Sunderland – What's On guide – From August 2023

Welcome to Sunderland Empire!

We’ve had an incredible start to 2023, with a phenomenal 200,000 esteemed patrons seeing one of our sensational productions from Disney’s The Lion King to The Sunderland Story – so thank you! We’ve welcomed an incredible number of first-time visitors, as well as many theatre enthusiasts, and I hope all patrons have thoroughly enjoyed their visit. We also revealed that the mighty Hamilton will be making its North East debut in Sunderland in 2025, on its first ever UK tour. See page 33 to sign up to be the first to know when tickets go on sale and access exclusive priority booking.

There’s plenty more exciting blockbuster shows in store! Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will make a sweet family day out this summer, while the feel-good Everybody’s Talking About Jamie will shine a spotlight on September. Add extra sparkle to your festive season with Greatest Days, a story you’ll never forget, and the divine musical comedy Sister Act. There is something for everyone this season!

In other news, our Creative Learning team continues to shine with their Public Acts project in collaboration with Sunderland Culture and National Theatre. The fourth episode of The Odyssey, The Island of the Sun was a great success and shone a light on a local cast of 25 talented community members, highlighting the city’s extraordinary maritime and music heritage. Congratulations to everyone involved and good luck to the 11 Sunderland cast making their way to London to perform Part 5: The Underworld at the National Theatre in August 2023.

Our Creative Learning team is supported by the Sunderland Empire Theatre Trust, a registered charity whose objective is to engage as many people as possible in arts education in the Sunderland area. If you or your organisation would like more information or to offer support to help more people take part in our classes, workshops and performing arts academies, please contact the Sunderland Empire Trust at sunderlandcustomerservice@theambassadors.com

We look forward to welcoming you back to our wonderful theatre again soon!

We are delighted to welcome you to our venue, where we want everyone to enjoy the show. With that in mind, we politely ask that you show consideration to your fellow audience members, who have come to enjoy the performances on-stage. We all have a part to play in making sure the theatre is a fantastic experience for all –you can help by ensuring the professionals on-stage are the only people entertaining us with their performances, and being kind to our dedicated staff, who are here to keep everyone safe. Anti-social behaviour towards our staff or other customers will not be tolerated.

Meet Paula Mitchell, our Sales and Development Manager

What is your role at Sunderland Empire?

I am responsible for all venue partnerships and sponsorships with the business community. Whether it’s to reward staff or treat clients with our 1907 Corporate Club or helping businesses further their CSR impact by supporting our not-for-profit Creative Learning programme. I work with businesses to create bespoke packages that will be beneficial for all involved.

Why do you enjoy your role?

I love to meet other people so it’s great that the role allows me to get out and attend networking events. I am passionate about theatre and love chatting to people about the amazing shows that they’ve seen here and getting them excited about the wonderful work that we are doing.

What’s something you’re proud of?

I joined ATG last August and have been delighted to welcome five new sponsors within that time: Laser Clinics, Ocado, Interdigitate, Pure Bliss and North East Times Magazine. It’s been great working with these partners, we’ve created some fantastic experiences at the theatre for their staff and clients – all while showcasing their support for the theatre. I thrive on sharing my love of theatre and truly appreciate their collaboration with us.

What shows are you most looking forward to?

Without a doubt, Disney’s Aladdin; you’ve never seen someone so excited when this was announced. I saw the show within its first week on the West End and loved it... I have (multiple) tickets for the upcoming run, I will enjoy every moment of it being in our iconic theatre and bringing thousands of people into the city to enjoy this unmissable show.

See page 32 for more information on how you can work with us more closely.

WATCH

YOUR FAVOURITE SHOWS FOR JUST £13* WITH PRICE PROMISE

As a thank you for your ongoing support, we’ve extended our Price Promise! You can book up to four Price Promise tickets at £13 each, making it the perfect way to enjoy the magic of live theatre with friends or family.

Keep an eye out for our logo in the brochure and book online selecting the £13 Price Promise seats.

To book, simply select your chosen show, click ‘buy tickets’ and choose your £13 Price Promise seats.

WHAT’S THE DEAL?

£13 tickets

Limited to four tickets per purchase

Limited number available per performance – so be quick!

*Price Promise tickets are strictly limited. Max 4 tickets per person. Lead booker must attend performance and present valid ID on arrival. Transaction fees apply. Ticket limits breached will result in cancellation of your tickets.

From Blue Light to Limelight

To honour our Local Heroes, we are offering teachers, social care workers, prison officers, armed forces, ‘blue light’ professionals and Max Card holders 25% off the ticket price of a wide variety of shows. If we can make a night at the theatre more affordable for our heroes and their families, it’ll be our pleasure.

So keep an eye out for our logo on selected shows.

Please

atgtix.co/LocalHeroes

THEATRE FOR ALL

We believe everyone should be able to enjoy the thrill of live theatre. We’re now working with Nimbus Disability, one of the country’s leading providers of disability-related advice and support, and a recognised leading authority on accessible ticketing in the UK.

AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES

Live verbal commentary is given through headsets to assist patrons who are visually impaired. The description doesn’t change the performance for any guests, but fills in the gaps for those who require it.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical

Wed 9 Aug 7pm

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie

Thu 21 Sep 7.30pm

Beauty and the Beast Thu 28 Dec 7pm

Disney’s Aladdin Wed 6 Mar 2024 7.30pm

Jesus Christ Superstar Thu 13 Jun 2024 7.30pm

The Wizard of Oz Thu 8 Aug 2024 7.30pm

Wicked Thu 17 Oct 2024 7.30pm

BSL INTERPRETED PERFORMANCES

Trained Sign Language signers stand to one side of the stage and interpret the script used by the performers at the same time as the actions are being performed.

Disney’s Aladdin Wed 6 Mar 2024 7.30pm

Wicked Thu 10 Oct 2024 7.30pm

WORK WITH US

CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES

Similar to television subtitles, captions give patrons who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing access to live performance. The actors’ words appear on unobstructive display units at the side of the stage at the same time as they are spoken or sung.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical Wed 9 Aug 7pm

Beauty and the Beast Thu 28 Dec 7pm

Disney’s Aladdin Fri 8 Mar 2024 7.30pm

Jesus Christ Superstar Thu 13 Jun 2024 7.30pm

The Wizard of Oz Thu 8 Aug 2024 7.30pm

Wicked Tue 15 Oct 2024 7.30pm

RELAXED PERFORMANCES

Designed to benefit patrons with additional needs, including those on the autistic spectrum, those who make involuntary noises, patrons with dementia or anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment. These informal performances have slight alterations that don’t impact on the content of the show.

Beauty and the Beast Wed 27 Dec 5pm

Disney’s Aladdin Thu 7 Mar 2024 6.30pm

We’re keen to increase our offering and raise awareness of our access performances. We would love to hear from local people, groups and organisations who would like to work with us more closely in making this a reality. If this is of interest, please email sunderlandaccess@theambassadors.com

Please note, this email address cannot be used for Access bookings or enquiries. Please see inside back cover for details on how to make an Access booking.

Escape to a world of pure imagination with Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory –The Musical.

This spectacular show follows the hit West End and Broadway productions to combine the memorable songs from the original 1970s motion picture (The Candy Man and Pure Imagination) with incredible new numbers from the songwriters of Hairspray. Every ticket is golden, book yours today! Ages 7+

Award-winning English Youth Ballet returns to Sunderland with the charming family ballet –Coppélia. Starring international principal dancers and showcasing the most talented local young dancers selected for their skill and potential.

Coppélia is perfect for young and old alike. The humorous story follows the escapades of the dreamy Franz and how he comically falls in love with a beautiful, life-like doll.

‘A TRULY SPECTACULAR SIGHT – IT WAS A FANTASTICALLY POLISHED AND PROFESSIONAL SHOW.’ – Nottingham Post

TUE – SUN 7PM

THU, SAT & SUN MATS 2PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Wed 2 Aug

GROUPS Offer – £7 off per ticket for groups of 10+

Tue – Thu

UNDER 16s Offer – Half price Tue – Thu

AUDIO DESCRIBED Wed 9 Aug 7pm

CAPTIONED Wed 9 Aug 7pm

FRI & SAT 7.30PM SAT MAT 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £16.78

ATG THEATRECARD Offer – £2 off

GROUPS Offer – £3 off per ticket for groups of 10+ plus 1 in 11 tickets free

UNDER 16s & SENIORS Offers – £2 off

★★★★★

‘PUNCHY, FUNNY, FABULOUS.’

TIME OUT

Supported by his brilliant loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness into the spotlight. This ‘FUNNY, OUTRAGEOUS, TOUCHING.’ (The Daily Telegraph), musical sensation is not to be missed!

Featuring a star cast including Ivano Turco, John Partridge, Rebecca McKinnis, Hayley Tamaddon, Shobna Gulati and Talia Palamathanan. This ‘SPARKLING COMING-OF-AGE MUSICAL.’ (The Times) will have everybody talking about Jamie for years to come.

TUE – SAT 7.30PM

WED & SAT MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Tue

GROUPS Best offer – £5 off per ticket for groups of 10+ Wed & Thu

SCHOOLS Offer – £20 per ticket for groups of 10+ plus 1 free teacher ticket for every 10 purchased Wed & Thu

AUDIO DESCRIBED Thu 21 Sep 7.30pm

Strictly Villainous

Craig Revel Horwood talks about his love for Miss Hannigan, his tyrannical character in Annie

What is so appealing about Miss Hannigan?

I am deeply in love with her. I think she is absolutely fantastic and an extremely misunderstood woman. Playing her is like an actor’s playground, she is a tyrant and a villain, and those are always the most fun characters to play. I couldn’t believe that they wanted me to play Miss Hannigan at first, but I thought it would be a real challenge. I play her for real – she’s not a pantomime dame, she’s very beautifully written.

Are there any challenges to playing Miss Hannigan? Well, the challenges are that you need to be honest and real with it. Body language has a lot to do with that, and I spent months perfecting her accent too. As Annie is set in 1930s New York, it’s really nice to play a part who speaks differently than almost anyone does these days.

Do you prefer performing and dancing or judging on Strictly? I grew up on musicals. I did West Side Story in Australia and then went into Me and My Girl and La Cage Aux Folles. I joined the famous Lido de Paris and the Moulin Rouge and then West End shows. The last musical I appeared in was Crazy For You which opened in 1993. I had a really fun year that year. I then become a director and choreographer, then

a judge on Strictly. My first hoorah back onto the boards was when I was asked to do panto over ten years ago, and that reignited my passion for performing. When I was then asked to do Annie, I couldn’t believe it, and I’ve not looked back since!

You’re busy all year with Strictly, performing, choreographing and directing – how do you spend your downtime? When I’m home I like to cook in my own kitchen and sleep in

CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD AS MISS HANNIGAN

JODIE PRENGER

The smash hit production of Annie comes to Sunderland for one week only, direct from London’s West End. This ‘glorious revival’ –(The Times) stars Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood (Mon – Fri) and Jodie Prenger (Sat) as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan

Set in 1930s New York, young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Her luck changes when she’s chosen to spend Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Meanwhile, Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her family.

With its Tony® Award-winning book and score, Annie features the unforgettable songs It’s The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street and Tomorrow

MON – SAT 7.30PM

WED & SAT MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Mon

GROUPS Offer – £7 off per ticket for groups of 10+ Mon – Thu

STUDENTS & UNDER 25s Offers – £25 Mon – Thu

The classic Mrs. Brown Rides Again is back on the UK stage for the first time in 10 years. It follows Agnes Brown and her dysfunctional family romping their way through what seems to be their Mammy’s last days at home.

After hearing a plot, by her children, to have her put into a home, Agnes decides to prove them wrong by displaying a new lease of life. However, this is not going to be as easy as it seems as along

the way she must deal with a psychiatrist trying to put her in her place, her neighbours waiting for a heart bypass and worst of all, a family secret that everyone seems to know except her. Ages 14+

WED – SAT 7.30PM

SAT MAT 2PM

TICKETS FROM £29.64

FOR BEST AVAILABILITY CHECK OUR MIDWEEK PERFORMANCES

‘TAKE THAT’S FEEL GOOD SENSATION REALLY IS BACK FOR GOOD.’

Relight Your Fire with this sensational new production of Take That’s smash hit musical Greatest Days.

Greatest Days features more than 15 recordbreaking Take That songs, alongside a heartwarming story from award-winning writer Tim Firth that will make your heart Shine.

Starring Jennifer Ellison, the musical follows five boy band-obsessed best friends in the 1990s, who reunite over 20 years later to see their heartthrobs one last time in what could be the Greatest Days of their lives.

Previously titled The Band, the show broke box office records and delighted audiences around the United Kingdom when it performed from 2017-2019.

TUE – SAT 7.30PM

WED & SAT MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £18

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Tue

GROUPS Offer – £5 off per ticket for groups of 10+

Tue – Thu

SENIORS Offer – £10 off Wed 2.30pm

Get Ready For It!

Holly Ashton, who plays Zoe, tells us why Greatest Days is this year’s must-see musical for Take That fans and people who love powerful stories of friendship.

You spent time in Sunderland when you performed in Footloose. How does it feel to be back at the Empire? I’m really excited. Before I came here last time, I didn’t know what to expect – it’s such a lovely city and I was amazed to discover it has an amazing beach! I’ll definitely be telling my castmates all about that.

Greatest Days is about four school friends who reunite 25 years later to see their idols, The Band perform. Did you have a favourite band as a teen? I liked Take That and so it’s great to be part of Greatest Days and to hear all their songs – but my all-time favourite band from my teen years has to be New Kids on The Block.

Can you tell us a bit about your character Zoe? She’s the organised one. At school she was the bookworm – a little bit nerdy. In her younger years her big plan was to go to university. I won’t give away any spoilers but sometimes life throws people curve balls and things don’t quite go to plan.

How does she relate to her friends in the musical? Heather is the naughty one and she pushes Zoe to do things that she probably wouldn’t normally do. Clare is the diva and Rachel is the lynchpin – the one who holds everyone together and makes sure everyone’s OK. I think it’s a friendship group that lots of women with a circle of female friends will identify with.

Do you see any parts of yourself in Zoe? I do actually! I’m a big planner and if we go anywhere, I’m the one with the map on my phone making sure no one gets lost! All of the actors are quite well suited to their parts as there’s a bit of each of us in all of our characters. We even connect really well with the actors who are playing our younger selves which is lovely.

Were you familiar with the show before you joined the cast? Not really, no. I was

working on a cruise ship in Mamma Mia when Greatest Days first came out and I missed the process to find the members of The Band, so it was lovely to get the script and the story was a real surprise. Which parts of the show do you enjoy the most? So, the first part follows the younger friends and then, when we reunite again after 25 years, our ‘grown-up’ characters enter to Take That’s Never Forget. There’s also a scene where we perform alongside our younger selves which is really lovely. All of us have bonded really well so it’s nice to be on stage together.

Why do you think audiences should make a beeline for the Greatest Days? If you love Take That and enjoy stories about female friendship, it’s perfect. Everyone can relate to bonding over a mutual love of music and it has a really human story at its heart. People tell us that after seeing the show they want to pick up the phone and catch up with old friends.

What do you enjoy most about about performing live? Being in a different theatre with different audiences and enjoying different responses every time. People from different places laugh at different things too. In Sunderland audiences are quite receptive so you can tell if they’re enjoying show.

What can’t you live without when you’re on tour? My tech. I have a tech station with chargers and extra long leads because there’s never a plug socket near the bed. And I love my ipad.

Can you tell us what’s next for Holly Ashton? Well, the show is running up until the end of the year, so I’ll probably take Christmas off and enjoy a well-earned rest. I’m not sure what’s happening in the New Year. We may continue with Greatest Days after January, but nothing has been decided so we’ll just have to see… watch this space.

Join all of your favourite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar.

Alex the lion is the king of the urban jungle, the main attraction at New York’s Central Park Zoo. He and his best friends – Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippo – have spent their whole lives in blissful captivity before an admiring public, with regular meals provided for them. Not content to leave well enough alone, Marty lets his curiosity get the better of him and makes

his escape – with the help of some prodigious penguins – to explore the world. Ages 3+

★★★★ ‘CRACK-A-LACKIN’ FEEL-GOOD FAMILY SHOW.’ – Manchester Evening News

WED – SAT 7PM

THU & SAT MATS 2PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – Half price Wed GROUPS Offer – £7.50 off per ticket for groups of 10+

Wed & Thu

FAMILY Offer – £100 (4 tickets, max. 2 adults)

Wed & Thu

Don’t miss this eagerly anticipated 2023 Olivier Award-nominated production of the Broadway and UK smash hit musical Sister Act

Disco diva Deloris’ life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Placed under protective custody, she is hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found – a convent! Encouraged to work with the struggling choir, she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Featuring original music by Tony® and 8-time Oscar Award-winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin,

Enchanted) and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting in equal measures. Ages 12+

★★★★★ ‘THE MOST JOYFUL SHOW I’VE SEEN ALL YEAR, BAR NUN!’ – The Sun

MON – SAT 7.30PM

WED & SAT MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – Half price Mon

GROUPS Best offer – £4 off per ticket for groups of 10+ Mon – Thu

SENIORS Offer – £15 off Wed 2.30pm

The canniest panto in all the land has been given a beastly makeover for 2023, with an enchanting story that’ll make you go ooh la la with excitement!

FRIDAY 8TH – SUNDAY 31ST DECEMBER

GO ONLINE FOR PERFORMANCE TIMES | TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Offer – £5 off | GROUPS Offer – £9 off per ticket for groups of 10+ SCHOOLS Offer – £11 per ticket (or £13 with ice cream) plus 1 free teacher ticket for every 10 students

YOUTH GROUPS Offer – £15 per ticket for groups of 10+

RELAXED PERFORMANCE Wed 27 Dec 5pm

AUDIO DESCRIBED Thu 28 Dec 7pm | CAPTIONED Thu 28 Dec 7pm

‘FRESH, SUBVERSIVE, ESSENTIAL.’

DAILY MAIL

Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical, The Rocky Horror Show comes to Sunderland as part of its sell out tour, having been seen by over 30 million theatregoers. It’s an adventure you’ll never forget, filled with fun, frolics, frocks and frivolity.

Directed by Christopher Luscombe, The Rocky Horror Show is ready to thrill you with fun and naughty moments, and features timeless classics including Sweet Transvestite, Dammit Janet, and of course, the pelvic-thrusting, show-stopping Time Warp. Ages 12+

MON – THU 8PM, FRI & SAT 5.30PM & 8.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Mon

GROUPS Offers – £7 off per ticket for groups of 10+

Tue – Thu, £5 off per ticket for groups of 6+ Tue – Thu (Bookable online)

STUDENTS Offer – £25 Tue & Wed Eve

Celebrating 70 years, Agatha Christie’s

The Mousetrap is the world’s longest-running play. This thrilling West End production is the genre-defining murder mystery from the bestselling novelist of all time.

As news spreads of a murder in London, a group of strangers find themselves snowed in at a remote countryside guesthouse. When a police sergeant arrives, the guests discover that a killer is in their midst!

Ages 7+

TUE – SAT 7.30PM

WED & SAT MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Tue

GROUPS Offer – £5 off per ticket for groups of 8+

Tue – Thu

SCHOOLS Offer – £15 per ticket for groups of 10+ plus 1 free teacher ticket for every 10 students Tue – Thu

Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film, the Broadway and West End smash hit Shrek the Musical is a fun-filled and hilarious musical comedy.

Starring theatre extraordinaire Antony Lawrence (The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Matilda the Musical) as Shrek, Joanne Clifton (Strictly Come Dancing, The Addams Family) as the beloved Princess Fiona, Olivier Award-nominated James Gillan (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie) as the evil Lord Farquaad, and theatre favourite Brandon Lee Sears (Dreamgirls, Come From Away, Motown) as the loveable Donkey

TUE – SAT 7.30PM

WED & SAT MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Tue

GROUPS Offer – £5 off per ticket for groups of 8+ Tue – Thu

STUDENTS Offer – £25 Tue – Thu

‘JOYOUS. THE MOST FUN YOU’LL EVER HAVE IN A THEATRE.’

DAILY MIRROR

DISNEY’S SPECTACULAR WEST END MUSICAL

Disney’s much-loved animated film is brought to life on stage in a thrilling and dazzling new musical from the producer of The Lion King.

Escape to A Whole New World and experience this extraordinary theatrical event seen by over 14 million people worldwide.

Featuring the iconic songs by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice – this unforgettable production is filled with magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite.

WED – SAT 7.30PM, SUN 1PM & 6PM

WED, SAT, THU 22 FEB & FRI 8 MAR MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £20

GROUPS Offer – £5 off per ticket for groups of 10+ Wed –Fri & Sun 6pm (Excl. Wed 21 – Sun 25 Feb 2024)

SCHOOLS Offer – £19.50 per ticket for groups of 10+ plus 1 free teacher ticket for every 10 students Wed, Thu & Fri 2.30pm (Excl. Wed 21 & Thu 22 Feb 2024)

AUDIO DESCRIBED Wed 6 Mar 2024 7.30pm

BSL INTERPRETED Wed 6 Mar 2024 7.30pm

RELAXED Thu 7 Mar 2024 6.30pm

CAPTIONED Fri 8 Mar 2024 7.30pm

E SCAPE TO AWHOLE NEW WORLD

BOOK AS A GROUP FOR SAVINGS AND PERKS!

Make amazing savings when you book together as a group to watch your favourite shows. With offers for groups as small as six, gather your friends, family, colleagues, classmates or teachers and start enjoying wonderful perks; it makes ticket-buying sense!

There’s a range of benefits to booking as a group, here are just a few...

BESPOKE SERVICE DISCOUNTED TICKETS

RESERVE NOW, PAY LATER

To find out more, or to book for your group, you can call our dedicated groups team on 0207 206 1174 (Local call rate), visit atgtickets.com/groups or email groupsales@atgtickets.com

SIGN UP TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR FANTASTIC GROUPS OFFERS!

Scan to sign up or visit atgtix.co/signupgroups

Beauty

Cursed by a wicked fairy, a beautiful princess pricks her finger and falls into a deep sleep that can only be broken by true love’s kiss. The Sleeping Beauty sprinkles magic on this favourite fairy tale, wrapping it up with sparkling dance from Birmingham Royal Ballet’s brilliant dancers, a dazzling spectacle, and Tchaikovsky’s glorious music played by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia.

This beautiful production was created by Sir Peter Wright, the genius behind the company’s The Nutcracker and Swan Lake. An enchanting experience for all.

THU & FRI 7.30PM

FRI & SAT MATS 2PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Thu

GROUPS Offer – £5 off per ticket for groups of 10+ Thu & Fri

UNDER 16s Offer – Half price Thu & Fri

‘HIT AFTER HIT IN THIS SENSATIONAL SHOW.’

SMOOTH RADIO

Nominated for Best New Musical at the 2022 Olivier Awards, this smash hit show has a phenomenal soundtrack packed full of iconic Drifters’ hits, including Saturday Night At The Movies, Save The Last Dance For Me and Stand By Me.

Discover the remarkable story of The Drifters and the truth about the woman who made them. From the highs of hit records to the lows of legal battles and personal tragedy, Faye Treadwell is the legendary manager of The Drifters who refused to give up on the group she loved.

★★★★ ‘A GREAT NIGHT OUT.’ – Daily Express

★★★★ ‘JOYFUL.’ – Daily Mail

TUE – SAT 7.30PM

WED, THU & SAT MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Tue

GROUPS Offer – £7 off per ticket for groups of 10+ Wed & Thu

SENIORS Offer – £10 off Wed & Thu

When Stella sets off to visit London with her parents, she has no idea her life is in danger! When Stella wakes up three months later, only her Aunt Alberta can tell her what has happened. But not everything Alberta tells her turns out to be true and Stella quickly discovers she’s in for the fight of her life against her very own awful Auntie!

Don’t miss this hilarious family treat from David Walliams and the Olivier Award-nominated team behind the acclaimed stage hits Gangsta Granny, Billionaire Boy and Demon Dentist!

THU – SAT 2.30PM & 6.30PM, SUN 11AM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Thu Eve

SCHOOLS & YOUTH GROUPS Offer – £12.50 per ticket for groups of 10+ plus 1 free teacher ticket for every 10 purchased Thu & Fri 2.30pm

PERFECT EASTER FAMILY FUN WITH FANTASTIC OFFERS AVAILABLE

Hollywood’s ultimate rom-com is now ‘A DAZZLING STAGE SHOW.’ (Daily Express). Make a date to see Pretty Woman: The Musical live on stage in Sunderland, starring Amber Davies, Oliver Savile and Ore Oduba.

Direct from the West End, this smash hit musical features a blazing rock score by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, direction and choreography by Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray, Kinky Boots) and all the iconic moments from the movie!

The perfect show for both dates and mates, this feel-good love story for the ages guarantees a big night out. Big. Huge! Ages 12+

TUE – SAT 7.30PM

WED, SAT, SUN 2 & THU 6 JUN MATS 2.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £10 off Tue 28 May

GROUPS Offer – £7.50 off per ticket for groups 10+ Mon – Thu

SENIORS Offer – £7.50 off Wed & Thu 2.30pm

JON RICHARDSON THE KNITWIT

Will the recycling be put out on the right day? Who is going to smooth over the top of the margarine? Watch Jon pretend that these aren’t his foremost concerns as he leaves home on his first tour since the last one. Ages 14+.

SAT 28 OCT 8PM

TICKETS FROM £27.42

ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

THE SENSATIONAL 60s EXPERIENCE

Join us for this festival of nostalgia. The show will transport you back to that magical decade that was the 1960’s. Hits include The Legend Of Xanadu, Storm In A Teacup, Hippy Hippy Shake, Everlasting Love, Hitchin A Ride.

SUN 19 NOV 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £30

ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN

Gary Mullen & The Works have performed worldwide, playing more than 2,500 shows in over 20 countries. So if you’re ready to rock ‘n’ roll, don’t miss your chance to celebrate One Night Of Queen! The show does go on!

SAT 16 SEP 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £13 ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

FASTLOVE THE TRIBUTE TO GEORGE MICHAEL

Direct from London’s West End, this is the world’s favourite George Michael celebration! This one is for the fans: Wake Me Up, Too Funky, Father Figure, Freedom, Faith, Knew You Were Waiting, Careless Whisper and many more.

SUN 17 SEP 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £26 ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

LOST IN MUSIC ONE NIGHT AT THE DISCO

Join us as we recreate the magical 70s and let us take you on a musical journey straight to the heart of disco! It’s the feel-good show of the year! Lose yourself with us and leave your troubles at home!

THU 12 OCT 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £25 ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

THE BOOTLEG BEATLES

Regarded the world over as being the Gold standard of tribute, The Bootleg Beatles return this October for another nostalgic trip through the sixties. With a little help from their orchestral ensemble, this magical multi-media show is a must-see for Beatles fans of all ages.

SUN 15 OCT 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £34.38 ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

SING-A-LONG-A ENCANTO

Gather la Familia! Sing your heart out with our live host, who will teach you some dance moves, help you create some magic and show you how to use your free interactive props bag. And remember, we don’t talk about Bruno, no, no, no! Ages 4+

SUN 29 OCT 2PM | TICKETS FROM £18.25

UNDER 16s Offer – £2 off

SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK THE ROD STEWART STORY

Endorsed by Rod’s family, Some Guys Have All The Luck is back! Direct from the West End, the show brings to the stage an incredible live concert celebrating one of rock music’s most influential icons.

FRI 5 JAN 2024 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £27 ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

THE NIGHT SKY SHOW

A visually spectacular theatrical experience for all. A journey around the constellations, stars, planets and more. With entertaining tours, stories and the endless possibilities of our future with the night sky and beyond. Mind-blowing!

SAT 6 JAN 2024 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £24 ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

FLEETWOOD MAC BY CANDLELIGHT

With a cast of West End singers and a live band, featuring Fleetwood Mac hits as you have never heard them before! So Go Your Own Way, release your inner Gypsy and book your tickets now.

WED 24 JAN 2024 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £31.75 ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

JURASSIC LIVE

Direct from London’s West End, see our life-sized, monstrous beasts up close in this award-winning, all-star musical spectacular. Exclusively featuring the world’s only Mosasaur, the world’s last flying Pterodactyl and more dinosaur species than any other show on Earth!

FRI 26 JAN 2024 5PM, SAT 27 JAN 2024 12PM & 5PM | TICKETS FROM £13 UNDER 16s Offer – £5 off

ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS

Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist, Lee ‘Memphis’ King, faithfully recreates the iconic ‘Vegas years’ in this lavish production. Featuring authentic costumes, large screen projection and full live band, this is the largest Elvis show to tour the UK and international theatres.

SUN 28 JAN 2024 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £26 ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Our 1907 Corporate Club gives your business a unique way of reaching out to potential new customers, while showcasing your support for your local theatre.

Whether you’re looking to raise your business’ profile, impress clients with a VIP visit to the theatre they won’t forget, or treat your staff to a wonderful evening of entertainment, look no further than our 1907 Corporate Club.

We have corporate memberships starting from as little as £199, with some fantastic benefits including:

Generous theatre ticket allocation per year

Regular special ticket offers to share with your staff

Exclusive corporate hospitality packages

Brand presence within our What’s On guide and throughout the venue

For more details email our Sales and Development Manager at PaulaMitchell@theambassadors.com

A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

SCAN THE QR CODE TO SIGN UP FOR ON SALE INFORMATION AND EXCLUSIVE PRIORITY BOOKING! OR GO TO ATGTIX.CO/HAMILTON

LEARN. CREATE. PERFORM. ENJOY.

Creative Learning provides enriching and unforgettable experiences for our local community, schools and audiences.

PUBLIC TOURS

Our exciting tours are full to the brim with interesting facts and tales of the stars who have performed on our impressive stage – you may even hear a ghost story or two!

SELECTED SATURDAYS

11am | Duration 1.5 hrs £8.50 per person

For current dates visit ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

Delivered by our team of industry professionals at Sunderland Empire, our academy focuses on developing skills in the three key musical theatre disciplines: acting, singing and dance.

JUNIORS & SENIORS

SUNDAYS 10am – 1pm (During term time)

Ages 6 – 18 | £17.50 per week (Paid termly) Places are limited. Please contact us to register your interest and we will be in touch to confirm your place.

RECRUITING NOW FOR SCHOOLS PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMME

Our Schools Partnership programme runs over an academic year and involves building long-term meaningful relationships with schools. Partner schools benefit from a creative programme of activities including curriculum-focused projects, workshops, exclusive ticket offers, theatre tours and much more! Costed on a sliding scale we can offer a package to suit the needs of your setting. Get in touch to receive an information pack and find out more.

WEEKLY GROUPS

We offer free taster sessions for our weekly groups. Please get in touch to register your interest.

CONNECT COMPANY

Theatre group for adults with learning disabilities. Develop a diverse range of theatre skills in a relaxed and supportive environment.

MONDAYS 10am – 3pm | Ages 18+

£80 per month

BRIGHT MINDS YOUTH THEATRE

A vibrant and inclusive youth theatre for autistic young people who have a passion for the performing arts.

MONDAYS 4.30pm – 5.45pm | Ages 13 – 18

£30 per term

(Supported by Trust and Foundation funding)

MOVERS GROUP

An inclusive dance group for over 55s embracing the joy of movement, fitness and wellbeing in a welcoming environment.

THURSDAYS & FRIDAYS 10am – 12pm

£5.50 per session (Paid monthly)

For information or to book please email SunderlandCreativeLearning@ theambassadors.com or call 0191 566 1054 or visit ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

@sunderlandempirecreativelearning sundempire sunderland_empire

PILLARS STANDING POSITION SEATING RESTRICTED OR LIMITED VIEW

VENUE GUIDES STANDING WITH RESTRICTED VIEW RESTRICTED VIEW AND RESTRICTED LEG ROOM

BOXES (SOLD IN 4s) ACCESSIBILITY AND WHEELCHAIR ALLOCATION RESTRICTED LEG ROOM

For more shows please look through your What’s On guide or visit ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland

I Should Be So Lucky

MON 22 – SAT 27 APR

It’s here. All the hit-factory songs you love from Stock Aitken Waterman –finally on stage in an all-new musical.

WHAT’S coming in 2024

From thrilling dramas to family favourites, here are a few highlights to look forward to…

Jesus Christ Superstar

TUE 11 – SAT 15 JUN

An album that inspired a revolution. A revelation that changed the world. A reinvention for this millennium.

James Bond Gala – Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

SUN 4 FEB

Join the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as they take you to double-0-heaven with this sensational James Bond concert!

Wicked

TUE 24 SEP – SUN 20 OCT

The spell-binding smash hit musical Wicked is flying back to Sunderland next September, guaranteed to stir up a storm.

2:22 A Ghost Story

TUE 21 – SAT 25 MAY

A brilliantly funny and adrenalinefilled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear... What do you believe?

BUY YOUR TICKETS

ATGTICKETS.COM/Sunderland*

Groups & Schools: 0207 206 1174 Mon – Fri, 9am – 5.30pm

ATGTICKETS.COM/Groups

Box Office: Opens 90 minutes prior to a performance commencing on show days only. *Fees apply. Calls to 02 & 03 numbers are charged at standard geographic rate and included in any call plan minutes

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

@sunderlandempire

@sunderland_empire | @sundempire

FIND OUT MORE

We’re easy to find and Sunderland has plenty of parking spaces. See our website for directions, parking and hospitality packages.

Sunderland Empire, High Street West, Sunderland SR1 3EX

We are delighted to welcome you to our venue, where we want everyone to enjoy the show. With that in mind, we politely ask that you show consideration to your fellow audience members, who have come to enjoy the performances on-stage. We all have a part to play in making sure the theatre is a fantastic experience for all – you can help by ensuring the professionals on-stage are the only people entertaining us with their performances, and being kind to our dedicated staff, who are here to keep everyone safe. Anti-social behaviour towards our staff or other customers will not be tolerated.

TICKET PRICES

Based on the popularity of a performance and ticket availability, prices can change at any point during the show’s on-sale period. Due to the varying nature of our shows and their set design, we cannot guarantee an unrestricted view from all seats at all times. For the most up-to-date information please check online, call or visit our Box Office.

ATG TheatreCard, group ticket prices and any special offers or concessions, are subject to availability and can change or be withdrawn at any time. Family tickets are for 4 people with a maximum of 2 adults. ATG TheatreCard offers are for a maximum of 4 tickets per card. All discounts and concessions apply to selected seats, prices and performances.

atgtickets.com/theatre-card-terms-and-conditions

CHILDREN

No children under 5 admitted to venue except where stated at time of booking that the show is suitable for under 5s. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+ and supervised at all times. There must be 1 adult for every 10 children. Children under 18 months will only be admitted to shows they may attend (pantomimes and shows for under 5s only). Children (18 months – 15 years incl.) require full price tickets if no child concessions available at time of booking.

EQUAL ACCESS FOR EVERYONE

Full details of our Access services are available from atgtickets.com/access along with accessibility information for our venue atgtickets.com/sunderland

Register with our free Access Membership Scheme to book accessible seats online. Contact our Access Champion for accessibility advice via our website atgtickets.com/access/contact-us Or call our dedicated Access Assistance line 0333 009 5399*

For our D/deaf and hard of hearing customers our Type Talk number is 18001 0333 009 5399 *Calls to 02 & 03 numbers are charged at standard geographic rate and included in any call plan minutes.

We offer: Audio Described, BSL Interpreted, Captioned, Relaxed, & Touch Tours highlighted on show pages in this brochure and our online calendar.

This brochure is available as an accessible download from the venue page on our website, or contact us to request an alternative format.

CONDITIONS OF SALE

Our full terms and conditions are available online atgtickets.com/terms-and-conditions

INFORMATION ABOUT FEES

Up to £1.75 from each ticket sold is used for the upkeep and improvements to your theatre. We spend this wisely to give you the best experience possible, provide equal access for everyone and offer creative learning opportunities in local communities across the UK.

Additional fees may also apply where we sell tickets for non-ATG theatres, or for selected big name shows and performances. These additional fees may take the form of a per ticket booking fee and/or a one-off transaction fee. Please check our website for the most up-to-date ticket prices and fees.

The information in this brochure is correct at the time of going to press. We reserve the right to make alterations to the published programme of events, their prices, concessions, offers and fees.

SUSTAINABILITY

We work to continuously improve our environmental performance and find solutions that reduce environmental impact, therefore this brochure is printed on responsibly sourced paper. Please continue to help the environment by recycling or passing onto a friend.