Lumo and Newcastle Theatre Royal announce new partnership

Agreement brings financial support for the independent theatre and discounted tickets for Lumo’s 125-strong workforce, with further community projects in the pipeline.

Newcastle-based open access train operator Lumo has announced a new partnership with Newcastle Theatre Royal, providing financial support for the independent charity and helping more colleagues experience live theatre.

Under the agreement, Lumo’s 125-strong workforce will have access to discounted tickets and exclusive events. The two organisations are also exploring further joint outreach projects focused on accessibility and opportunity across the North East.

The partnership brings together two organisations rooted in Newcastle, with a shared ambition to celebrate the region’s culture, support its talent and connect more people with new experiences.

Richard Salkeld, Director of Communications & Partnerships, for Lumo, said: “A theatre and a railway are both about bringing people together and opening up experiences. We want people from outside the region to come here, discover its culture, meet its people and see what makes it special.

“But those connections work both ways. The North East of England has extraordinary stories, talent and businesses, and we want to help them reach new audiences and opportunities within and beyond the region.

“This isn’t just an off-the-shelf partnership - it’s a celebration of our shared passion for the region.”

Newcastle Theatre Royal is an independent, not-for-profit charity operating without regular Arts Council or local authority subsidy. Income generated through its commercial activities helps sustain its artistic, cultural and community impact.Its existing programme includes a long-standing partnership with the West End Schools' Trust (WEST), which serves nearly 3,000 pupils across nine primary schools in Newcastle's inner west, creating opportunities for children and young people to engage with theatre and develop creative skills.

Alongside employee benefits, the partnership creates a platform for both organisations to explore wider community initiatives across the North East.Marianne Locatori, Chief Executive of Newcastle Theatre Royal, said: "We're delighted to be partnering with Lumo, an organisation that shares our commitment to making opportunities and experiences more accessible. As an independent charity, partnerships like this play an important role in helping us extend our reach, connect with new audiences and invest in the cultural life of our region. This is an exciting first step, and we look forward to exploring how we can create meaningful opportunities for communities across the North East together."

The relationship is at an early stage, with both organisations looking at how they can develop collaborative projects that build on those shared priorities.

The agreement follows other recent Lumo partnerships across the North East, including the launch of Brewmo with Newcastle’s Full Circle Brew Co and an expanded partnership with Newcastle Eagles Women, becoming the team’s principal shirt sponsor for the 2026/27 season. The company also has partnered with the Centre for Life, North East Museums, OUT North East and Newcastle Frontrunners to further support arts, culture and inclusivity.

Lumo has also worked with B Local North East and B Local Scotland to support a business rail delegation to London’s Blue Earth Summit, alongside its wider support for Pride organisations and community initiatives. 

For more information about Newcastle Theatre Royal and its programme of performances, visit www.theatreroyal.co.uk.