The North East theatre world has come together to pay their respects to the Queen, with plans to dim lights, play the national anthem and open books of condolence to honour her memory.
Performances, however, will otherwise continue as normal, in line with national guidance. Among those sharing messages of sorrow and support for the Queen 's family was the Theatre Royal in Newcastle which, having been granted its royal licence by King George III, has maintained its connections over the years including visits by the now-King Charles.
Marianne Locatori, its chief executive, said: "We will be flying our flag at half-mast and, as a mark of respect, during the national period of mourning we will ask audiences to join us in a silence and play the national anthem before every performance."