The Sunderland Empire Theatre is set to dazzle audiences in 2025 with a stellar line-up of performances ranging from timeless classics to family favorites. From the spellbinding ballet of Cinderella by the Birmingham Royal Ballet to the stirring operatic tales of La Traviata and Madama Butterfly, Sunderland's stage will host a variety of genres. Not to be outdone, the musicals Tina and Hamilton promise electrifying performances, while Horrible Histories brings historical humor to life. Whether you are a fan of heartwarming musicals, historical dra-mas, or classic operas, Sunderland Empire has a spectacular show just for you.
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!
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.
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.
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
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!
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!
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!
Eight-time Tony and four-time Olivier Award-winning musical smash hit Hairspray spreads its toe-tapping magic across the UK once more during a hotly anticipated regional tour in 2024! Based on the 1988 feature film, the effervescent production first wowed audiences in Seattle in the early 2000s, with acclaimed Broadway and West End runs following soon after.
What's the story?
Ebullient songs like 'You Can't Stop The Beat', 'I Can Hear The Bells', and 'Good Morning Baltimore', punctuate a coming-of-age story as bold and big as its character's hairstyles. Curvy teenager Tracy Turnblad shakes up the status quo when she auditions for a regular spot on The Corny Collins Show and wins. Becoming an overnight sensation and relatable role model, she sees beyond the trendsetting and sets out on a path to bring racial integration to the popular variety show.
The most fantasmagorical stage musical in the history of everything takes off on a UK Tour in 2024, bringing with it an incredible theatrical experience the whole family will love. Directed by Thom Southerland, with design by Morgan Large and choreography from Karen Bruce.
Based on the beloved 1968 film and James Bond creator Ian Flemming's book of the same name, follow the eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts as he, his children, and Truly Scrumptious set out to outwit Baron Bombast and his terrifying child catcher. Featuring classic songs including Toot Suite and the titular Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, join the Potts family as they defy the Baron in a tale of magical flying cars, mechanical mayhem, and more!
It's the musical experience that bowled over Broadway, an all-out smash-hit epic that traverses the life of one Alexander Hamilton, one of America's Founding Fathers who took on the might of the British and won. Don't miss this musical behemoth as it comes to Manchester in November 2023!
In 2025, Sunderland Empire Theatre truly caters to diverse tastes with its exciting line-up of shows. Whether you're a ballet aficionado, an opera lover, or a musical theatre enthusiast, the coming year promises a wealth of entertainment. From historical tales to contemporary musicals, each performance promises to deliver unforgettable moments. Don't miss the chance to experience these captivating performances at Sunderland Empire, where every production is set to enrich the cultural landscape of the region.