Music venue sees biggest upgrade since opening

The Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead is undergoing its biggest schedule of improvements since the venue opened more than 20 years ago.

About £4m is being invested in the first phase of a wider renewal programme, with work including the replacement of ageing infrastructure in the main concert hall, Sage One.

As part of the project, giant chiller units have been lifted out through the glass roof by crane this week so they can be replaced.

Chief executive Fraser Anderson said the work was "a vital investment in the future" of the venue.

"These upgrades will mean the amazing live music that happens here will be better supported, giving a substantially improved experience for both performers and audiences," he said.

The summer works also include installing new stage equipment, refurbishing stage lifts and installing automated stage risers.

Many of the systems being replaced have been in use since the building opened in 2004 and have reached the end of their operational life, the venue said.

The Glasshouse, formerly known as Sage Gateshead, is remaining open throughout the work, with concerts and events continuing in other parts of the building while Sage One is closed.

The concert hall is due to reopen on 19 September for the start of the new classical music season.

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