Welcome to SUNDERLAND EMPIRE
An unforgettable theatre experience awaits you!
2025 is off to a spectacular start in Sunderland, and with show-stoppers like TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, An Inspector Calls, followed by the phenomenal Hamilton arriving this summer, the stage is set for an incredible season ahead.
With blockbuster productions come even more opportunities to elevate your visit with our premium hospitality experiences. Whether you’re looking to indulge in luxury with champagne and antipasti on arrival, enjoy a family-friendly package perfect for little theatre lovers, or impress clients with a seamless corporate entertainment experience, we have something for every occasion. Our two spacious lounges, including the brand new 1907 Suite, offer the perfect setting for groups of all sizes.
Why not start your evening with a delicious pre-show meal at Pizza al Teatro, our in-theatre pizzeria? Savour freshly made artisan pizzas, delicious salads and sweet treats, all designed to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the magic on-stage.
And for the ultimate convenience, take advantage of our Delivered at Seat service – skip the queues and have your favourite drinks and snacks brought straight to you.
However you choose to enjoy your next visit, we can’t wait to welcome you for another unforgettable experience!
Marie Nixon, Theatre Director
Sunderland Empire staff present nominated
We’ve got the ticket for you!
Book your tickets now
atgtickets.com/sunderland *
Box Office Opens 90 minutes prior to performance commencing. For full booking and venue information go to the inside back page. *Fees apply.
Local Heroes
25% off tickets. Keep an eye out for our logo above on selected shows. To honour our Local Heroes, we offer teachers, social care workers, prison officers, armed forces, ‘blue light’ professionals and Max Card holders 25% off up to four tickets on a wide variety of shows. Visit atgtix.co/LocalHeroes for a full list and to book.
Groups offers
Make amazing savings when you book together as a group. Look for our logo above in the brochure and book via our dedicated number or sign up below. The smallest group booking offer is listed but additional offers may be available for larger groups.
Groups & Schools 0207 206 1174 * (Mon – Fri, 9am – 5.30pm) atgtickets.com/groups
To sign up visit atgtix.co/signupgroups
*Calls to 02 & 03 numbers are charged at standard geographic rate and included in any call plan minutes.
Gift Vouchers
Treat them to an experience they’ll remember forever. With so many incredible shows to choose from at Sunderland Empire, the lucky recipient is sure to find something they love. One Voucher. A world of possibilities. atgtickets.com/gifts
Accessibility
We are proud to open our doors to everybody and make theatre accessible to all. Look out for these symbols throughout this brochure:
Audio Described BSL Interpreted Captioned Relaxed Touch Tour
At every performance we have dedicated members of staff on hand to ensure patrons with access requirements have everything they need. Visit atgtickets.com/access to contact our Access Champion with any questions.
Join our Access Membership Scheme to book tickets for accessible seats, including wheelchair positions. Eligible customers can also book essential companion tickets. For full details and to join visit atgtickets.com/access
To find out about our facilities and services visit atgtickets.com/sunderland
Before you book
We are delighted to welcome you to our venue, where we want everyone to enjoy the show. Please show consideration to your fellow audience members, who have come to enjoy the performances on-stage. 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.
The widest range of prices
Enjoy incredible shows at a price to suit you. We are committed to offering the best value, ensuring there is something for every budget. Visit atgtickets.com to explore available shows and see up-to-date ticket and price availability. You can also check the online calendar for a breakdown of price on a performance-byperformance basis.
Tue 8 – Sat 12 Apr
An Inspector Calls
LAST CHANCE
Don’t miss these show-stoppers coming in April!
Sun 13 Apr
Seven Drunken Nights: The Story of The Dubliners
Mon 14 – Sat 19 Apr
Hairspray The Musical
Tue 22 – Sun 27 Apr
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Mon 28 Apr
Northern Live: Do I Love You
Tim Rice: My Life in Musicals
I Know Him So Well
The internationally renowned lyricist returns by popular demand for a night reflecting on his illustrious career, with West End singers and band in an extraordinary live musical theatre event.
Katherine Ryan Battleaxe
Thu 1 May Sat 14 Jun
Star of UKTV’s hugely popular new series Parental Guidance, as well as Comedy Central’s upcoming Out of Order with Rosie Jones and Judi Love, TV’s beloved Katherine Ryan makes a hugely welcome return to the stage with her brand new live show, Battleaxe Ages 16+
Sunderland Empire, Sunderland Culture and National Theatre present Public Record.
Featuring music from The Futureheads’ Ross Millard, an incredible lineup from Sunderland’s music scene, professional dancers and community groups, this explosive new show brings together a cast of over 100 people.
This event takes place at The Fire Station on Fri 25 – Sun 27 Apr
Public Record is produced by Sunderland Culture, Sunderland Empire and the National Theatre, as part of Public Acts - the National Theatre’s nationwide programme creating extraordinary acts of theatre and community.
THE SUNDERLAND STORY FOR THE FANS
We
catch up with actor Ainsley Fannen, his return to Wearside and his passion for Sunderland AFC.
Are you excited to be returning to The Sunderland Story for the second time? Yes, very excited. As a Sunderland AFC supporter, it’s a story that’s so close to my heart. It’s great to be performing in my hometown – the audiences are amazing here.
What appealed to you about this production?
I grew up in Sunderland and loved football. I went to stage school but at age ten I had to choose between performing and football when rehearsals and footy practice started to clash! This story blends my two passions so perfectly that when I heard about The Sunderland Story the first time around, I wrote to the producers practically begging them to consider me for an audition!
Can you tell us a little about your character? His name is Kevin Carter and he’s named after Super Kevin Phillips who was a prolific striker for Sunderland AFC. He’s part of a football-mad family who come together for their grandad’s funeral and begin to reminisce about the time they spent together and their memories of the club – and Kevin who is fascinated by their stories.
What about this show appeals to regular theatregoers? Oh, they have the time of their lives! It’s got songs, dancing and a live band. Unlike regular musicals, where it isn’t theatre etiquette to join in with the songs, the audience is invited to join in with elements of it.
What was your biggest highlight of the show last time round? Sunderland AFC’s anthem is the Elvis song Can’t Help Falling in Love, so it
was an emotional moment for me on-stage when 2,000 audience members started to sing that. Even if you’re not from Sunderland you’d ‘get it’. It was a special moment. As it was when the club’s heroes from the ’73 cup winning team joined us on-stage.
As a fan yourself, what was it like to share the stage with some of the club’s biggest legends? Incredible. Back in 1973, my grandad went to every match, but he couldn’t get a ticket for the cup final in London. So, when the original team walked on-stage, it was a real treat for him and everyone else in the audience to see their heroes lift the cup live on-stage after all these years. I even got to introduce him to Richie Pitt in the bar afterwards.
The Sunderland Story
Thu 15 – Sat 31 May
After earning standing ovations at every performance in 2023, immerse yourself in the passion and energy of a Sunderland AFC matchday like never before. This unique celebration of the club and its city comes to life through a story woven with the songs of its devoted supporters, including Cheer Up Peter Reid, Sunderland Till I Die and Can’t Help Falling in Love. A feel-good tribute to a lifelong love of the red and white stripes, this is an experience no fan should miss, with the ‘73 legends appearing on-stage after every performance!
‘Magnificent play, performances are outstanding.’ – Kevin Phillips
‘A fun, booming celebration of the city and its football club.’ – Sunderland Echo
Look out for QR codes in venue to place your order
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s multi award-winning cultural phenomenon Hamilton is touring the UK & Ireland and is coming to Sunderland for a six-week season –tickets selling fast!
Hamilton is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and helped shape the very foundations of the America we know today. The score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway –the story of America then, as told by America now.
Hamilton has book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is directed by Thomas Kail, with choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, and is based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton.
Ages 10+
G10+ | |
Photo by Danny Kaan .
The best seat in the house ...has your name on it
Are you, or a friend or loved one, a dedicated theatregoer?
You can help us to continue our work with children and communities by dedicating a seat that will go towards funding our award-winning Creative Learning team.
£130 (five years)
Derren Brown Only Human
Tue 29 Jul – Sat 2 Aug
Prepare to be astonished! The multi award-winning master of mind control and psychological illusion, Derren Brown, returns to Sunderland with his brand new live show, Only Human.
The content of Only Human is still under wraps, but we can guarantee you a mind-blowing experience that’ll take your breath away!
Tickets for Derren’s shows always sell out fast, so don’t miss out.
Ages 12+
‘Be brainwashed into joy by one of the world’s best magicians.’ – The New York Times
Scan here or visit atgtix.co/sunderlandseatdedication to find out more.
Chicago
‘Murder, greed, corruption, exploitation, adultery and treachery… all those things we hold near and dear to our hearts’. So begins the international multi award-winning musical, Chicago.
Chicago, the ‘sexiest musical ever’ (Metro) comes to Sunderland in August for one week only, starring Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer and TV star Janette Manrara (It Takes Two, Burn The Floor, Glee) as Roxie Hart.
Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, Chicago’s sexy, sassy score with one show-stopping song after another includes Razzle Dazzle, Cell Block Tango and All That Jazz. Chicago truly is ‘superb’
(The Daily Telegraph)
Ages 13+
‘A razzling-dazzling evening that is not to be
– The Sun
‘Sheer theatrical bliss.’ – The Daily Telegraph
missed.’
JANETTE MANRARA AS ROXIE HART
DJALENGA SCOTT AS VELMA KELLY
BOOH_ATG_Generic_SP_84x128_76x84_April2025.indd 1 05/02/2025 18:14
Bat Out Of Hell
Get ready for the ultimate rock experience as Bat Out Of Hell, featuring the iconic music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf, roars back to the UK!
2 05/02/2025 18:14
Headlining this epic production, we are thrilled to welcome back Glenn Adamson, Sharon Sexton and Rob Fowler in the iconic roles of Strat, Sloane and Falco, joined by the sensational Katie Tonkinson as Raven. Their unmatched vocal talents will bring Meat Loaf’s anthems to life, including I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That), Paradise By The Dashboard Light, Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad, Dead Ringer For Love and, of course, Bat Out Of Hell.
Brace yourself for a legendary night of rock ‘n’ roll as Bat Out Of Hell explodes back onto the stage, promising a spectacle that will leave you breathless! Ages 13+
‘Bat Out Of Hell is back with a bang and a vengeance.’ – Manchester Evening News
‘Bat Out Of Hell is an extravagant, all guns blazing musical.’ – Oxford Mail
BE IN THE KNOW!
2:22 A Ghost Story
Mon 8 – Sat 13 Sep
Following seven West End seasons, a recordbreaking UK and Ireland tour and thirty productions across the globe, the stage phenomenon 2:22 A Ghost Story returns to Sunderland.
Find out everything from on-sale ticket announcements, behind-thescenes stories, competitions and the opportunity to interact with like-minded theatregoers!
/sunderlandempire @sundempire
@sunderland_empire @sunderlandempire
@sunderlandempire @Sunderland Empire
Winner of Best New Play at the WhatsOnStage Awards, husband and wife duo Kevin Clifton (Strictly Come Dancing, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Chicago) and Stacey Dooley (TV presenter and Strictly winner) star as fictional couple Sam and Jenny in this edge-of-your-seat supernatural thriller. Dooley reprises her role from her stage debut in the 2024 West End production, with Clifton joining her in venues across the country throughout 2025. Ages 12+
G6+ |
STACEY DOOLEY
KEVIN CLIFTON STARRING
Directed by MATTHEW DUNSTER & GABRIEL VEGA WEISSMAN
The Hit Play By DANNY ROBINS
FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
Get ready for non-stop laughs with your favourite friends.
FRIENDS! The Musical Parody, the hit New York and Las Vegas sensation, is a sidesplitting musical comedy packed with iconic moments from all ten seasons of the beloved television series. Featuring an entirely original musical score, the show follows the escapades of the world’s most famous group of twenty-somethings.
From the producers of Hairspray and the director of The Full Monty, this humorous take on the beloved TV show blends iconic moments with laugh-out-loud comedy. Join Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe as they navigate love, friendship and life’s ups and downs in 1990s New York City.
Whether you’re in a love triangle, trying to make it as an actor or just can’t quit your day job, you’ll be laughing, crying and quoting your favourite lines all night long!
Ages 13+
Mary Poppins
Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s spectacular production of the classic multi award-winning musical Mary Poppins is flying to Sunderland for four weeks only.
Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the world’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is more magical than ever, with dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs.
The timeless score includes the classic songs by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman: Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Feed the Birds, with new songs, music and lyrics by the Olivier Awardwinning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe Ages 7+
‘Practically perfect in every way. Irresistible! Beautiful, magical, thrilling. Speed to Cherry Tree Lane.’ –The Telegraph
Photo by Danny Kaan .
TH E AT R E FO R ALL
We are committed to making our venues accessible for all and regularly schedule performances that are tailored to ensure everyone can enjoy the magic of live theatre.
Audio Described
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Thu 24 Apr 7pm
Hamilton Thu 24 Jul 7.30pm
Chicago Thu 7 Aug 7.30pm
Mary Poppins Thu 16 Oct 7.30pm
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Fri 14 Nov 7pm
Sleeping Beauty Sat 3 Jan 2026 5.30pm
Matilda The Musical Wed 25 Feb 2026 7.30pm
BSL Interpreted
Hamilton Mon 21 Jul 7.30pm
Mary Poppins Wed 22 Oct 7.30pm
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Fri 14 Nov 7pm
Sleeping Beauty Sat 3 Jan 2026 1pm
Matilda The Musical Fri 27 Feb 2026 7.30pm
Captioned
An Inspector Calls Thu 10 Apr 7.30pm
Hairspray The Musical Thu 17 Apr 7.30pm
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Thu 24 Apr 7pm
Hamilton Tue 22 Jul 7.30pm
Mary Poppins Thu 23 Oct 7.30pm
Sleeping Beauty Sat 3 Jan 2026 5.30pm
Matilda The Musical Tue 24 Feb 2026 7.30pm
Relaxed
Sleeping Beauty Fri 2 Jan 2026 5pm
Matilda The Musical Sun 15 Feb 2026 2.30pm
Further information
Did you know, that for every performance (not just assisted performances), we have dedicated members of staff on hand to ensure any patrons with access requirements have everything they need? See page 7 for more details.
LOLA ALL DAY AND ALL OF THE NIGHT
WATERLOO SUNSET
SUNNY AFTERNOON
YOU REALLY GOT ME SET ME FREE
DEAD END STREET AND MANY, MANY MORE... DAYS
Sunny Afternoon
The Olivier Award-winning musical sensation about one of Britain’s greatest bands is back. ‘A blazing triumph. I swear you’ll get goosebumps’ (The Telegraph).
This ‘indisputably terrific’ (The Times) musical celebrates the raw energy, passion and timeless sound of The Kinks, telling their story through an incredible back catalogue, including You Really Got Me, Lola and All Day and All of the Night. Winning the Olivier for ‘Best New Musical’, Sunny Afternoon charts the euphoric highs and agonising lows of one of the most iconic bands of all time – jam-packed with their irresistible music that influenced an entire generation. Set against the backdrop of Britain on the cusp of the rebellious 60s, Sunny Afternoon is an ‘exhilarating’ (Financial Times) and moving celebration of the music, life, and the band that changed it all. Ages 12+
★★★★★ ‘A belter! Funny, stylish. It has everything The Kinks had.’ – Daily Mail
★★★★ ‘This is a great, very British musical about a great, very British band.’ – The Times
Available for the first hour of opening on a range of our delicious cocktails. Venue opens up to two hours ahead of showtime. Offer excludes matinées and early shows.
DIRECT FROM THE WEST END
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as the West End smash hit production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe comes to Sunderland this winter.
Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits.
Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they meet new friends, face dangerous foes and learn the lessons of courage, sacrifice and the power of love.
Celebrating the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’s classic novel, watch The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe come to life in this spectacular production – a delight for all ages.
Ages 6+
★★★★★ ‘Spectacular.’ – Metro
★★★★ ‘A fantastical family treat.’ – The Telegraph
★★★★ ‘Exhilarating production, spellbinding spectacle and perfect puppetry.’ – The Guardian
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY C.S. LEWIS
Photo by Brinkhoff-Moegenburg .
Top Hat
You’re invited to the musical equivalent of the finest vintage champagne. Effervescent, elegant and exhilarating, Top Hat, based on the classic RKO movie starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, is a heady romantic cocktail laced with sparklingly witty dialogue, stunning choreography, lavish sets and gorgeous costumes.
Irving Berlin’s irresistible score includes some of Hollywood’s greatest songs, the immortal Cheek to Cheek, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Top Hat White Tie and Tails and Puttin’ on the Ritz. When Broadway star Jerry Travers arrives in London to open a new show, he crosses paths with model Dale Tremont, whose beauty sleep is rudely interrupted by Jerry tap dancing in the hotel suite above hers. Instantly smitten, Jerry vows to abandon his bachelor life to win her – but the path of true love never does run smooth.
Acclaimed American director and choreographer Kathleen Marshall, whose Tony® and Olivier Awardwinning production of Anything Goes recently wowed audiences and critics in London and on television, comes to the UK to stage this brand new production.
DIRECT FROM THE WEST END
Fiddler on the Roof
A theatrical triumph, the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s sold-out, electrifying Fiddler on the Roof is set to be the theatre event of 2025.
Coming to Sunderland for one week only, this is a rare opportunity to catch this critically-acclaimed production. From the powerhouse creative team directed by Jordan Fein (Oklahoma, Young Vic), choreographed by Julia Cheng (Cabaret) and designed by Tom Scutt (Winner of the 2024 Tony® Award for Cabaret)
One of the greatest musicals of all time – featuring If I Were A Rich Man, Tradition, Matchmaker and Sunrise, Sunset –Fiddler on the Roof is a classic musical of joy, revolution and community and an exuberant celebration of love and life.
★★★★★ ‘Show-stopper. Speaks to the present. Sublime.’ – The Guardian
‘Liberating, exuberant – hugely moving.’ – Evening Standard
Book by JOSEPH STEIN Music by JERRY BOCK Lyrics by SHELDON HARNICK Original New York Stage Production directed and choreographed by JEROME ROBBINS
BASED ON THE SHOLEM ALEICHEM STORIES BY SPECIAL PERMISSION OF ARNOLD PERL
LEARN. CREATE. PERFORM. ENJOY.
Creative Learning provides enriching and unforgettable opportunities for everyone to engage with live entertainment.
The award-winning Sunderland Creative Learning Programme unlocks the world of live entertainment, bringing it to the hearts of our local communities and schools.
If you would like any more information or have any access requirements, then please email: SunderlandCreativeLearning @atgentertainment.com
Delivered by our team of industry professionals, our Academy offers training and skills development in key musical theatre disciplines – acting, singing, vocal technique and dance for young people aged 6 – 18.
Sundays 10am – 1pm | £17.50 per week Places are limited so please contact us directly to register your interest.
Private Tuition
We offer private tuition in acting and singing, with the option to work towards accredited qualifications.
Sundays 9am – 3pm | Ages 6 – 18 £12.50 per week
Recruiting now for Schools Partnership programme
Our Schools Partnership programme runs over an academic year and involves building meaningful relationships with schools. Partner schools benefit from a creative programme of activities including curriculum-focused projects, workshops, ticket offers and more! We can offer a package to suit your needs, get in touch to receive an information pack.
Weekly Groups
Bright Minds Youth Theatre
A vibrant and inclusive youth theatre group for neurodivergent young people aged 12 – 18.
Mondays 4.30pm – 6pm
£30 per half term
Broadway Babies Music and Movement
Our Broadway Babies classes provide a lovely opportunity to bond with your baby as well as encouraging movement and interaction with the world through musical theatre-themed sessions. Class is suitable for babies from newborn to two years.
Tuesdays 10am – 11am
£6.50 per week paid monthly
Theatre Summer School
Come and join us this summer at Sunderland Empire. Our weeklong programme is packed full of creative activities including masterclasses, dance, singing, drama and backstage workshops where you’ll learn more about what goes on behind the scenes of a working theatre. Last year’s Summer School was a sell out, so be sure to book your place soon!
Mon 11 – Fri 16 Aug
£155 per person
£130 for Sunderland Empire Academy members
Connect Company
An inclusive theatre group for adults aged 18+ with additional needs.
Mondays 10am – 3pm
£20 per week paid monthly
Dance Fit 50+
Get fit and have fun at the same time with this dance class for adults over 50.
Wednesdays 10.30am – 11.30am
£5 per week
Movers
Ballet and contemporary dance classes for adults over 55, embracing the joy of movement and dance.
Thursdays 10.15am – 12.15pm
Fridays 10am – 12pm
£6 per week
Tours
Public Tours
Our exciting theatre tours are full to the brim with interesting facts and tales from the theatre’s rich history – you may even hear a ghost story or two!
Selected weekdays and Saturdays 11am – 12.30pm | £8.50 per person
We also offer Private Venue Tours for schools and community groups. Please get in touch directly to enquire.
Kinky Boots The Musical
Tue 2 – Sat 6 Dec
Fawlty Towers – The Play
MM_FT_2025020_ATG_Brochure_61x92_+3mmBleed.indd 1 31/01/2025 13:46
Fall head over heels for this all new production!
The Broadway and West End phenomenon, Kinky Boots The Musical, is strutting back to Sunderland.
This joy-filled sensation, based on a true story and hit movie, features Tony® and Grammy winning music and lyrics by pop icon Cyndi Lauper, a hilarious and life-affirming book by Tony® Award winner Harvey Fierstein and is directed by Nikolai Foster.
Guaranteed to RAISE YOU UP and celebrate everybody’s individuality!
Ages 8+
Tue 3 – Sat 7 Feb 2026
The ‘Greatest British Sitcom of All Time’ (Radio Times) is back – this time on-stage! Nearly 50 years since it first graced our TV screens, Fawlty Towers is now a brand new stage play adapted by comedy legend John Cleese and directed by Caroline Jay Ranger
Join Basil, Sybil, the delightfully bumbling Major, and an 18-strong cast as they bring to life all your favourite moments from the show’s unforgettable twelve episodes. With sharp wit, chaos and calamity at every turn, this is the comedy event of the year!
Secure your tickets now and relive the madness of Fawlty Towers live on-stage. It’s a staycation you’ll never forget!
Photo of original West End Cast.
THE NORTH EAST ’S QUEEN OF COMEDY!
The spellbinding Sleeping Beauty promises a laugh-a-minute extravaganza with stunning sets, top musical hits, fantastic costumes, and exciting special effects to keep audiences both young and old entertained!
Fri 12 Dec 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026
Go online for performance times | Tickets from £15*
ATG+ Membership Offer – £5 off (Selected performances)
Groups Offer – £6/4 off per ticket for groups of 10+ (Selected performances)
Relaxed Fri 2 Jan 2026 5pm | BSL Interpreted Sat 3 Jan 2026 1pm
Audio Described Sat 3 Jan 2026 5.30pm | Captioned Sat 3 Jan 2026 5.30pm
TIME TO BE REVOLTING
MUSICALTHE MUSICAL
BOOK DENNIS KELLY MUSIC & LYRICS TIM MINCHIN
Matilda The Musical
The Royal Shakespeare Company’s Matilda The Musical, the multi award-winning musical inspired by the beloved book by Roald Dahl, returns to Sunderland in February.
In celebration of 15 years on-stage since opening at the Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, and following performances in 100 cities across 17 countries worldwide, Matilda The Musical now returns to the Sunderland Empire.
With book by Dennis Kelly, music and lyrics by Tim Minchin and directed by Matthew Warchus, Matilda is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.
Winner of over 100 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical, the ‘unique and unforgettable’ (Rolling Stone) global phenomenon, Matilda has now delighted over 12 million audiences worldwide. Ages 6+
‘Simply unmissable. There’s never been a better time to see Matilda.’ – Huffington Post
Photo by Manuel Harlan .
April
An Inspector Calls
Tue 8 – Sat 12 Apr 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat) Thu 10 Apr 7.30pm
Seven Drunken Nights: The Story of The Dubliners Sun 13 Apr 7.30pm
Hairspray The Musical
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Northern Live: Do I Love You
Mon 14 – Sat 19 Apr 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed & Sat) Thu 17 Apr 7.30pm
Tue 22 – Sun 27 Apr 7pm (Excl. Sun), 2pm (Wed, Sat & Sun) Thu 24 Apr 7pm
Mon 28 Apr 7.30pm
The Prat Pack 2025 UK Tour Tue 29 Apr 7.30pm
Kathleen Davis presents Once More From the Top! Wed 30 Apr 7.30pm
May Tim Rice: My Life In Musicals – I Know Him So Well Thu 1 May 7.30pm
The Sunderland Story Thu 15 – Sat 31 May 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Sat)
June Scandal at the Stage Door: A 1920s Murder Mystery Evening Fri 6 Jun 6pm
Sunderland Schools Dance Festival 2025 Thu 12 Jun 1.30pm
Dance Schools of Sunderland Festival 2025 Thu 12 Jun 7.30pm
Katherine Ryan: Battleaxe Sat 14 Jun 8pm
Hamilton
July Derren Brown: Only Human
Tue 17 Jun – Sat 26 Jul 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed & Sat) Mon 21 Jul 7.30pm, Tue 22 Jul 7.30pm, Thu 24 Jul 7.30pm
Tue 29 Jul – Sat 2 Aug 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Sat)
August Chicago Mon 4 – Sat 9 Aug 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed & Sat) Thu 7 Aug 7.30pm
Bat Out Of Hell Mon 18 – Sat 23 Aug 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed & Sat)
September Strange but True Crime with Jennifer Rees Sun 7 Sep 7.30pm
2:22 A Ghost Story Mon 8 – Sat 13 Sep 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed & Sat)
FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
October Mary Poppins
November Sunny Afternoon
Tue 23 – Sat 27 Sep 7.30pm (Excl. Fri), 5.30pm & 8.30pm (Fri), 2.30pm (Sat)
Wed 1 – Sat 25 Oct 7.30pm (Excl. Sun), 2.30pm (Wed, Thu 23 Oct & Sat), 2pm (Sun) Thu 16 Oct 7.30pm, Wed 22 Oct 7.30pm, Thu 23 Oct 7.30pm
Tue 4 – Sat 8 Nov 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed, Fri & Sat)
Queen of the Night: A Tribute to Whitney Houston Sun 9 Nov 7.30pm
Top Hat
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Fiddler on the Roof
December Kinky Boots The Musical
Sleeping Beauty
Tue 18 – Sat 22 Nov 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat)
Tue 11 – Sat 15 Nov 7pm, 2pm (Wed, Thu & Sat) Fri 14 Nov 7pm
Tue 25 – Sat 29 Nov 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat)
Tue 2 – Sat 6 Dec 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed & Sat)
Fri 12 Dec – Sun 4 Jan 2026 See website for details. Fri 2 Jan 2026 5pm, Sat 3 Jan 2026 1pm, Sat 3 Jan 2026 5.30pm
January 2026 The Night Sky Show Sat 10 Jan 7.30pm
February Fawlty Towers – The Play
Matilda The Musical
September Lord of the Dance: 30th Anniversary
Audio Described BSL Interpreted Captioned Relaxed
Tue 3 – Sat 7 Feb 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat)
Wed 11 – Sat 28 Feb See website for details. Sun 15 Feb 2.30pm, Tue 24 Feb 7.30pm, Wed 25 Feb 7.30pm, Fri 27 Feb 7.30pm
Wed 9 – Sat 12 Sep 7.45pm, 2.30pm (Fri & Sat)
PUT YO UR BU S INESS IN THE SPOTLI G HT
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 £299, with some fantastic benefits. For more details email our Sales and Development Manager at paulamitchell@atgentertainment.com or visit atgtix.co/sunderlandcorporate
A huge thank you to our sponsors and partners
Buy your tickets
atgtickets.com/sunderland *
ATG+ Membership atgtix.co/membership | 0330 102 7200** Groups & Schools 0207 206 1174†
*Fees apply. **Calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. †Calls charged at local rate for group bookings only.
Find out more
For further information about the shows including running and performance times, please visit atgtickets.com/sunderland /sunderlandempire
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@sunderland_empire
@sunderlandempire
@sunderlandempire
@Sunderland Empire
Access tickets can be booked by joining our Access Membership Scheme. For accessibility advice please contact us online atgtickets.com/access/contact-us or call our Access Assistance line on 0333 009 5399** For D/deaf and hard of hearing customers our Type Talk number is 180001 0333 009 5399* (Open daily 9am-8pm, except Christmas Day. Bank holiday hours may vary).
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. ATG+ Membership, group ticket prices and any special offers 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+ Membership offers are for a maximum of 4 tickets per card on selected seats, prices and performances. atgtickets.com/membership
Children
No children under 3 will be admitted to the venue except where it is specifically stated at the time of booking that the event is suitable for under 3s. Babes in arms (children under 18 months unless otherwise stated at the time of booking and on the ticket) will only be admitted to performances that are specifically aimed for them (pantomimes and shows permitting under 3s only). Where babes in arms are permitted they shall be admitted free of charge. If any other age restrictions apply for a particular performance this will be stated on the relevant production page of our website. Children (ages 18 months to 15 years inclusive) shall require their own ticket which shall be at full ticket price if no child concessions are available at the time of booking. Children (ages 15 years and under) must be supervised at all times. Supervision of children shall be by no less than 1 adult (aged 18 years or over) per 10 children and the supervising adult must sit next to the child/ren. The Management reserves the right to ask parents / supervisors to remove children if, in the opinion of the Management, they are causing a disturbance. Please note that some productions can be loud, if a member of your party is sensitive to this, we would recommend bringing their preferred noise protection.
This brochure is available as an accessible download from atgtickets.com/sunderland (select ‘Your Visit’) or contact us to request an alternative format.
**Calls to 02 &03 numbers are charged at standard geographic rate and included in any call plan minutes.
Plan your visit
We are easy to find and for information on parking, pre-theatre drinks and hospitality, please visit atgtickets.com/sunderland
Sunderland Empire, High Street West, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear SR1 3EX
Travel by Tyne and Wear Metro for free up to 2 hours before and after the performance! Only valid when presenting a valid show ticket.
Conditions of sale
Our full terms and conditions are available online atgtickets.com/terms-and-conditions
Information about fees
Up to £2.25 from each ticket sold is used for the upkeep and improvements to your venue. 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 venues, 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 on to a friend.
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