The building was completed in 1943; we believe that it was the only theatre in the country to be built during the war.
You can learn more about the Progressive Players at their own website
We’re proud to be the permanent home of the Progressive Players
The theatre was built for the Progressive Players, who had been performing in various halls around Gateshead since 1920, but the complications of never having a permanent place to work from led to the theatre being built.
Although we welcome many other companies onto our stage throughout the year, the Progressive Players are the life blood of the Little Theatre, putting on around ten shows a year of their own, and providing all of the volunteers who you see selling tickets, coffee, ice cream or working in our bar and so much more.
Progressive Players members act, built sets, manage wardrobe and props, work on lighting and sound and all manner of other jobs that go into producing fantastic theatrical productions. Whether you want to tread the boards or direct your creativity into things that go on behind the scenes, there really are opportunities for everyone.
Three remarkable sisters
The Little Theatre owes its existence to Hope, Sylvia and Ruth Dodds – three sisters who together funded and managed the construction of the theatre.
Ruth Dodds
Hope Dodds
Sylvia Dodds