Becoming a Theatre of Sanctuary
We’re a community of music lovers and music makers. And everyone is welcome.
And that’s why we’re working to become a Theatre of Sanctuary. This means we’re dedicated to being a safe, friendly, and supportive space for refugees and asylum seekers in our region. Our building isn’t just a place for gigs and performances; it’s a lively spot where people from all walks of life can come together, share experiences, and feel at home. We want everyone who walks through our doors to be greeted with a smile and feel part of a creative community of music lovers.
Visiting The Glasshouse
We’d love to meet you. If you’re new to The Glasshouse and curious about what happens here, you’re warmly invited to explore, ask questions, and find out how you can get involved.
A Warm Welcome Space
Everyone is welcome to drop in and enjoy a warm, safe space. We offer free tea and coffee in a friendly environment – no need to book, just come in and make yourself at home. Ask our café staff for a Warm Welcome drink.
Fun for the family
Bring the family when you visit. There’s a play area in our Cafe filled with toys, games and books where young children can play while you relax.
Café and co-working space
Looking for somewhere to work, meet or just relax? Our Café and shared spaces are open to all. Grab a drink, use the free Wi-Fi, and enjoy the buzz of a creative, welcoming environment.
Music and connection
We invited refugee and asylum seeker families to The Big Family Gig – an afternoon filled with music and connection. For many, it was their first time seeing professional live music in a venue. Scarves floated through the air, puppets danced, bubbles popped and the sound of the drums and guitars brought the room the life.
“Our space should always feel safe and filled with warmth. We want refugee and asylum seeker families to share in the joy of live music and to know they belong here.”
Kay Storey, Make Music Young People Coordinator
What is a Theatre of Sanctuary?
A Theatre of Sanctuary is a place of welcome. It is part of a national movement that celebrates the contribution of refugees and people seeking sanctuary, and creates a culture of inclusion, safety, and solidarity. Theatres of Sanctuary commit to offering meaningful artistic and cultural experiences, a place of safety, warmth and welcome, along with opportunities for expression, and a platform for unheard voices.
Our commitment
By becoming a Theatre of Sanctuary, we’ll create a community where everyone feels valued and included. This means embedding sanctuary values into every corner of our work.
Welcome and belonging
Anyone who visits us should feel safe, respected, and valued, regardless of their background or status. Whether it’s free tickets, free tea or coffee, space to play or just a friendly face, you’ll always get a warm welcome at The Glasshouse.
Learning and training
Our team is taking on training to deepen our understanding of the challenges faced by sanctuary seekers and how we can all help to create a more inclusive cultural landscape.
Advocacy and visibility
We’re involved in sanctuary networks in Newcastle and Gateshead, working with partners on advocating for refugee and asylum seekers and to promote understanding and empathy.
Working together
This journey is one we can’t take alone. We’re working closely with local and national partners – including organisations like Action Foundation, GemArts, The Comfrey Project, Peace of Mind, WERS, Newcastle and Gateshead councils, artists from sanctuary backgrounds, and the Sanctuary and Culture network, to make sure our approach is authentic and responsive.
Join us
Whether you’re a sanctuary seeker, charity, artist, supporter, or simply someone who believes in the power of the arts to bring people together, we want you to be part of this journey. To get involved or connect with our Theatre of Sanctuary work, email: theatreofsanctuary@theglasshouseicm.org.
