SAGE Gateshead

Sage Gateshead opened in December 2004. The project began as a vision to transform a vacant piece of industrial wasteland into a world-class music venue and a place where anyone can come and enjoy and create music. This was certainly achieved, as the international music centre is now home to a diverse range of music genres and artists, with hip-hop, rock, classical and jazz all featuring on its programme by local, global and emerging artists. There are music-making opportunities for people of all ages and abilities and lots of support for emerging artists, including residencies which offer access to experts and the chance to perform in this iconic venue.

The building itself is visually stunning, boasting an award-winning, stainless steel and curved glass design. With National Lottery funding Sage Gateshead was able to welcome half a million visitors from 2017 to 2018, stage more than 400 concerts per year and more than 10,000 music classes, truly cementing its position as a staple in Northern culture. Sage Gateshead is also committed to inclusivity and has received a Gold award from Attitude is Everything, which campaigns for better access to live music for deaf and disabled people.

Managing Director Abigail Pogson said: “If Sage Gateshead didn’t exist, we’d want to invent it. As a building and a charity, we bring jobs, economic impact, great nights out, essential learning for young people and nurture the next generation of musicians for the north.”