibilities.
Please note that it is NOT recommended that you do Conscious Connected Breathwork if you have schizophrenia, bipolar, history of psychosis, epilepsy, heart conditions, extremes of blood pressure, glaucoma or detached retina, history of strokes or aneurysm, recent abdominal surgery and delicate pregnancy. if this is you.an alternative breathing technique will be offered which can still be extremely powerful.
Vicky is trained as a Breathwork Practitioner approved by the Global Professional Breathwork Alliance with over 1000hrs accredited training.

World Premiere: Harper Thursday and the Magic Lantern™
2025-07-31 19:00 - 21:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Harper Thursday and the Magic Lantern™ is a celebration of imagination, storytelling, and the enduring power of books. This new family musical invites audiences to join Harper as she ventures using a magical antique projector lantern into the book worlds of Peter Pan, Oz, Wonderland, and beyond… Inspired by Craig’s love of classic Disney and Studio Ghibli movies.
The Wood Hall at The Common Room is the perfect setting for this world premiere, as promises an immersive experience full of music, wonder, and magic for all ages.
Stepping into the spotlight as the imaginative young hero Harper Thursday is rising star Corinne Monroe, making her UK theatrical debut in what promises to be a career-defining role.
Accomplished screen and stage actor Aiden Nord (Line of Duty, Vera, War Horse) takes on the pivotal role of Charlie, the loveable ghost of a Victorian chimney sweep whose presence underpins Harper’s extraordinary journey.
Joining them is celebrated North East singer-songwriter Jen Stevens, cast as the mystical and commanding Baba Yaga. Known for her soaring vocals, emotional depth, and captivating stage presence, Stevens brings powerful authenticity to the role of Harper’s enigmatic guide.
Beloved regional theatre figure Jamie Brown (Hadaway Harry, The Machine Gunners, The Fighting Bradfords) plays dual roles: the swashbuckling Captain James Hook and the lovable Scarecrow from the world of Oz. Brown’s versatility and magnetic charm make him a natural fit for these iconic characters.
Acclaimed musical theatre performer Markus Stanley (formerly Markus Sayers Franklyn), who played the title role in Shrek the Musical at The Tyne Theatre, Newcastle, and the dazzling Lumière in North East production of Beauty and the Beast, brings his signature flair to two contrasting roles: the frantic White Rabbit and the tender-hearted Piglet. Markus is also known for his standout performances as Princeton in three separate productions of Avenue Q.
Directed by Acclaimed Theatre Visionary, Jake Murray

The Primitives + support
2025-08-01 19:30 - 23:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Indie pop royalty The Primitives bring their jangly guitars, infectious melodies, and timeless energy to The Common Room this August.
Bursting out of the UK indie scene in the mid-80s, The Primitives made their mark with shimmering pop gems like Crash – a hit that took them from underground favourites to international chart success. Their debut album Lovely became a cult classic, blending 60s girl group harmonies with punk attitude and a hook-laden sound that still resonates today.
After a hiatus in the 90s, the band reformed in 2009 and have been winning over old fans and new ever since, with a string of releases and celebrated live performances across the UK, Europe, the US and Japan.
Still fronted by the iconic Tracy Tracy alongside original members Paul Court and Tig Williams, The Primitives are as sharp, melodic, and vital as ever.
Don’t miss this chance to see one of indie pop’s most beloved acts in a unique setting at The Common Room.
With support from The Cords (@the.cords_band via Instagram)
Doors Open: 7:30pm
Starts: 8:00pm

Stay & Play (Multi day event)
2025-08-11 - 2025-08-22 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Stay & play at The Common Room (see days below).
If you’re looking for a calm and creative space to relax with the kids this summer, Stay & Play in our cosy Map Room is the perfect place to spend some time.
We’ll have:
• Colouring and Lego for hands on fun
• Cartoons in the background
Packed lunches welcome!
And grown ups, we’ve got you covered too, with coffee and cakes available from our café bar, a great way to support the space while the kids play.
Location: Map Room
DATES:
11th, 12th, 15th August
18th to 22nd August
Quiet days on 12th and 21st August.
Free entry – just drop in from 10am till 4pm

Ryton Singers...by candlelight [SOLD OUT]
2025-08-16 18:30 - 21:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Step into an evening of pure enchantment as the Ryton Singers fill The Common Room with beautiful harmonies, all set against the warm glow of candlelight.
This special summer concert promises an intimate, atmospheric performance from one of the region’s much-loved choirs. Whether you’re a dedicated choral music fan or simply looking for a unique night out in a stunning historic setting, this is an experience not to miss.
Bring friends, family or someone special and let the Ryton Singers transport you with song in the heart of Newcastle.

Bounce & Play (Multi day event)
2025-08-18 10:00 - 2025-08-20 16:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Bounce & Play at The Common Room (PAY ON THE DOOR)
Room Location: Wood Hall
Open daily from 10am-4pm, 18th – 20th august
1.5 hour sessions, £3 per child
Come and join us for fun and games in the beautiful Wood Hall. This stunning space – with a high glass ceiling and colourful stained-glass windows- will be packed with:
– Bouncy castle
– Giant snakes and ladders and ball pool
– Tuck shop for tasty pit stops
There is plenty for the grownups too:
Enjoy our heritage building, grab a coffee and snack and soak in the surroundings
5|Quarter café bar serving paninis, cakes, hot and cold refreshments

Wallace & Gromit Films (Multi day event)
2025-08-22 11:00 - 2025-08-28 16:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Pay as you feel event (pay on the door). See dates below.
As part of our summer family events we are screening a Wallace & Gromit triple feature.
Room Location: Lecture Theatre
Dates: 22nd, 26th & 28th august.
Films:
🎬 A Grand Day Out
🎬 The Wrong Trousers
🎬 A Close Shave
Screenings 11am & 1:30pm daily
As this is a pay as you feel event, you can support the work we do by purchasing refreshments in the café bar.

Hunt A Duck
2025-08-27 10:00 - 16:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
We’re adding some feathered fun to our next General Admission Day, get ready to go on a duck hunt!
We’ve hidden 100 mini ducks around the building, and if you find one, you get to keep it. No sign ups, no rules, just pop in!
Fuel your hunt with delicious drinks & snacks across the day in our 5|Quauarter café – why not add a pastry to your coffee for just 75p, or enjoy a panini, made locally just for us by the Camera Shop.
There’s also a great selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks available – plus, if you find a duck you get 10% off your café purchase!

Whisky Tasting: an evening with...Alasdair Day
2025-08-29 19:00 - 21:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Alasdair can trace his family connections to the whisky industry as far back as 1820. But today he’s known as the Master Distiller and driving force behind Raasay Distillery, which was completed in 2017. Since its first release in 2020 Raasay has gone from strength to strength.
Alasdair will be joining us on Friday 29th August with some of his favourite and most recent releases. He may even have an update on a new distillery he’s planning in a certain peninsular on the South West of Scotland!
Dram list to follow soon!
Held at:
5 Quarter Bar, Neville Hall
The Common Room of the Great North Ltd, Newcastle upon Tyne , NE1 1SE

Celebrating Tyneside's Railway Heritage: a book launch
2025-09-04 13:30 - 14:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join local author Les Turnbull for the launch of his latest publication “Celebrating Tyneside’s Railway Heritage”.
This booklet takes you on a walk around Central Station discovering the hidden heritage of early railways beneath your feet. Combined with Les’s research and memories, this makes a fascinating journey for both the railway enthusiast and people coming to the history of the railways for the first time.
September 2025 is being celebrated as the 200th anniversary of the modern railway thanks to the Stockton and Darlington line, but come and hear about the earlier systems on Tyneside and how they led to the creation of the modern railway.
The booklet will be available to buy for £6 – why not follow up the event with a walk around the route?

Edgar Summertyme Jones + Support
2025-09-06 19:00 - 23:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Wandering Oak presents…
Liverpool legend Edgar Jones made his mark in the early ‘90s fronting cult ‘60s revivalists The Stairs, before becoming a sought-after collaborator for the likes of Paul Weller, St Etienne, and more. As a solo artist, Edgar has dipped into everything from reverb-soaked garage rock and swaggering blues to psychedelic soul and swinging jazz, always delivered with effortless style and unmistakable vocals.
Whether leading bands like Free Peace or releasing music under his Summertyme moniker, Edgar has built a devoted following for his genre-hopping songwriting and vintage sound that feels both timeless and fresh. From underground classics like Mexican R’n’B to acclaimed solo albums and rarities, he remains one of the UK’s best-kept musical treasures.
This is a must-see show for fans of The Stairs, Captain Beefheart, The La’s, The Coral, and anyone who loves retro grooves and sharp songwriting. Catch this true cult hero live in the unique setting of The Common Room, with support from local singer-songwriter John Nellist.

The Evolution of Mining: Securing a Sustainable Future
2025-09-10 09:30 - 18:15 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
This one-day conference brings together professionals from the mining, water, and environmental sectors to explore how mining must adapt to support a greener, more sustainable future.
The programme will cover topics ranging from managing water in abandoned mines to recovering valuable materials from waste streams — all with a strong focus on sustainability and climate goals.
We are delighted to welcome Hugh Potter from the Environment Agency as our keynote speaker, sharing insights from his work on historic metal mine sites and their impact on the environment.
With contributions from leading voices in geology, hydrogeology, and engineering, this event promises to be a vital platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration across industries.
Join us in person at The Common Room or Burlington House in London, or connect online to be part of this important conversation.

NEIMME: William Thomas and a New Appraisal of the S&D Railway - book launch
2025-09-11 13:30 - 15:30
An event from the North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers:
William Thomas, a founder member of the Lit and Phil and the Society of Antiquaries, has largely been erased from the historical record despite his importance as a revolutionary thinker who has more claim to be the father of the modern railway than George Stephenson and Edward Pease combined. He was a very active member of both societies and one of his lectures is particularly apposite this year for it brings into question the importance of the Stockton and Darlington Railway and the narrative of railway history established by the North Eastern Railway at the Jubilee celebrations of 1875. At a lecture on 11th February 1800, William Thomas provided the blueprint for a revolutionary railway system, an inter-city, multi-purpose railway, which carried passengers. This would form the model for the railway revolution later in the nineteenth century. This system was very different from the numerous colliery railways such as the Stockton and Darlington.
The book comprises four essays all linked through the person of William Thomas:

Elizabeth Montagu – ‘Countess of the Coalpits’
William Thomas and his World
George Stephenson’s Stockton and Darlington Railway
James Stephen Jeans’ Masterpiece of Propaganda

The perverse narrative of railway history established by Henry Pease in 1875 continues to distort the historical record: hence the idea of Railway 200 which is taking place today. This book aims to provide a new narrative which seeks to give more weight to the era of the waggonways and the ideas of William Thomas. It argues that the opening of the S&D in 1825 had no international significance: it was simply another colliery railway serving five small landsale collieries in the Auckland area. The important railways served the great seasale collieries of Tyneside and Wearside.
Copies will be available for sale of this new hardback publication, price £20 (cash or card accepted) at the launch and there will be a signing session afterwards.

James Yorkston & Nina Persson
2025-09-17 20:00 - 22:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join us for a remarkable evening as acclaimed Scottish singer-songwriter James Yorkston brings his deeply moving folk to Newcastle, joined by Nina Persson of The Cardigans for a special duo performance at The Common Room.
This show coincides with the release of Yorkston’s highly anticipated new album, Songs for Nina & Johanna, which highlights his collaborations with Nina Persson and Johanna Söderberg of First Aid Kit—both of whom lend their voices to this intimate, emotionally rich collection.
Expect heartfelt storytelling, gentle melodies, and a night woven with reflection and warmth—live, acoustically charged, and beautifully crafted.
This is a truly special evening not to be missed: a rare chance to see James Yorkston and Nina Persson perform together in an intimate duo format, showcasing their lyrical interplay and unmistakable chemistry. The performance will feature songs from Yorkston’s brand-new album Songs for Nina & Johanna, offering audiences the opportunity to experience this deeply moving collection live for the first time. All set within the historic surroundings of The Common Room, the evening promises to be a uniquely immersive and unforgettable musical experience.

Newcastle trams & the Tramways Committee before 1914
2025-09-18 18:00 - 20:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Free talk…
In June 1913, members of Newcastle City Council met to celebrate the opening of the extension of the tram network across Benton Bank and into Heaton. Their meeting was filmed by local film-makers Henderson’s.
This talk will draw on evidence from this film, as well as from records held in The Tyne and Wear Archives Service and The Common Room, to tell the story of the city’s tramways before 1914, and the city councillors who were responsible for them.
Lawrence Napper is a senior lecturer in Film Studies at Kings College. Film excepts will be accompanied by Radio 4’s Neil Brand.
This event is part of The Common Room’s Heritage Open Days offer – why not check out the other fantastic free events available across the city at https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/

Elevate Symposium 2025 [EVENT CANCELLED]
2025-10-04 12:30 - 17:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
UPDATE: Unfortunately, this year’s Elevate Symposium event has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
Now in its sixth edition, Elevate Symposium returns to its home at The Common Room in Newcastle, following last year’s inspiring gathering at Tales Without Borders in Blyth. Over the years, this event has grown into a trusted platform where people from all walks of life come to reflect, connect and leave energised to create positive change.
This year’s edition, turns the spotlight onto something deeply personal yet frequently misunderstood: Afro hair.
By focusing on Afro hair, its heritage, its beauty and the call to ban hair discrimination, we honour Black history and Black futures alike. We believe that how people choose to wear their hair should never be a barrier to opportunity, dignity or self-expression. This is why we are backing this pettitn to ban hair discrimination in the North East of Engalnd and Cumbria; petition
Guests will step into a vibrant community exhibition showcasing portraits and reflections from local people proudly wearing their natural styles and braids.
What to Expect
– Throughout the day, free hair braiding stations will be open for adults and children alike – transforming care and creativity into moments of shared celebration and connection.
– Family-friendly environment – children are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult.
– A chance to connect, network, and celebrate the richness of African heritage.
Ticket Information
This year’s event is once again Pay As You Can to attend, with ticket numbers capped for safety and experience. Don’t wait, once tickets are gone, they’re gone!
Secure your tickets now and join us in commemorating Black history Month in a way that’s not just an event; it’s an immersive gathering of unity, diversity, and the vibrant spirit of Black people.
Don’t miss the chance to be a part of Elevate Symposium – embodies our commitment to intersectionality and social justice, values that shape all our work. We believe inclusion happens when we gather, learn from one another and stand united for the dignity of everyone in our communities.
We express our heartfelt gratitude to the The Common Room and Tribe Tesi for their invaluable partnership in organising this event.

Art of the Album Day
2025-10-15 10:00 - 17:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
This free, full-day event focuses on The Art of the Album, offering insight into the creative and practical steps behind making and releasing a record. Through panels, in-conversations, and masterclasses, participants will explore key areas including songwriting, production, A&R, recording, mixing and mastering, artwork, release strategy, distribution, marketing, and brand campaigns. The day is designed for aspiring artists, producers, and industry professionals looking to deepen their understanding of the album-making process from start to finish.
Hosted by Generator

Warrington-Runcorn New Town Development Plan [SOLD OUT]
2025-10-18 19:00 - 23:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Gordon Chapman-Fox’s Warrington-Runcorn New Town Development Plan fuses bold visuals with a striking retro-futuristic sound, evoking the growth of a northern English community from the 1970s to the ’80s. Across five albums and an EP, his immersive synth-driven music—filled with shimmering arpeggios and euphoric leads—has earned widespread acclaim.
Praised by BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music, and Electronic Sound, WRNTDP has charted in the UK and landed on multiple end-of-year lists. 2023’s The Nation’s Most Central Location was named Electronic Sound’s Album of the Year and secured a top spot at Rough Trade (#13), leading to festival appearances at End of the Road (2022, 2024).
Expect a spellbinding live show of bristling synth lines, deep bass swells, and hypnotic rhythms—perfect for soundtracking the future or the end of the old world. For fans of Belbury Poly, Vangelis, Craven Faults, and Orbury Common.
Doors 7:00pm
Performance room: Wood Hall
This is a 16+ (accompanied) / 18+ event
THIS EVENT HAS NOW SOLD OUT

Whisky Tasting: An evening with...Oliver Chilton
2025-10-24 07:00 - 21:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join Lee Connor and special guest Oliver Chilton at The Common Room for this in-person whisky tasting event.
From the shop floor to Head Blender, Ollie has straddled the whisky industry like a colossus.
Starting as a sales adviser in York Whisky Shop his drive and determination has propelled him through the echelons of Elixir Distillers where he has established brands such as Elements of Islay, Port Askaig and Single Malt Whiskies of Scotland. He has also played an integral part in the ongoing build of Portintruan Distillery on Islay and is currently working on the rebirth of Tormore Distillery.
He’ll be joining us at the Common Room on October 24th for tasty whiskies, and insights aplenty!
Drams to be confirmed.
Location:
5 Quarter Bar, The Common Room.

Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus (Multi-day run)
2025-10-24 19:00 - 2025-11-01 21:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Niltoni Entertainment’s electrifying theatrical hit returns — now at The Common Room from 24th October to 1st November 2025.
This autumn, the world has Frankenstein fever. With a surge of new film and television adaptations reimagining Mary Shelley’s immortal tale, Newcastle audiences are about to experience the definitive live version: Frankenstein: Or the Modern Prometheus, returning this time in the grandeur of The Common Room’s Wood Hall.
Last year, the production played for two weeks at Newcastle Castle Keep to much acclaim and 5-star reviews, selling out every performance. Audiences and critics alike hailed it as an intense, atmospheric, and unforgettable reimagining of Shelley’s masterpiece.
Directed by the critically acclaimed Jake Murray, the 2025 staging reunites powerhouse performers Jamie Brown (The Creature), Will Sutherland (Victor Frankenstein), and Louise Dearden (Elizabeth), with the thrilling addition of Jacob Anderton as Henry, bringing new chemistry and dramatic tension to the story.
“This is Frankenstein as it was meant to be experienced — up close, visceral, and deeply human,” says Director Jake Murray. “In a year when Frankenstein is everywhere on screen, our production strips away the Hollywood gloss and takes audiences right to the beating heart of Shelley’s masterpiece.”
Blending theatrical intimacy with cinematic atmosphere, the production uses hauntingly effective staging, immersive lighting, and a soundscape that envelops the audience. In the historic setting of The Common Room, every breath, heartbeat, and crackle of electricity feels inescapably real.
Following last year’s sold-out run, tickets are expected to vanish quickly. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Shelley’s novel, a horror enthusiast, or newly drawn to the legend by this year’s onslaught of Frankenstein reimaginings, this is the chance to experience the story that started it all — live, in the flesh.
Venue: The Common Room, Newcastle upon Tyne
Tickets & Info: https://www.niltoni.com/box-office

Whisky Tasting: A evening with Dave Broom
2025-11-01 19:00 - 21:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
To anyone remotely interested in reading about drinks, the name Dave Broom will be
a familiar one.
With 14 books under his belt, Dave has established himself around the world as a
trusted authority on all things spirits, especially whisky.
He’ll be joining us at The Common Room on Friday the 28th March to celebrate the
release of the third edition of his renowned “World Atlas of Whisky”, with tales of his
adventures and a 6 dram tasting he has curated specifically for the evening.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to pre-order a signed copy of the “World
Atlas of Whisky”.
Opportunities such as this don’t occur often in Newcastle, interested parties would
be well advised to purchase a place quickly to avoid disappointment.
We will be drinking whiskies from the following distilleries…
Raasay
White Peak
Westland
Thy
Boann
Starward
Yoichi
AND some new- make spirit from the recently reopened Rosebank.
Event starts at 7:00pm

Waggonways: Exhibition & Family Activity Day
2025-11-08 10:00 - 13:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Come along to explore the Coxlodge waggonway; see our exhibition; take part in creating waggonway zines full of drawings, maps, poems and pictures. We will provide all the pens, paper, maps and glue you need.
Waggonways, our early railways, once transported coal across the north east and now provide amazing paths for walking, cycling and wheeling. Come along and discover their rich, varied and sometimes forgotten history.
Find out about the Coxlodge waggonway in Newcastle; explore children’s stories, adults’ memories and some secrets along the way.

(Postponed) Novelty Island
2025-11-08 19:30 - 23:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join us at The Common Room for a captivating night with Novelty Island, the brainchild of Liverpool-based songwriter and producer Tom McConnell. Known for their hook-filled dream pop, the band effortlessly blends surrealism with a touch of Northern melancholy, all wrapped up in brilliant, classic songwriting. McConnell himself describes the project as “Paul McCartney having an argument with Bernard Black,” giving you a taste of their unique flavour.
Their acclaimed first two albums, How Are You Coping With This Century? and Wallsend Weekend Television, drew inspiration from everything from childhood memories to motorways, earning praise from Mojo, Shindig!, BBC 6 Music, and Absolute Radio. Having played Glastonbury and toured the UK as both a headliner and support act for bands like Sea Power, Novelty Island’s live performances are not to be missed – expect a psychedelic journey, often complete with imaginative papier-mâché props!
They’ll be showcasing material from their anticipated 2025 album, Jigsaw Causeway, a collection of darker, lo-fi tracks influenced by the production styles of Grandaddy and Beck. Adding another layer to their artistry, McConnell’s unique artwork, from papier-mâché sculptures to claymation, accompanies their releases, with the new album even set to coincide with his first exhibition.
‘Full of Beatlesy pop smarts’ – Mojo
‘Crafted as crisply and imaginatively as anything anyone’s ever recorded’ – Shindig!
‘Rainbow-hued psychedelic synth-pop’ – Bandcamp
‘A fever dream of whimsical verses and retro soundscapes’ – Fader
Age Restriction: 16+
