A THEATRE that has hosted performances by everyone from Sir Laurence Olivier to The Krankies has established a new legal partnership.

Samuel Phillips Law Firm has been appointed legal advisor to Newcastle’s Theatre Royal, which is celebrating its 175th anniversary this year.

“What started as a philanthropic relationship with the partners of Samuel Phillips Law Firm has been able to develop further, and we are pleased to appoint the firm to work with us on any legal matters,” said Richard Berg Rust, director of development for the theatre, which reopened last year following a major refurbishment.

“Partnerships such as this are vital to the arts, and we thank everyone at the firm for their support.”

Over the years, many of the great names of the English stage have played at the venue, and Hollywood greats Orson Welles, Charlton Heston and Jack Lemmon have also trodden the famous boards.

Robert Gibson, managing partner of Samuel Phillips Law Firm, said: “The Theatre Royal is one of the finest arts venues in the North of England, regularly hosting world-class productions, and bringing inspiring companies such as Opera North and the Royal Shakespeare Company to Newcastle.

“We are glad to be able to support Richard and his team, and to strengthen the relationship between the two companies further.

“This is an important appointment for Samuel Phillips. It reflects not only our company’s strength in delivering legal services for its corporate clients, but also our determination to support the community around us here in Newcastle.”