Artelize - Sunderland Empire Unveils a Dazzling Lineup: From Calamity to Motown Magic
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Sunderland Empire Unveils a Dazzling Lineup: From Calamity to Motown Magic

Get ready for an unforgettable cultural journey at Sunderland Empire Theatre as it unveils a spectacular lineup of events for 2025. From the classic Western musical 'Calamity Jane' starring Carrie Hope Fletcher to Giovanni Pernice's electrifying dance showcase, each event promises a unique theatrical experience. Immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms of 'The Magic of Motown,' the elegance of Birmingham Royal Ballet's 'Cinderella,' and the dramatic operatic tales of 'La Traviata' and 'Madama Butterfly.' There's something for everyone in this vibrant mix of music, dance, history, and drama.

Jan 28, 2025
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1. Calamity Jane
Whip-Crack Away! Carrie Hope Fletcher is steppin' into Calamity Jane's cowgirl boots for this brand-new tour of the classic musical! A free-wheelin' musical set in the Wild West, the show follows the romance between frontierswoman Calamity and folk hero Wild Bill Hickock, as they work together to restore order to Deadwood City. Soundtracked by toe-tappin' musical numbers like 'It's Harry I'm Planning to Marry' and 'Secret Love', this is one hoedown you don't want to miss! Based on the Doris Day-starring musical of the same name from 1953, (which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song), and solidified Day's status as a Hollywood icon, this exciting new production comes from The Watermill Theatre and is directed by Nikolai Foster, co-directed and choreographed by Nick Winston and features musical supervision by Olivier, Grammy and Tony Award winner Catherine Jayes.
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4 - 8 Feb, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

2. Giovanni Pernice
Strictly champion and BAFTA winner Giovanni Pernice returns with his new tour bringing with him this all-new dancing spectacular titled 'The Last Dance'. Showcasing Pernice's magnificent talents, he'll yet again be joined by a dazzling cast of world-class dancers and West End performers for an unforgettable night of entertainment!
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Feb 19, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

3. The Magic of Motown
One of the UK's most successful theatre shows, The Magic of Motown, is back on the road for its 18th year! Celebrating the greatest music from the greatest performers of the Motown era, witness an evening of pure joy with this unmatched tribute to the legendary names who defined a generation.
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Feb 23, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

4. Birmingham Royal Ballet - Cinderella
The enchanting story of Cinderella heads on tour courtesy of the Birmingham Royal Ballet, taking their captivating production on the road! This delightful interpretation will delight audience members of all ages, with Prokofiev's legendary score serving as the backdrop to a stunning performance. Directed by Sir David Bintley, be sure not to miss this timeless ballet!
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13 - 15 Mar, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

5. La Traviata
Ellen Kent's production of Verdi's La Traviata for Opera International heads on tour around the UK, featuring a full orchestra and the supreme talents of the Ukranian Opera and Ballet Theatre Kyiv! A tragic love story that explores the suffocating constraints of polite society, the story is centered on the beautiful courtesan Violetta Valery, who sacrifices her reputation and wealth when she decides to move from Paris to the countryside with her lover Alfredo. First performed in 1853, La Traviata can be said to be Verdi's most intimate work, drawing on social issues that were contemporary to him at the time, and is now the most performed opera in the world. A gripping love story, the production is sung in Italian with English subtitles.
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Mar 17, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

6. Madama Butterfly
Experience the bittersweet wonder of Puccini's beloved masterpiece once more in this glorious production from esteemed director Ellen Kent. Back on tour in 2025 due to popular demand, it's a mesmerizing and sumptuous affair that highlights Puccini's greatest score with spectacular sets and costumes including a breathtaking Japanese garden. One of the most popular works in the repertoire, prepare to be swept up in the story of a young Japanese woman and her heartbreaking relationship with a dashing American Naval Officer.
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Mar 18, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

7. Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors
The award-winning Horrible Histories heads out on tour in 2025 with their newest show based on everyone's favourite HH book; Terrible Tudors! Leaning into their brand message of 'history with the nasty bits left in' this newest jaunt will tackle the infamous Tudor dynasty, from Henry VIII's punch-up with the pop and predilection for murdering his wives, to Evil Elizabeth and the madness of the Spanish Armada, this is history - but not as you know it!
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20 - 22 Mar, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

8. Horrible Histories: Awful Egyptians
The award-winning Horrible Histories return to the stage in February, taking their Awful Egyptians live show on tour around the country! Leaning into their brand message of 'history with the nasty bits left in', this show takes a look at the egregious escapades of the ancient Egyptians, from monstrous mummies to Pharoahs and pyramids! With special effects, live actors and a whole heap of horrible fun, this is history - but not as you know it
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20 - 22 Mar, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

9. Tina - The Tina Turner Musical
Everyone loves a biographical musical, and this one really is better than all the rest! Tina!, the phenomenal extravaganza based on the life of iconic songstress Tina Turner is taking to the road! Directed by Mamma Mia!'s Phyllida Lloyd, with a book by Katori Hall, the Olivier Award-nominated spectacular is the perfect night out for fans of The Queen and Rock and Roll. Get ready for an electrifying journey through Tina's life, with dazzling choreography, blazing soul, and a whole lotta love!
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Mar 26 - Apr 5, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

10. An Inspector Calls
Often referred to as the definitive staging of JB Priestley's drawing-room drama, this production from London's National Theatre is on tour this year - bringing the masterpiece to you. Debuting in 1992, this iteration has been seen all over the world, scooping awards with each revival. Original director Stephen Daldry (The Hours, Billy Elliot) returns for this jaunt, showcasing his innate understanding of the literary classic. Now starring Tim Treloar as Inspector Goole and Jackie Morrison as Mrs Birling!
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8 - 12 Apr, 2025
Sunderland Empire

Sunderland · Sunderland Empire Theatre

Conclusion
Sunderland Empire Theatre's 2025 lineup is a celebration of artistic diversity and excellence. From classic musicals and operas to vibrant dance performances and engaging historical tales, the theatre is poised to offer a rich tapestry of experiences. Each event promises to immerse audiences in its unique world, whether through the allure of the Wild West, the elegance of ballet, or the electric energy of Motown. As the curtain rises, Sunderland welcomes all to partake in this exceptional journey through the arts.
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