Stephenson Works is one of the north-east's most significant but least heralded historic landmarks. Tucked away in a cul-de-sac behind the station, it looks like any other abandoned machine shed – yet it was here that Robert Stephenson and Company developed Locomotion No 1, the Rocket, and other iconic engines that transformed the world.
Until now, the only people to explore the site have been train enthusiasts persistent enough to procure a key. Yet, with the surrounding area set to be redeveloped, it has become an arts venue housing the debut project from the new company, Unfolding Theatre.
You are led on a journey, part of it blindfolded, around the foundry where Stephenson and his father George dreamed the industrial future. Along the way, you encounter figures who have created their own palaces of the imagination: a brokenhearted jazz singer who finds solace in her songs; a clown surrounded by a sinister collection of masks; best of all, a percussionist who invites you to participate in a "gong bath", which turns out to be an invigorating form of acoustic cleansing.
The experience is subject to the pitfalls of site-specific theatre: some of the encounters seem more consequential than others; a few terminate when they're beginning to get interesting. But at its best, Annie Rigby's production has the simple pleasure of an evening spent being introduced to some thrillingly talented people in a fascinating environment. Stephenson may have designed locomotives, but his buildings leave a remarkable legacy as arts centres – look what has become of the Roundhouse.
Until 25 September. Box office: 0191-230 5151.
