arc arts centre

As a local I had always been bias against this place due to what was knocked down to build it and then all the problems with the management - it sounded too corrupt and arty for us local folk. My poor view was compounded by the few times I used the box office to buy tickets for Riverside events as the staff always seemed too busy to bother with people who weren’t going to acutual arc events. - But I must now admit that is all in the past.
My Husband got tickets to the Arc Comedy club in July (need to get tickets early as they sell out fast for the comedy club nights as they are only held once a month) and having actually been in the place and meeting the staff and seeing a proper show I loved it. The door staff are efficent and friendly, the bar/cafe downstairs is clean and modern. The upstairs bar is again clean and modern and the staff know how to deal with crowds at the bar. The auditurium where the comedy show is held is set out wonderfully with small tables and tea-lights for a real initmate feeling. I loved it. The only thing to remember is a get there early to get a good seat (we were told reservations are only allowed for large parties) and to get your drinks in before the crowds start.

At first I hated this place because it involved the demolition of my two favourite places, the Dovecot arts centre and the Cannon Cinema. But it grew on me.
It is big and yellow and was shut down for a year or so because of mis-management. A bit of the wall revolves because of ‘art.’ The outside is spoilt by metal walkways to save on cleaning costs.
There is one big theatre, a smaller auditorium used for stand up gigs, a gym, a cinema and rehearsal rooms, as well as bars and restaurants. It is a little too big for the area but I think the guys have got their act together in terms of publicity so that people in the area who want to go know when stuff’s on.
It really comes alive during Stockton festival, when all the weird european street performers use it as a base. If you’re in the area this is the best place to go for a night out.