A NORTH-EAST city's newest theatre opened its doors for the first time on Friday.

The Round, in Newcastle, is a new £1m theatre, slotted into a courtyard within the artists' workshop warehouse, at 36 Lime Street.

Nestled between Seven Stories and The Cluny, The Round is the only theatre for children and young people in the region and its only theatre-in-the-round.

Home to the Bruvvers Theatre Company, it offers drama, comedy, cabaret, music and magic.

Companies from around the country such as TAG, Trestle, Kaos, Sakoba Dance and Tall Stories will be visiting in the first few months, as well as local groups such as CTC Theatre, Monster Productions and Hells Belles Comedy Cabaret.

Theatre manager Ben Fletcher-Watson said: "It's not just about performance - workshops, youth theatre, question-and-answer sessions after shows, technical training, career advice and summer schools are all part of our work.

"The local community is at the heart of what we do - the theatre is a place for them to come and enjoy top-quality theatre, but also to learn about the performance.

"Everything that we do is suitable for children and young people, and we want everyone to feel a part of what we do."

The theatre's booking line 0191-260-5605 or visit www.the-round.com