SALT & SMOKE:
STORIES OF BLYTH

Blyth Celebrates

Friday 26 to Sunday 28 September 2025

"There are stories here to discover, but not those you expect. This town will continually surprise you. Take this map... and see where it leads."

Novo Theatre presents ‘Salt & Smoke’, a theatrical adventure through the stories and streets that have shaped Blyth. A leap into the unknown will lead you to hidden and unfamiliar parts of town to encounter narratives inspired by 500 years of Blyth’s history. Be prepared to be immersed in the 18th century salt trade, 200 years of commerce and industry and even the golden age of cinema.

Salt & Smoke is part of Blyth Celebrates – a celebration of creativity and community running through to March 2026.

Free | Suitable for all Ages | Booking Required

Event Details

What: Salt & Smoke: Stories of Blyth

When: Friday 26 September, 4pm to 7pm, Saturday 27 September, 11am to 7pm & Sunday 28 September, 12.30pm to 6pm

Performances on Sunday 28 September at 2.45pm & 4.45pm include BSL interpretation.

Where: Starts and ends at the Market Place, Blyth

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What to expect

Get ready for a unique, theatrical journey in the heart of Blyth! Perfect for the curious of all ages, the experience lasts around an hour and starts and ends at Blyth Market Place.

When you arrive, you’ll collect a map and set off in small groups to discover pop-up theatre moments at different spots around the town centre.

Tickets are free – but booking is essential. Sessions run throughout the day, so you can choose a time that suits you. The experience includes a gentle walk of about a mile. All routes and venues are wheelchair accessible.

BSL-interpreted performances will be available on Sunday 28 September at 2.45pm and 4.45pm.

An Access Guide with full details can be accessed here. A large print version is available here. If you’d like a copy emailed directly to you, please get in touch at info@novotheatre.org.uk.

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About Novo Theatre

Novo Theatre (formerly November Club) works with some of the most exciting theatre makers in the North East to create original, unexpected stories that connect past, present, and future.

Rooted in the North East, their productions reflect the region’s people, places, and voices—not only in the themes and narratives they explore, but also in the way they work. Collaboration is at the heart of what they do, with communities actively shaping projects through co-creation and participation.

As a National Portfolio Organisation supported by Arts Council England, Novo Theatre is committed to championing local talent and enriching cultural life across the region.

The company was first established in 1990 as European Players, became a registered charity in 1993, evolved into November Club in 2010, and rebranded as Novo Theatre in June 2025.

“Salt & Smoke will take our audiences on a journey through Blyth's past and explore some extraordinary locations in the centre of the town. There will be untold historical tales, characters from the town's past and more than a touch of magic. Salt & Smoke will transform how you view the places and streets of this brilliant place. We are really excited to be working alongside all at Blyth Celebrates to form part of this exceptional programme."

Joe Hufton,

Artistic Director, Novo Theatre

Also coming up this weekend

Sat 27 Sept, 11am & 2pm

Fisherfolk

Presented by Meta4 Dance Company

Celebrate Blyth’s rich fishing heritage through storytelling, performance, and live dance. These two 15-minute performances are inspired by real memories and experiences shared by the local community.

Enjoy a moving tribute that brings Blyth’s voices to life in the heart of the town.

Location: Market Place, Blyth
Free, no booking required

Who is Novo Theatre?

Novo Theatre is a Northumberland-based theatre company. They specialise in telling original stories in unusual places and produce award-winning immersive theatre experiences that are connected to the people and stories of the North East. You can find out more about them and their previous work at www.novotheatre.org.uk
Who is the event suitable for?

Salt & Smoke is suitable for all ages.
How do I get there?

The Market Place is in the heart of Blyth, easily reached by foot, bike, car, or public transport.
Do children need a ticket?

Yes book a FREE ticket for all members of your group including children.
Is the event accessible?

The route is wheelchair accessible. There will be a full access guide produced ahead of the event. It will be available to download as a PDF or by emailing info@novotheatre.org.uk.
When is the event?

Performances will be available to book during the following times: Friday 26 September between 4pm and 7pm Saturday 27 September between 11am and 7pm Sunday 28 September between 12.30pm and 6pm.
Can I travel in a greener way?

Yes! You can take the new Northumberland Line to Newsham Station and walk into town, or use local bus services which drop off nearby.
How much does it cost to attend?

Tickets are FREE, but must be booked in advance to guarantee your space. There may be a small number of spaces available on the day.
Where can I park?

Free parking is available at Keel Row and High Street car parks – just a short walk from the Market Place.
What happens if I am late?

If you miss your booked timeslot, we will do our best to fit you into the next performance, but this cannot be guaranteed.
What will happen during the event?

Salt and Smoke is a series of theatre performances by professional actors in different locations around Blyth town centre. It will start and finish at Blyth Market Place, where you will be given a map to guide you on your adventure. In small groups you will make your way around various locations in Blyth town centre. At each location you will meet a series of characters who will each tell a different story connected to Blyth’s history. The event will take approximately 1 hour to complete and you will walk approximately 1 mile in total. There will be stewards at each location to help you along your way.
Can I take photographs or video during the event?

No filming or photography is allowed during the event. We'd like to keep the experience a surprise for other visitors who have booked tickets.
What happens in bad weather?

The event is designed to go ahead in most weather. In the event of a severe weather warning and the event must be cancelled, ticket holders will be contacted via Eventbrite.
What should I do if I can no longer attend?

If you have booked a ticket and can no longer attend please cancel your ticket via Eventbrite so someone else can enjoy the event.
What should I bring?

Bring a copy of your ticket confirmation with you (either a printed copy or on your phone). Salt and Smoke is an outdoor event so check the forecast and come dressed for the weather. It involves walking approximately 1 mile so wear shoes you are comfortable walking in.
Do I need to book a ticket?

Yes booking is essential as tickets are limited for each session.
Can I take a pushchair or pram inside?

Pushchairs and prams need to stay outside.
What is a Luminarium?

A Luminarium is a huge inflatable sculpture you can walk inside. It’s filled with colour and light, creating a magical maze of glowing tunnels and domes. Some people find it calming, like a place to rest or meditate. Others love the sense of wonder as the colours shift and change around them.
Can guide dogs come inside?

Unfortunately, no. The Luminarium isn’t a comfortable or safe place for dogs – even guide dogs. Instead, we’ll work with you to find another way to support your visit.
Do I need to book tickets?

The Luminarium will be open daily from 10am with last admissions at 4.15pm. Advance tickets can be booked online for priority entry every half hour from 10.30am to 3.15pm. Please arrive 10 minutes before your time slot. You’ll have priority entry for up to 30 minutes, but may still need to queue briefly. Walk-up tickets are available each day on a first come first served basis. The queue may close early if it gets busy. If advance tickets are sold out online, you can still join the walk-up queue on the day. All tickets are free. Tickets will be available to book soon. Watch this space!
What happens in bad weather?

The event is designed to go ahead in most weather. In the event of a severe weather warning and the event must be cancelled, anyone who has booked ticket will be contacted via Eventbrite.
Where can I park?

Free parking is available at Keel Row and High Street car parks – just a short walk from the Market Place.
What should I bring?

If you've booked tickets in advance, please bring a copy of your ticket confirmation with you (either a printed copy or on your phone).
Is this event free?

Yes. Tickets are FREE, and can be booked in advance to guarantee your space.
What should I expect on my visit?

When you arrive, you’ll join one of two queues: advance tickets or walk-ups. At the entrance, you’ll take off your shoes before stepping through the airlock. Once inside, you’re free to wander, follow your map, or just find a quiet pod to sit and soak up the atmosphere. Your first reaction will probably be “Wow!” – the light and colour are breathtaking. Some people like to explore every corner, while others just sit back and let it wash over them. There’s no right way – enjoy it in your own style.
Can I travel in a greener way?

Yes! You can take the new Northumberland Line to Newsham Station and walk into town, or use local bus services which drop off nearby.
Do children need a ticket?

Yes book a FREE ticket for all members of your group including children.
How do I get there?

The Market Place is in the heart of Blyth, easily reached by foot, bike, car, or public transport.
Who is the Luminarium for?

Everyone! The Luminarium is for all ages – perfect for families, friends, or anyone who enjoys something a bit different. It is fully accessible for wheelchair users. Children under 16 must come with an adult.
Is this event free?

Yes. All events are drop-in, no booking required.
Can I travel in a greener way?

Yes! You can take the new Northumberland Line to Newsham Station and walk into town, or use local bus services which drop off nearby.
Where will these activities take place?

All activities will take place in the Market Pavilion, in the heart of Blyth town centre.
When and where will the Halloween Parade take place?

The week will end in a spectacular community parade starting at 3pm from the Market Pavilion, filling the streets with colour, music and costumes. Come and join the celebrations.
Where can I park?

Free parking is available at Keel Row and High Street car parks – just a short walk from the Market Place.
Do I need to book tickets?

No. These events are all FREE drop-in activities.
How do I get there?

The Market Pavilion is in the heart of Blyth, easily reached by foot, bike, car, or public transport.
How much does it cost to attend?

Entry is free, and it’s a drop-in event — no tickets needed.
When is the event?

The event will take place on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September from 10am to 5pm.
Where can I park?

Free parking is available at Keel Row and High Street car parks – just a short walk from the Market Place.
How do I get there?

The Market Place is in the heart of Blyth, easily reached by foot, bike, car, or public transport.
Is the event accessible?

Yes, the site is fully accessible with flat access throughout. Accessible toilets, assistance, and seating areas are available.
What happens in bad weather?

The event is designed to go ahead in most weather. In the event of a severe weather warning and the event must be cancelled, ticket holders will be contacted via Eventbrite.
Who is the event suitable for?

Vintage Blyth is a family-friendly event suitable for all ages.
Can I travel in a greener way?

Yes! You can take the new Northumberland Line to Newsham Station and walk into town, or use local bus services which drop off nearby.
What facilities are available on-site?

Public toilets are located just behind the Market Pavilion.