The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre is celebrating a major milestone this October, marking 20 years at the heart of Newport’s cultural and artistic life. Since opening its doors with a spectacular gala concert featuring opera star Katherine Jenkins and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on Saturday, 23 October 2004, the theatre has grown into a thriving hub for arts, culture, and community engagement.
On the evening, Katherine Jenkins shared, “I feel really excited and honoured to be at the opening,” capturing the sense of excitement that filled the 482-seat auditorium, packed to capacity. The opening weekend drew large crowds, and in just its first year, The Riverfront hosted more than 1,150 events, welcoming audiences of over 60,000.
Looking Back on 20 Years of Success
In its first decade, The Riverfront went from strength to strength. By 2014, it had solidified its position as one of Wales’ premiere arts venues, offering an incredible variety of performances, including theatre, dance, opera and cinema screenings alongside a wonderful programme of community arts development forging important partnerships across the city. A firm favourite among locals, the annual pantomime, which continues to delight audiences to this day, now drawing over 27,000 attendees annually. The theatre’s reputation attracted big names such as Dara O’Briain, Max Boyce, Derren Brown, and Jason Manford. Twice named Welsh Building of the Year, The Riverfront became a vibrant hub for community projects and creative collaborations.
A Legacy of Excellence and Community
In 2024, The Riverfront remains Newport’s cultural heartbeat and is preparing to produce and host its 19th pantomime. It is also home to Big Splash, Wales’ largest free outdoor arts festival, making art accessible to thousands.
With an average of 150 shows and welcoming more than 100,000 people through its doors annually for theatre perfromances, family events, festivals, art exhibitions, community workshops and cinema screenings. The Riverfront’s dedication to bringing as many people as possible into contact with the arts is stronger than ever.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Andrea Ovey, Director of Business Development at Newport Live shared, “As The Riverfront celebrates its 20th birthday, we want to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who has been a part of this journey—our audiences, staff, performers, participants, schools, communities, and supporters. Without your enthusiasm and passion for the arts, these 20 years would not have been possible.
As we look forward to the future whilst reflecting on the last two decades, we continue our mission to make the arts an essential part of life in Newport and beyond. We look forward to welcoming more people to experience and enjoy arts and culture.”
