The Sage Gateshead stands on the banks of the River Tyne, outshining surrounding buildings with it's modern glass design.

This building was designed for outstanding acoustics, and it does deliver. A year ago I saw Bryan Ferry perform there and the sound was amazing compared to other venues. Similarly last night at Jonathan Ansell's 'A Night At The Opera' show.

It is a lovely intimate venue with a seating capacity of 1600 people. It has a low stage, so no problem seeing from the very 'up close and personal' front row! So nice to be within touching distance of your favourite artist!

Besides the stall seating there are two more levels. I'm not sure of the view from the top level, but the second level is very good for those who like to be a bit further back and up a height.

The Sage is very modern and conveniently has it's own cafe, restaurant and bars. The cafe has an assortment of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, cakes and hot food.

The bars are on the next level up, one in the East Hall and one in the West.Having not tried the restaurant yet I cannot comment, but it is situated behind the cafe area and the prices seem reasonable.

The car park is reasonably priced at £3.50 for over 3 hours (cheaper than the Arena which is £5) - at the time of writing this.

Looking out for the huge glass walls of the Sage is a fantastic view of the River Tyne, which is even more beautiful in the evening when everything is lit up. You have the Tyne Bridge at one end and the Millennium Bridge at the other.

The only downside I have for this venue is the audience. For some reason they tend to insist on being rooted to their seats. Could they be bothered to stand on their feet for a standing ovation last night - NO, or for a bit of a jig when Bryan Ferry was performing? No. So if you are a performer, or you prefer more of an electric atmosphere - choose Newcastle City Hall instead.

Agree with Tracey C about all they say of the Sage. It is a marvelous venue and the sound is impecable. The audience do seem slow to react to stuff on stage but that doenst bother me. Also like the fact drinks cannot be brought into the performance arena itself.