News: Newcastle Theatre Royal Open Day

OUR STAGE, YOUR THEATRE: 

DISCOVER THE MAGIC BEHIND THE CURTAIN AT 

NEWCASTLE THEATRE ROYAL’S OPEN DAY

Newcastle Theatre Royal is opening its doors to the public for a special Open Day on Thursday 17 April 2025, between 10am – 3pm. Theatre lovers and visitors of all ages are invited to explore the stunning venue, meet the team, and be inspired by the creative arts programmes on offer.

Taking place on Thursday 17 April from 10am-3pm, the free event includes an exciting line-up of activities that offer something for everyone. This will be the first time the 1,247-seater Matcham Theatre has welcomed walk-in visitors since the Coronavirus pandemic and is part of moves to make the building open to more people more of the time.

Newcastle Theatre Royal Chief Executive Marianne Locatori added: “We’re proud to create moments of magic that last a lifetime through our ambitious creative programme of world-class shows and far-reaching Creative Engagement schedule.

We’re particularly excited to welcome members of the public so guests can explore behind the scenes and experience the magic that happens inside our iconic and historic building.”

On Thursday 17 April visitors can enjoy: 

 Theatre Tours – Ever wondered what goes on behind the curtain? Join an expert-led tour and explore the hidden corners of the theatre, from the grand auditorium to the backstage areas where skilled technicians help bring shows to life. These are pre-bookable online or join a queue on the day. Tours last 30 minutes.

 Immersive Fantasy Creatures Experience – Children from Schools in the West End of Newcastle have been working with Newcastle Theatre Royal to imagine what magical creatures could live in the streets, recreation grounds and landmarks near their homes and schools. They come to life in specially recorded interviews, enlightening artwork and scene-setting photography- all set against a specially compiled soundscape in the Theatre Royal’s Studio.

 History Talks: Embark on a fascinating journey through the Theatre Royal's rich history, from its origins in 1837 to the present day. Learn about Frank Matcham's iconic redesign, legendary performances, and the famous actors who have graced our stage. Enjoy access to archive materials and participate in a Q&A session at the end. Book your place online or join the queue on the day. Talks last 1 hour.

 Adult Acting Workshop: Unleash Your Inner Actor in an hour-long acting workshop in the Theatre Royal's rehearsal room. This taster session offers a glimpse into our Adult Ensemble classes, where you'll explore text and discover how to bring performances to life. Develop your confidence and public speaking skills while delving into the practical and theoretical aspects of acting. Pre-book online or join the queue on the day. Workshops last 1 hour.

 Stage Management Demonstration: Learn how our technicians use sound, lighting, sets and props to build the drama for our visiting shows and exciting co-productions across all genres – drama, musicals, dance, opera and our annual family pantomime.

 Craft Workshops: Get creative at our fun, family-friendly craft stations, where you can make your own masks, design your own badges and decorate your own theatre-themed tote bag to take home as a souvenir.

 Egg hunt: Explore the theatre in search of eggs laid by the fantastic creatures of the West End.

 Relax and recharge: Refreshments can be enjoyed alongside live music played by a professional pianist in the Grand Circle bar. Or try out the theatre’s own coffee and wine bar 100 Grey Street where fresh Baristocracy coffee, exquisite wines from Eden Fine Wines, and fresh cakes and pastries from Pink Lane Bakery will be on sale.

Head of Creative Engagement Kim Hoffmann said: “We have an extensive Creative Engagement programme at Theatre Royal, with activities for everyone to take part in. We’re delighted to open our doors to anyone who wants to find out more about what we do. This is a fantastic opportunity for families, theatre enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the arts to engage with Newcastle Theatre Royal in a new and exciting way. Whether you’re a seasoned theatregoer or visiting for the first time, there’s something to inspire everyone.”

Newcastle Theatre Royal’s Open Day is on Thursday 17 April from 10am to 3pm. The building will be open from 9.30am for people who prefer a more sensory-friendly and less overwhelming experience.

The event is free to enter, and no booking is required. Tours are not suitable for wheelchair users or people with limited mobility, but the auditorium, bars, talks, workshops and crafts can be accessed via lifts.

Tickets:

Events can be booked at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.

Preview: 2:22 - A Ghost Story at Sunderland Empire

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Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton to appear in supernatural thriller 2:22 - A Ghost Story

2:22 - A Ghost Story

Sunderland Empire

Monday 8 – Saturday 13 September 2025.

 

Runaway Entertainment have announced that Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton will star in the critically acclaimed, smash hit, supernatural thriller 2:22 - A Ghost Story on an extensive UK-wide tour, visiting Sunderland Empire from Monday 8 – Saturday 13 September 2025.

 

Returning to the role of Jenny following a limited run at the Gielgud Theatre in 2024, Stacey Dooley will perform alongside her partner Kevin Clifton who will play Jenny’s husband, Sam. The remaining cast members for the first half of the tour is due to be announced soon. This will be the first time in the history of the play that a ‘real life’ couple will take on the roles of Jenny and Sam in the production.

 

Kevin Clifton said: ‘I’m such a huge fan of 2:22 as a play. I have seen it a number of times and I’ve wanted to play Sam for ages! It’s superbly written, clever, funny and thought provoking whilst always maintaining a danger that kept me on the edge of my seat. When Stacey did the west end run, I thought she was brilliant and just wanted to be up there with her. Me and Stace playing a couple with a new baby in a new house could not be more perfect! I’m really excited!’

Kevin Clifton and Stacey Dooley 
Photo: Seamus Ryan

 

Stacey Dooley added: ‘THRILLED to be slipping back into Jenny’s slippers! Truly. I had such a magic few months with 2:22 last year, I couldn’t be more excited to bring this incredibly clever show on the road! And with my Kev! Total dream, come see us! S x’

 

2:22 - A Ghost Story’s phenomenal success includes three years in the West End over seven seasons. There have been twelve replica productions worldwide and the show has been seen by over 1 million people in seventeen different countries across 5 continents.

 

In 2023/24 2:22 - A Ghost Story embarked on its first extensive, hugely successful UK tour. For 2025/26 the production is back on the road revisiting some cities due to popular demand and is also visiting new places where audiences can enjoy the thrill the show delivers for the very first time!

 

The production began its life in the summer of 2021 at the Noel Coward Theatre, starring Lily Allen, Julia Chan, Hadley Fraser and Jake Wood, and where it won the WhatsOnStage award for Best Play. It then transferred to the Gielgud Theatre for 10 weeks from 4 December 2021. The production there starring Stephanie Beatriz, James Buckley, Elliot Cowan and Giovanna Fletcher completed its run on 12 February 2022. For the first season at the Criterion (May - September 2022) the cast was Tom Felton, Mandip Gill, Sam Swainsbury and Beatriz Romilly. In late September that year Laura Whitmore, Matt Willis, Felix Scott and Tamsin Carroll took over. At The Lyric Theatre from January - April 2023 the cast included Cheryl, Scott Karim, Louise Ford and the return of Jake Wood. The production then moved next door to the Apollo where the cast included Sophia Bush, Ricky Champ, Clifford Samuel and Jamie Winstone. Frankie Bridge took over from Sophia Bush in July of that year. Then in May - August 2024 the show returned to the Gielgud Theatre with Donna Air, James Buckley, aforementioned Stacey Dooley and Joe McFadden.

 

For its first UK tour the 2023 cast featured Joe Absolom, Charlene Boyd, Nathaniel Curtis and Louisa Lytton and the second leg in 2024 saw Vera Chok, Jay McGuiness, George Rainsford and Fiona Wade take up the roles. In summer 2024 a run at the 3Olympia Theatre in Dublin Ireland tour featured the return of Laura Whitmore (this time playing Lauren) with Shona McGarty, Jay McGuiness, and Colin O’Donoghue.

 

2:22 is written by award-winning writer Danny Robins, creator of the hit BBC podcast and TV series Uncanny, and is directed by Matthew Dunster; it’s an adrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear…

 

What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?

 

“THERE’S SOMETHING IN OUR HOUSE. I HEAR IT EVERY NIGHT, AT THE SAME TIME"

 

Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but her husband Sam isn’t having any of it. They argue with their first dinner guests, old friend Lauren and new partner Ben. Can the dead really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, but something feels strange and frightening, and that something is getting closer, so they’re going to stay up... until 2:22... and then they’ll know.

 

“A slick, chilling, romp of a play” The Guardian

“A modern classic” Sunday Times

 

2:22 - A Ghost Story features set design by Anna Fleischle, costume design by Cindy Lin, lighting design by Lucy Carter, sound by Ian Dickinson for Autograph Sound and illusions by Chris Fisher. 2:22 - A Ghost Story is produced by Tristan Baker and Charlie Parsons for Runaway Entertainment, Isobel David and Kater Gordon.  

Tickets:

2:22 - A Ghost Story will bring chills to Sunderland Empire’s stage from Monday 8 – Saturday 13 September 2025. Tickets on sale online now at ATGTickets.com/ Sunderland *

* A £3.95 transaction fee may apply to online bookings.

REVIEW: Tina – The Tina Turner Musical at Sunderland Empire

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical 

Sunderland Empire

Until Saturday 5 April 2025

The vibrant and soul-stirring Tina – The Tina Turner Musical has arrived in Sunderland. As part of its inaugural UK and Ireland tour, the show takes over the Sunderland Empire until Saturday, April 5th, 2025, delivering an unforgettable, high-energy tribute to one of music’s most iconic figures. If you’ve ever felt the empowering magic of Tina Turner’s music, this production will leave you inspired.

It is the case the jukebox musicals about a single musical act tend to go one of three ways: Sticking to the story of the act (eg Buddy); just making the show a dance and singing tribute (eg Thriller); or just starting the story in the first act before giving up and just having a concert in act 2 (eg. Jersey Boys). This show follows the tread laid by the 1993 movie What's Love Got To Do With It and gives the turbulent life behind the successful career of the lady born as Anna Mae Bullock.   

Thus this Tina Turner musical is not merely a concert celebrating a legendary artist; it’s a powerful, emotional rollercoaster that traces the life and career of Tina Turner from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her rise as an international superstar. The production beautifully captures the personal and professional struggles she faced, showcasing the trials, triumphs, and sheer resilience that made Tina Turner a symbol of strength and perseverance.

The early years of singing too loud in church, much to the annoyance of her mother, introduces us to local actor Chizaram Ochuba-Okafor who plays Young Anna Mae Bullock with real enthusiasm. It was a pleasure to see her in the later stages, complete with a duet with the later Tina. This young actor is definitely one to watch for the future. It is also worth noting the audience reaction (an audible gasp) when Anna Mae's mother, Zelma (Letitia Hector) was first struck by her abusive preacher Dad Richard (Rushand Chambers). It was an early sign into the emotional investment that the audience were putting into the show. It is a relief when Tina moves in with her Gran Georgeanna (Claude East). 

The musical dives deep into the defining moments of Tina’s life, including her tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner and her eventual transformation into the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The blend of her triumphant return to the stage after escaping years of hardship and the infectious energy of her performances adds depth to a narrative we all thought we knew. However, it’s not just about Tina’s hardships — it’s about her ultimate triumph, resilience, and the transformative power of music.

At the heart of this production is the role of Tina Turner, and the show truly shines. The role is shared between Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi and Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy. On press night we had the delightful Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi. From her vocal power to her infectious stage presence, she commanded the stage with confidence, grace, and raw energy. N’Zuzi’s portrayal is nothing short of captivating — she brings an intensity and emotional depth to the role that echoes the fire that Tina herself embodied throughout her career. 

The chemistry between Tina and their supporting cast members creates a cohesive, powerful experience that makes the audience feel as if they’re not just watching a musical — they’re witnessing Tina Turner’s legacy unfold right before their eyes.

No production of Tina would be complete without the presence of Ike Turner, and David King-Yombo's portrayal of the infamous figure is masterful. While the role of Ike is undeniably complex, King-Yombo’s performance adds nuance to what could easily have been a one-dimensional villain. His portrayal is magnetic and chilling, capturing both the charisma and cruelty that defined Ike’s relationship with Tina. It’s a testament to King-Yombo’s acting chops that he can elicit both disdain and sympathy in equal measure, underscoring the complexity of their dynamic. There was an almost panto like reaction at the curtain call which is a show of how the audience had engaged with him.

The musical numbers are the true heartbeat of this production, and the audience is treated to a showcase of Tina Turner’s iconic hits. From What’s Love Got To Do With It to Proud Mary, the show delivers a potent mix of Tina’s greatest songs, all performed live by the incredibly talented ensemble. The choreography, blending elements of rock ‘n’ roll with Tina’s unmistakable style, is a visual feast that gets the audience moving in their seats.

Of course, no Tina Turner tribute would be complete without her signature costumes, designed by Mark Thompson, and this show delivers in spades. The glittering dresses, thigh-high boots, and feathered ensembles capture the glamour and flair of Tina’s stage presence. The stunning costumes are matched by a set design that evolves seamlessly to mirror the various stages of Tina’s life, creating a stage world that feels as bold and dynamic as the woman herself. Lighting and projections are used to excellent effect, enhancing the atmosphere and bringing the world of Tina Turner to life in vivid colour.

In addition to the power of the music and costumes, the production excels in its portrayal of Tina Turner’s indomitable spirit. It’s a celebration not just of the music that made her a household name, but of her personal resilience and fierce determination. The show is a testament to the universal message of overcoming adversity and finding strength in one’s self, making it a production that resonates on a deeply human level.

The Sunderland Empire has proven to be the perfect venue for this fabulous musical. The space allows the audience to connect with the performers, creating an energy that’s electric and unforgettable. Whether you’ve been a fan of Tina Turner for decades or you’re just now discovering the magic of her music, this production is worth a visit to Wearside.

In short, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical is a dazzling, exhilarating celebration of one of music’s greatest legends. With sensational performances, stunning costumes, and a soundtrack that will have you humming for days, this is a musical that will make you stand up, sing, and feel empowered in ways you never expected. Tina Turner’s legacy is alive and well in this unforgettable production, which is possibly the best biographical jukebox musical about a music act.

Review: Stephen Oliver

Photos: Johan Persson

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Tickets:

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical will hit Sunderland Empire’s stage from Wednesday 26 March – Saturday 5 April 2025. Tickets available online now at ATGTickets.com/ Sunderland*

* A £3.95 transaction fee may apply to online bookings. 

REVIEW: Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake the Next Generation Theatre Royal Newcastle

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake the Next Generation

Theatre Royal Newcastle

Until Saturday 5 April 2025

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake changed the landscape of ballet when it was first staged in 1995. Bourne’s masterstroke of reimagining the swans as male and his clever updating of the story created a cultural phenomenon that has swept all before it. In its 30 th year, it feels as fresh and vibrant as ever, a thrilling evening of genre-defying dance entertainment.

Nobody was quite prepared for Matthew Bourne’s reimagining of, perhaps, the most iconic of classical ballets. Since its premiere in 1877, it had been constantly revived and reinvented, but nobody had envisaged replacing the poetic and lyrical corps of female swans with male dancers. Bourne, of course is not just an imaginative and highly skilled choreographer, he is also a bold and inspired director, and his vision has been enthusiastically received across the world. The image of the male swans in Lez Brotherston’s terrific costumes has become an icon of dance in the modern era, and with good reason.

The narrative centres on a young and insecure prince, denied affection by his aloof mother, who is uneasy and isolated in his ceremonial role. He is pursued by a glamorous, but inept, society girl – clad, of course, in Barbie pink – but is insecure in his sexuality. After a disastrous, drunken venture out into fashionable disco society, where he is trapped into newspaper notoriety by his mother’s scheming private secretary, he contemplates suicide on the banks of the lake.

A flock of swans appears at the critical moment, led at this performance by Jackson Fisch. He is captivated by them and falls under the spell of their leader, repenting of his wish to end it all.

This is followed by a royal ball, where a charismatic stranger appears and effortlessly seduces all the eligible females, including the queen. Sensing the relationship between the stranger and the swan, the prince watches with growing distress until, finally, the stranger dances alone with him. He brings him to a high emotional pitch before apparently spurning him in favour of his mother. The Prince’s jealousy drives him to drastic action and tragedy inevitably ensues.

Bourne’s choreography is inventive and surprising throughout. Make no mistake, the story may have been modernised, but the dance idiom is still, emphatically, classical ballet. The swans are realised through sinewy, masculine movements, atavistic and exciting. Their clever arm shapings are magical in evoking the birds they represent.

Fisch brings a sultry, persuasive bad-boy charisma to both characterisations, tempered by moments of tenderness and a hint of vulnerability. He is commanding even amongst the rumbustious corps of swans and exquisite in the pas de deux with Stephen Murray’s tortured prince. Strong and athletic, seeming at times to hang in the air, his dancing is magnetic. Murray brings a different vulnerability and emotional energy, employing his flawless technique in a contrasting style so that despite his efforts to mimic the swan, he always seems tragically constrained by his inflexible human nature.

Nicole Kabera’s queen is imperious, icily sexy and dripping with Hollywood glamour, always framed, rather than overwhelmed, by Brotherston’s fabulous gowns. Bryony Wood balances comedy, real emotion and characterful dancing in a superb performance as the hapless girlfriend. Cameron Flynn is appropriately pompous and stiff as the private secretary.

The rest of the company match them in great style, effortlessly adapting from boisterous swans to brisk soldiers or from prim maids to vampish debutantes.

The whole production is fabulously stylish, slickly comparing the corrupt mores of supposedly polite society with the savagery of nature. I have made mention of the costumes but Brotherston’s imposing, impressionistic scenery contributes equally to stimulating both the eye and the emotions.

Through his company, New Adventures, Bourne has an extensive programme of training and developing dancers and, impressively, 56% of this company has taken part in one of these development schemes. Perhaps there were one or two technical inconsistencies with some younger dancers, but the quality of this company stands as a ringing endorsement of those training opportunities.

In short, this terrific production feels as new and relevant as ever. It thrills and engages throughout, delivering the highest standards of dance and entertainment. The standing ovation from a normally reticent ballet audience was richly deserved. 

Review: Jonathan Cash

Photos: Johan Persson

Tickets:

Tickets available from https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/matthew-bournes-swan-lake/

Preview: Goodnight Mister Tom at Newcastle People's Theatre

Next week at the People’s Theatre in Heaton, Michelle Magorian’s much-loved classic Goodnight Mister Tom.

 

Goodnight Mister Tom

Newcastle People's Theatre

Tuesday 1 – Saturday 5 April 2025

Adapted by David Wood from the novel by Michelle Magorian

As World War Two looms, young William Beech is evacuated to the English countryside to stay with elderly recluse Tom Oakley. This unlikely pairing gradually form a friendship, finding that neither are how they first seem.

Since its publication in 1981, Michelle Magorian's hugely successful first novel Goodnight Mister Tom has sold millions of copies and been translated into multiple languages, as well as being adapted for television starring the late John Thaw.

Dexter White (William) & Keith Wigham (Tom)
Photo: Charlotte Smith

This stage adaptation by David Wood premiered at the Chichester Festival Theatre in 2011, and went on to win the 2013 Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and Family.

Wood has a hugely successful track record in adapting children’s novels for the stage, his credits including Babe The Sheep Pig, The BFG and The Witches.

In this production at the People’s Theatre, young local actors Dexter White and Nathaniel Campbell are role-sharing the demanding leading role of eight-year-old evacuee William. William is timid and anxious when he first arrives in the village of Little Weirwold, but his friendship with gruff-but-kind Tom (Keith Wigham) helps him to feel safer, and come out of his shell. Life seems perfect until William’s mother devastatingly summons him back to London.

Mister Tom (Keith Wigham) with Nathaniel and Dexter as William in rehearsals
Photo: Charlotte Smith

A testament to the enduring power of kindness, compassion and love, Magorian’s Goodnight Mister Tom has resonated with readers for over 40 years, and this is an opportunity to see this much-loved tale and its characters brought to life on stage.

Tickets:

Tickets are available from the People’s Theatre Box Office on 0191 265 5020 (option 2) and online at www.peoplestheatre.co.uk

Preview: Sunny Afternoon at Sunderland Empire

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Kink’s musical Sunny Afternoon returns to Sunderland Empire in November 

Sunny Afternoon 

Sunderland Empire 

Tuesday 4 - Saturday 8 November 2025

Sonia Friedman Productions and ATG Productions are delighted to announce that the multi Olivier Award-winning hit musical Sunny Afternoon will return for a 2025/2026 UK tour visiting Sunderland Empire from Tuesday 4 to Saturday 8 November 2025. Casting will be be announced soon. 

Ray Davies explained, “In these times of political uncertainties, it is a relief to know that Sunny Afternoon is on the horizon to lift our spirits”. 

 Photo: Kevin Cummins

Producer Sonia Friedman added, “From the moment Ray Davies, Joe Penhall, Ed Hall, and I began developing this musical, I knew it was something extremely special, and it proved to be so as we opened to rave reviews and won many awards. Now, I’m thrilled that we’re bringing back our joyous, celebratory, Olivier Award-winning Best New Musical for a new UK tour. Ray Davies’ music and lyrics capture the poetry and poignancy of everyday life with honesty and wit, and The Kinks’ music, attitude and vibe shaped a generation. Their astonishing legacy continues to resonate, making Sunny Afternoon as exhilarating and relevant today as ever. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or experiencing it all over again, I can’t wait for audiences across the UK to see it — I’ve truly missed it.”

The North East Theatre Guide saw the show back in 2016 and we said “Sunny Afternoon is a celebration of one of the great 60s British bands that captured the spirit of the times. Great songs and faithful storyline add together to create a musical to cherish.” REVIEW LINK

Sunny Afternoon celebrates the raw energy, passion and timeless sound of one of Britain’s most iconic bands, The Kinks. Charting the euphoric highs and agonising lows, it tells their story through an incredible back catalogue of chart-toppers, including “You Really Got Me,” “Lola,” and “All Day and All of the Night.” 

 Photo: Kevin Cummins

Sunny Afternoon was the recipient of four Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical and Outstanding Achievement in Music for Ray Davies

Set against the backdrop of Britain on the cusp of the rebellious '60s, Sunny Afternoon  is an exhilarating and moving celebration of the music, life, and the band that changed it all. 

Following a sell-out run at Hampstead Theatre, Sunny Afternoon opened to critical acclaim at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London’s West End where it ran for two years ahead of its sensational sell-out tour of the UK and Ireland throughout 2016/17.

 Photo: Kevin Cummins

Sunny Afternoon has music and lyrics by Ray Davies with a book by Joe Penhall and original story by Ray Davies. It is directed by Edward Hall and designed by Miriam Buether with choreography by Adam Cooper. Lighting design is by Rick Fisher with sound design by Matt McKenzie. Musical and vocal adaptations are by Ray Davies and Elliott Ware based on original Kinks’ recordings. 

On The Web: www.thekinksmusical.com/uktour

 

Tickets:

Sunny Afternoon will hit Sunderland Empire’s stage from Tuesday 4 – Saturday 8 November 2025. General ticket on sale Friday 28 March at 10am at ATGTickets.com/ Sunderland *

* A £3.95 transaction fee may apply to online bookings.