Sunderland Empire Summer 2012

SUMMER 2012

0844 871 3022* www.atgtickets.com/ sunderland* COMES TO SUNDERLAND TUE 18 SEP - SAT 6 OCT *Booking fees apply

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Buy an ATG Theatre Card today and join the 100 000 theatre lovers across the UK who are already enjoying priority tickets and great savings.

ATG Theatre Card gives you: Priority tickets - get the best seats first!

Special ticket offers including half price on many productions No booking or postage fees on most shows Priority brochure Fee free ticket exchange Save 10% on pre show and interval drinks Free cloakroom (selected venues) Accepted at 39 venues across the UK and in the West End

£5 OFF

Tue 13, Wed 14, Mon 19 & Tue 20 Nov†

39 VENUES FOR £30 JOIN TODAY! Go to www.atgtickets.com/theatrecard Call 0844 871 7633 Visit Your nearest ATG venue Box Office

HALF PRICE Opening night or £5 off †

ATG Theatre Card benefits are subject to availability, please check with the venue. Members can purchase up to 4 tickets and drinks with their Card.

Additional booking fees may apply on selected music, comedy and named act events. ATG reserves the right to withdraw benefits or related offers and without notice. For full Terms and Conditions please visit our website www.atgtickets.com/theatrecard. † Restrictions apply.

DIARY APRIL

JULY

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

7 April RHOD GILBERT

3 July KATHLEEN DAVIS PRODUCTIONS PRESENT WOW!

5 September FRANKIE BOYLE - THE LAST DAYS OF SODOM

THE MAN WITH THE FLAMING BATTENBERG TATTOO

16 - 21 April SPAMALOT

MAY 1 - 12 May SOUTH PACIFIC 14 - 19 May SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME 31 May 80’S MANIA

JUNE 7 June THE DRIFTERS 8 June SAOS PRESENT THE DIAMOND YEARS 9 June ESSENCE OF IRELAND 16 June THE JOHNNY CASH STORY 21 June SUNDERLAND SCHOOL’S DANCE FESTIVAL 22 June AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH JOE LONGTHORNE 23 June TRISH & TRINA DANCE ACADEMY PRESENT CHANCE TO DANCE 27 June ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS 29 & 30 June CENTRE STAGE DISNEY’S ALADDIN

DON’T MISS SPAMALOT Mon 16 - Sat 21 April Sunderland cast: Steven Pacey, Bonnie Langford & Todd Carty

7July BOB THE BUILDER LIVE BOB’S BIG THEATRE BUILD 14 July NORTHERN STAR ARTS PRESENT SHOW ME THE STARS 17 - 21 July 42ND STREET

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 3 & 4 August SUNDERLAND EMPIRE STAGE EXPERIENCE FAME 7 August THE WIND ROAD BOYS 10 - 12 August ANGELINA BALLERINA

18 September - 6 October DIRTY DANCING

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 18 - 20 October BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET SWAN LAKE 27 October KATHLEEN DAVIS PRODUCTIONS PRESENT WHEN SPOOKY STARTED DANCING 29 October - 3 November 9 TO 5

NOVEMBER 13 - 24 November STARLIGHT EXPRESS

‘IF YOU DON’T ALREADY HAVE A TICKET,

★★★★

‘A MUSICAL MASTERPIECE. IT’S A REVELATION’ MAIL ON SUNDAY

★★★★★

‘FAULTLESS’ DAILY MAIL

Supported by

4

In association with

GO AND PURCHASE ONE IMMEDIATELY’

DAILY MAIL

WINNER OF 7 TONY AWARDS! RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S

STARRING

MATTHEW CAMMELLE (PHANTOM OF THE OPERA)

ALEX FERNS (DONMAR’S GUYS AND DOLLS)

DANIEL KOEK (WEST SIDE STORY)

REBECCA THORNHILL (SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN AT THE NATIONAL THEATRE – OLIVIER AWARD NOMINEE) DIRECTED BY BARTLETT SHER This breathtaking Lincoln Center Theater production reinvented Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical. It swept the 2008 Tony Awards, played for two years to sold-out houses on Broadway and was televised across America. This smash hit musical has now enchanted UK audiences, receiving huge critical acclaim and sold-out houses at London’s Barbican, before embarking on a record breaking UK tour. With a cast and live orchestra of 50, this international hit landmark production arrives at the Sunderland Empire for 2 weeks only.

Metropolitan Opera Director and Winner of Tony Award for Best Director, Bartlett Sher, directs a stellar cast which includes British musical theatre stars Rebecca Thornhill, Matthew Cammelle, Alex Ferns and Daniel Koek.

Considered one of the finest musicals ever written, the score includes Some Enchanted Evening, I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair and There is Nothin’ Like a Dame. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to witness one of the greatest musicals of all time, as the critics agree, ‘THIS IS A SHOW YOU WILL REMEMBER FOREVER.’ Previous cast. Photographs by Simon Annand.

TUE 1 - SAT 12 MAY Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed, Sat & Thu 3 May 2.30pm TICKETS £14.50 - £42.50 (Premium seats also available)

ATG THEATRE CARD Half price opening night or £5 off† AFTERNOON TEA Enjoy afternoon tea with South Pacific from £7.50. Details on p9.

SIGNED PERF Fri 11 May 7.30pm. Call 0191 566 1045 C G E F Details page 23

0844 871 3022* GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3042 www.atgtickets.com/sunderland* *Booking fees apply †Restrictions apply

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FROM THE TEAM THAT BROUGHT YOU DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS BILL KENWRIGHT AND LAURIE MANSFIELD PRESENT A BRAND-NEW MUSICAL FULL OF ROCK ’N’ ROLL CLASSICS

BY LAURENCE MARKS & MAURICE GRAN FEATURING THE HITS OF DOC POMUS & MORT SHUMAN AND MANY MORE

DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS MEETS DIRTY DANCING IN AN ALL NEW ROCK ’N’ ROLL MUSICAL From the team that brought you the huge success that is Dreamboats and Petticoats, Save the Last Dance For Me will take you back through the ‘music and magic’ of the early 60s, a time when each passing week brought another rock ’n’ roll classic.

Featuring the unmistakable hits of Doc Pomus & Mort Shuman including; A Teenager in Love, Sweets for my Sweet, His Latest Flame, Viva Las Vegas, Save the Last Dance For Me and many more, this nostalgic, feel-good journey will transport you back to music’s golden era as we follow two teenage sisters through the summer of ’63.

For the first time without their parents, the sisters embark on a holiday to the seaside. Full of freedom and high spirits they meet a handsome young American who invites them to a dance at the local U.S. Air Force base. But young love and holiday romance is never as simple as it sounds, and the sisters soon realise that while the world around them is still watching itself in black and white, life and love can be much more colourful.

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FEATURING THE CLASSIC HITS OF POMUS & SHUMAN including A Teenager in Love Sweets For My Sweet His Latest Flame Here I Go Again Suspicion Save the Last Dance For Me and many more

MON 14 - SAT 19 MAY Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm TICKETS £12 - £30.50 (Premium seats also available)

ATG THEATRE CARD Half price opening night or £5 off† SENIOR CITIZENS £18.50 Best available Wed mat† AFTERNOON TEA Enjoy afternoon tea with Save the Last Dance for Me from £7.50. For details see page 9 C G E Details page 23

0844 871 3022* GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3042 www.atgtickets.com/sunderland* *Booking fees apply †Restrictions apply

THEATRE TOURS AND SPECIAL EVENTS TOURS Come and look behind the scenes of the North East’s flagship theatre. Auditorium tours include a historic talk, as well as backstage and onstage access, giving you the opportunity to see the sets and staging of large scale productions up close and personal! The tour concludes with complimentary tea and coffee served in the Dress Circle bar.

The following tours are on sale now: SPAMALOT Fri 20 Apr 3pm SOUTH PACIFIC Thu 10 May 11am (Tours last approximately 90 minutes)

TOUR PRICES £6 per person / Groups 10+ £5 per person To book a place, call into the Box Office or contact us on the priority booking line, 0191 566 1045.

School and youth groups see pages 18 - 19 for details If you would like to book a tour on any other date for your group, please contact our Creative Learning Manager on 0191 566 1056.

Please Note: Places are limited and will be sold on a first come, first served basis. We regret that due to the large number of stairs, tours are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with walking difficulties.

AFTERNOON TEAS Make your matinee visit to South Pacific, Save the Last Dance for Me or 42nd Street a little more indulgent by enjoying a pre-show Afternoon Tea. For just £7.50, on top of your ticket price, you’ll receive a programme, a cup of tea or coffee and a mouth watering cake. For a little extra at £12.50, swap your tea or coffee for a 20cl bottle of Prosecco.

Afternoon Teas take place in the Sunderland Empire’s Melvyn James Hospitality Suite from 1pm before mid week and Saturday matinees.

HAVE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE WITH DIRTY DANCING Relax and unwind with one of our perfect party packages and Dirty Dancing.

For £27.50 on top of your ticket price, you can enjoy:

 A private, reserved area pre-show and during the interval

with a dedicated staff member

 A glass of pink fizz on arrival to the theatre  A souvenir programme  Cocktail for interval (or a non-alcoholic alternative)  Chocolates To book for any of our special events, call 0191 566 1045.

CORPORATE AND PRIVATE HOSPITALITY PACKAGES Bespoke corporate and private Hospitality Packages are also available.

Packages start from £15pp and are tailored to your needs. Simply contact our Front of House team on 0191 566 1071 to discuss further. *All prices are per person and include Crockery and VAT. Whilst we will always try and exactly match your requirements, some items may need to be changed for a similar or better product for reasons such as seasonal availability. *Minimum order 10 people

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‘ELECTRIC-FAST TAPPING. A FLURRY OF GLITZ AND GLAMOUR’ SUNDERLAND ECHO

STARRING

DAVE WILLETTS & MARTI WEBB Winner of the 1980 Tony Award for Best New Musical and the 2001 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical: 42nd Street is the timeless, inspiring tale of small town Peggy Sawyer’s rise from chorus line to Broadway star.

And those songs! Lullaby of Broadway, We’re in the Money, Shuffle Off to Buffalo, Keep Young and Beautiful, I Only Have Eyes For You and the spectacular title number, danced down a flight of stairs that lights up as brightly as the faces of the cast. Audiences will find out what it’s like to float up to musical comedy heaven.

Directed by 42nd Street’s author and Broadway director Mark Bramble, the show features the stunning sets and costumes from the US production.

‘A TOP NIGHT OF ENTERTAINMENT’ THE SCOTSMAN

‘42ND STREET RAZZLES AND DAZZLES IN EQUAL MEASURE’ THE JOURNAL

TUE 17 - SAT 21 JUL Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm TICKETS £13 - £30.50 (Premium seats also available)

ATG THEATRE CARD Half price opening night and Wed mat, or £6 off† AFTERNOON TEA Enjoy afternoon tea with 42nd Street from £7.50. For details see page 9.

C G E Details page 23

0844 871 3022* GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3042 www.atgtickets.com/sunderland* *Booking fees apply †Restrictions apply

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STAGE EXPERIENCE 2012

Music by STEVEN MARGOSHES Lyrics by JACQUES LEVY Book by JOSE FERNANDEZ Based on a concept by David DeSilva (Title song Fame written by Dean Pitchford and Michael Gore) Light up the sky like a flame, FAME! Fame The Musical is the exhilarating stage adaptation of the Academy Award-winning movie and popular TV series of the same name. This breathtaking show follows the lives of a group of students attending New York’s High School for the Performing Arts and takes audiences through the highs, lows, friendships, romances and sheer hard work that is daily life for the star-struck pupils in their quest for success. Not everyone makes it but the triumphant students perform a spine-tingling finale that will have you on your feet wanting to hear more.

Bugsy Malone, 2011 Stage Experience Reviews

‘FUNNY, ENDEARING AND UTTERLY BELIEVABLE’ SUNDERLAND ECHO

Photos from previous Stage Experience production of Bugsy Malone. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with JOSEF WEINBERGER LTD on behalf of MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL of NEW YORK.

FRI 3 & SAT 4 AUG 2.30pm & 7.15pm TICKETS £9 - £17 ATG THEATRE CARD Half price opening night† FRIDAY MATINEE OFFER 2 for 1 on top price tickets† C Details page 23

0844 871 3022* GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3042 www.atgtickets.com/sunderland* *Booking fees apply †Restrictions apply

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‘THE BIGGEST LIVE THEATRE SENSATION OF ALL TIME’ OBSERVER

★★★★ ‘SMASH HIT MUSICAL GIVES US ALL THE TIME OF OUR LIVES’ BRISTOL EVENING POST

★★★★ EVENING STANDARD

TUE 18 SEP - SAT 6 OCT Mon - Thu eves 7.30pm Fri 5pm & 8.30pm Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm Dirty Dancing - The Classic Story On Stage is an unprecedented live experience, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensationally sexy dancing.

Seen by millions across the globe this worldwide smash-hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Featuring hit songs, including Hungry Eyes, Hey Baby, Do You Love Me? and the heart-stopping I’ve Had The Time Of My Life!

Don’t miss your chance to see this truly spectacular musical theatre event.

You’ll have the time of your life.

www.dirtydancingontour.com

TICKETS £10 - £48.50 (Premium seats also available)

PARTY PACKAGES See page 9 for details SPECIAL EVENTS Company workshops and VIP Experience available from £60.

Email workshops@ dirtydancingtour.com for information.

0844 871 3022* GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3042 www.atgtickets.com/sunderland* *Booking fees apply †Restrictions apply

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BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET RETURNS TO SUNDERLAND

Swan Lake

A timeless story of good, evil and the all conquering power of love.

Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake is without doubt the most famous of all classical ballets. With its exquisite ensembles, lyrical pas de deux and bravura solos set to one of the world’s most achingly beautiful scores, it’s essential you secure your seats early.

Music Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky; Choreography Peter Wright, Lev Ivanov and Marius Petipa; Production Peter Wright and Galina Samsova; Designs Philip Prowse; Lighting Peter Teigen

Aladdin

A run-in with Palace guards leads young tearaway Aladdin into a whirlwind of adventure and romance, involving unbelievable riches, love at first sight, treachery, and of course a magic lamp, and all that it contains. These UK premiere performances of David Bintley’s magical tale of love, trickery and triumph promise to be a real treat.

Music Carl Davis; Choreography David Bintley; Sets Dick Bird; Costumes Sue Blane; Lighting Mark Jonathan Supported (2013) by The John Ellerman Foundation, the estate of Margery Bremner and the estate of Pamela Green

SWAN LAKE THU 18 - SAT 20 OCT 2012 ALADDIN THU 14 - SAT 16 MAR 2013 Thu & Fri eves 7.30pm Fri mat 2pm, Sat mat 2.30pm TICKETS £11.50 - £25 (Premium seats also available)

ATG THEATRE CARD AND BRB FRIENDS Half price opening night or £5 off† BOOK FOR BOTH SEASONS BEFORE 31 MAY 2012 AND RECEIVE 10% OFF† G C E Details page 23 †Restrictions apply

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’EM W SHO ’S O WH S! BOS

PATRICIA RESNICK MUSIC & LYRICS BY DOLLY PARTON WRITTEN BY

DIRECTED BY JEFF

CALHOUN

FRIENDSHIP, GOSSIP, POISON, MURDER? THESE GIRLS HAVE ALL OF THE FUN! 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL is a hilarious new musical comedy, based on the hit movie and centres on three office workers who turn the tables on their sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot of a boss.

They conspire to take control of the company and learn there’s nothing they can’t do - even in a man’s world. Outrageous, thoughtprovoking and even a little romantic, 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL is about teaming up and taking care of business.

FEISTY, FUN AND OH SO FABULOUS! The show features Dolly Parton’s original hit title song, 9 to 5 which won her an Oscar nomination and 4 Grammy Award nominations, along with her new Tony® and Grammy nominated score. 18 original numbers, including Backwoods Barbie and Shine Like the Sun, mix Broadway and pop with Dolly’s signature, witty lyrics, will have you kicking up your heels. Leave your daily grind behind and join in on the fun.

Based on the 20th Century Fox Picture Originally produced on Broadway by Robert Greenblatt, April 2009

MON 29 OCT - SAT 3 NOV Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm TICKETS £15 - £33.50 (Premium seats also available)

ATG THEATRE CARD Half price opening night or £5 off† CHILDREN £10 off† C G F Details page 23

0844 871 3022* GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3042 www.atgtickets.com/sunderland* *Booking fees apply †Restrictions apply

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BILL KENWRIGHT

BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP PRESENTS

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S ‘DAZZLING’ MUSICAL THE TIMES

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‘A MUSICAL THAT SURPASSES EVERYTHING AROUND IN EVERY DIMENSION’ DAILY EXPRESS

‘YOU HAVE TO SEE IT, AND STILL YOU WON’T BELIEVE IT’ DAILY TELEGRAPH

‘EXTREMELY IMPRESSIVE, SUPERB, IT’S A REAL KNOCK-OUT’ BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE

‘A ROCK SOLID ROLLER SKATING MUSICAL – SENSATIONAL’ THE HERALD

‘EXPLOSIVE ENTERTAINMENT IN EVERY SENSE. UNMISSABLE’ THE JOURNAL

‘A VISUALLY STUNNING, ELECTRIFYING EXTRAVAGANZA’ THE NATIONAL

A NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE PRODUCTION TUE 13 - SAT 24 NOV Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed, Sat & Thu 15 mats 2.30pm Bill Kenwright presents one of the best loved, longest running and most unique musicals in theatrical history. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rock-on-roller skating sensation Starlight Express explodes back onto the stage with a new production for 2012, destined to take the UK by electrifying storm.

Light years ahead of the rest, this futuristic tale about love and hope in the face of adversity promises to take you on the ride of a lifetime - with two hours of speed, spectacle, energy and turbo charged excitement, combined with an electrifying sound track, dazzling sets and costumes, some of Andrew Lloyd-Webbers most memorable musical hits and extraordinary nonstop roller-choreography by TV’s favourite dance show judge Arlene Phillips.

Buckle up; the race is truly back on!

TICKETS £19.50 - £39.50 (Premium seats also available)

ATG THEATRE CARD £5 off Tue 13, Wed 14, Mon 19 & Tue 20† SCHOOLS £15 Best Available Tue 13 - Thu 15 C G F E Details page 23

0844 871 3022* GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3042 www.atgtickets.com/sunderland* *Booking fees apply †Restrictions apply

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GET INVOLVED AT THE SUNDERLAND EMPIRE THEATRE EXPERIENCE SESSIONS

The Sunderland Empire Creative Learning Department develops activities, events and projects based on and inspired by the shows on stage.

Bespoke workshops and events can be developed to meet your requirements. Please contact us with any suggestions or requests.

SHOW-RELATED ACTIVITIES

A HANDS ON, DRAMATIC, TWO HOUR SESSION IN THE WEST END OF THE NORTH EAST Our 2 hour theatre workshop is perfect for school, youth or drama groups. The Creative Learning Department has developed an interactive Theatre Experience which is inclusive of a tour of the theatre (full backstage and onstage access) followed by a 1 hour drama session.

The drama workshop will be tailored specifically to your group and can focus on a specific style or technique or can simply aim to boost selfconfidence and improve teamwork. Theatre Experience sessions are available for all ages and are charged at £5 per person.

‘A huge thank you for the workshop last week.

The students really enjoyed it and said that it really helped them to understand the show’ Gemma Whelam, City of Sunderland College

TECHNICAL WORK EXPERIENCE PLACEMENT PROGRAMME This programme is available to anyone interested in getting real experience of working within the technical team of a large-scale, professional theatre. It is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside professional stage managers and crew during a busy week in the theatre’s calendar. The programme is open to anyone aged 18 or over with a genuine interest in this field of work. Whether you’re studying technical theatre, considering a

COACHES FOR KIDS DIRTY DANCING WORKSHOP Free dance workshops for school group bookings of 10 or more. A fun and energetic 1 hour workshop where students will have the time of their life learning some of the iconic moves from the film.

Available for students up to GCSE level, these workshops will take place at your school on a date and time convenient for you.

RESOURCE PACKS Education Resource Packs are available for many of our productions. Please contact us for further information.

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Supported by We understand that the cost of transport is one of the real challenges when planning a school trip to the theatre. With this in mind, Coaches for Kids was set up to help schools within the Sunderland Local Education Authority area to meet the cost of arranging trips to the theatre.

Working with Stratton’s Coaches and with the help of generous donations from our patrons, we can offer schools FREE coaches for travel to and from shows at the Sunderland Empire.

Please contact us for more information about eligibility criteria and application details.

STAGE EXPERIENCE 2012 career backstage or looking to improve your current skills, this could be perfect for you!

We’re accepting applications now for a week long placement during Spamalot. The placement runs from Monday 16 - Friday 20 April. You must be available for all dates. Please contact us for an application form or more information. The deadline for all applications is 30 March.

AUDITIONS

THE ROYALTY THEATRE, SUNDERLAND

SATURDAY 28 APRIL 9am Ages 9-13, 1.30pm Ages 14-25 Call Backs Sunday 29 April

ACCESS ALL AREAS! Find out more about your favourite theatre with a backstage tour! Learn about the history of our beautiful Edwardian theatre, find out more about how it is managed and see the auditorium as the stars do…from the stage! Tours are available for school/youth groups of 10 to 30 people and are charged at £3 per person.

‘Thank you for a fantastic visit! The children loved it and everything prepared for the day was great; very relevant, engaging and exciting! The session gave the children many opportunities to explore, question and even perform. A wonderful visit!’ Miss Robson, Reception Teacher, Barnes Infant School Please note due to the large number of stairs, tours are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with walking difficulties.

CONTACT For further information about any Creative Learning activity please contact us on 0191 566 1056, email sunderlandeducation@ theambassadors.com or visit our new website http://creativelearning.atg.co.uk

W CLOSED

NO APPLICATIONS

Are you aged between 9 - 25 years old?

Are you interested in performing or working backstage on a West End style show?

If you have answered yes to the above then the Sunderland Empire Stage Experience is definitely for you!

Stage Experience is an intensive two week theatre summer school giving young people from across the region the opportunity to train and perform on the North East’s biggest stage.

Under the guidance of a professional creative team, training and rehearsals, beginning on Mon 23 July, culminate in 4 performances on the Sunderland Empire stage on Fri 3 & Sat 4 August.

For more information or an application form, call 0191 566 1056.

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MUSIC, COMEDY AND DANCE !

RY S T R T S U E A H ICK G F T IN LL SE

RHOD GILBERT THE MAN WITH THE FLAMING BATTENBERG TATTOO SAT 7 APR 8pm TICKETS £26 Following several sell out UK tours and best selling stand up DVDs, multi - award winning Welsh wonder Rhod Gilbert is back on the road with a brand new live show. A regular on Live At The Apollo and with his own BBC One show Ask Rhod Gilbert, he’s one of the world’s hottest comedians. www.rhodgilbertcomedian.com

80’S MANIA THU 31 MAY 7.30pm TICKETS £20 ATG THEATRE CARD £5 off C G Europe’s official 80’s tribute concert starring legendary Top of the Pops presenter and Radio 1 DJ Mike Read as your video host. 25 pop icons are authentically recreated performing over 35 chart topping hits live in concert. With tributes to Duran Duran, Human League, Kim Wilde, Madonna, Wham, Madness and many more. www.80smaniashow.com

THE DRIFTERS THU 7 JUN 7.30pm TICKETS £25 As one of the biggest selling groups of all time, The Drifters has featured over 65 different vocalists in almost 6 decades. Following the successful gold album Up On The Roof released in 2011, The Drifters are back on tour performing hits such as Under The Boardwalk, Save The Last Dance, Up On The Roof and many more. www.theofficialdrifters.com

ESSENCE OF IRELAND SAT 9 JUN 7.30pm TICKETS £20 & £22 ATG THEATRE CARD £3 off C G The spectacular Essence of Ireland is back with their new show, and it’s bigger and better than ever! Essence of Ireland combines breathtaking dance routines with the very best of Irish music, and a touch of Irish craic. ‘EVERY DAY IS ST PATRICK’S DAY WHEN THESE GUYS ARE IN TOWN!’ BBC

THE JOHNNY CASH STORY SAT 16 JUN 7.30pm TICKETS £22 ATG THEATRE CARD £3.50 off C This live music show includes the hits A Boy Named Sue, Ring of Fire, I Walk the Line and many more. In company with Roger Dean and The Lazy Boys, you can listen to the story and sing along with the songs. A great night out as we celebrate this music legend!

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BOOK NOW www.atgtickets.com/sunderland (bkg fee)

MUSIC AND CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH JOE

LONGTHORNE

FRI 22 JUN 7.30pm TICKETS £19.50 & £21 ATG THEATRE CARD £3 off G Joe’s repertoire of voices is endless and includes hundreds of the world’s top singers, however he is best known for his impersonation of Shirley Bassey who has commented, ‘Joe can do me better than I can do myself’. Joe has received gold and platinum discs for his albums and enjoyed sell-out concerts at the Royal Albert Hall.

ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS WED 27 JUN 7.30pm TICKETS £19 & £21 ATG THEATRE CARD £3 off G Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist, Lee ‘Memphis’ King, presents the ultimate tribute to ‘The King’. This spectacular takes you through the 50s rock ’n’ roll heyday to a rousing expo of Elvis’ years performing in Vegas.

Y 0 IL 5 M T£ FA KE C TI

CENTRE STAGE PRESENT DISNEY’S ALADDIN FRI 29 & SAT 30 JUN 2.30pm & 7.30pm TICKETS £15 ATG THEATRE CARD £1.50 off C G F Following last years production of Beauty and the Beast, Centre Stage return with Disney’s Aladdin. This musical extravaganza features all of the characters and songs from the classic animated movie including A Whole New World and Friend Like Me. A vibrant production that is a must-see for all ages.

Y 0 IL 4 M T£ FA KE C TI

BOB THE BUILDER BOB’S BIG THEATRE BUILD SAT 7 JUL 1pm TICKETS £13 C F Local talent Dickie Olivier needs Bob’s help to fix up the stage for his brand new musical. But when Spud decides he wants to be the star of the show, the job doesn’t go exactly to plan. Will the theatre be ready? Will the show go on? Bob’s going to need help from his friends.

With 3 new songs, join Bob and help him fix it in his big theatre build.

Y 4 IL 5 M T£ FA KE C TI

ANGELINA BALLERINA FRI 10 - SUN 12 AUG Fri 6pm, Sat 1pm & 5pm, Sun 1pm TICKETS £13.50 - £17.50 ATG THEATRE CARD £4.50 off C G F E Angelina Ballerina pirouettes onto the stage in her brand new Mousical full of singing and dancing. Angelina and her friends think their dreams have come true when Camembert Academy wins the chance to appear in their favourite television programme ‘Simply Mouse Dancing’!

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COMEDY AND LOCAL PRODUCTIONS D N E A V R LI B W OW E N SH

FRANKIE BOYLE THE LAST DAYS OF SODOM WED 5 SEP 8pm TICKETS £26

Not suitable for under 16’s

Frankie Boyle has been pilloried, misrepresented and demonised.

And for what? For Telling It Like It Is. Now he will attempt a final tour, to heal Britain’s fools. To support its rioters. To offer the inchoate laughter of despair to a culture in freefall. These are The Last Days of Sodom.

SUB HEADING

FRI 8 JUN

SAOS PRESENT THE DIAMOND YEARS

DATE Time TICKETS £?

ATG THEATRE CARD £? off

T C CE O F TA I N FF IN E CO X O R O O B RM FO

LOCAL PRODUCTIONS TBC THU 21 JUN SUNDERLAND SCHOOLS G F SDANCE FESTIVAL SAT 23 JUN TRISH ROBSON - CHANCE TO DANCE

Awaiting copy KATHLEEN DAVIS - WOW! TUE 3 JUL SAT 14 JUL NORTHERN STAR TUE 7 AUG

THE WIND ROAD BOYS

BECOME A GROUP BOOKER AND SAVE £££’S! Did you know, when booking 10 or more tickets you can receive the following benefits without deposit: + Advanced notification and priority booking + Generous savings per ticket + No booking fees + Pre ordering of programmes and ice creams + Confirmation invoices to help you keep track + Up to eight weeks to pay This service is completely free. All you need to do is pick a show, pick up the phone and get booking!

What’s more, for as little as £15 per person you can also enjoy; a private bar, drinks on arrival and during the interval, house programmes and a hostess service. If you would like to add in one of our delicious buffets or champagne receptions, then just say the word.

A SELECTION OF SAVINGS FOR GROUPS MONKEE BUSINESS THE MUSICAL 10+ £5 off 20+ £6 off 50+ £7 off SOUTH PACIFIC 10+ £5 off 20+ £6 off 50+ £7 off SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME 10+ £5 off 20+ £6 off plus buy 10 get 1 free DISNEY’S ALADDIN 10+ £1.50 off

42ND STREET 10+ £5 off plus 1 free ticket for organiser 20+ £6 off plus 1 free ticket for organiser ANGLINA BALLERINA 10+ £3 off BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET (BOTH SEASONS) 10+ £6 off plus buy 10 get 1 free 9 TO 5 10+ £5 off 20+ £6 off 50+ £7 off STARLIGHT EXPRESS 10+ £5 off 20+ £6 off 50+ £7 off SHOWS WITH BUY 10 TICKETS GET 1 FREE 80’s Mania, An Intimate Evening with Joe Longthorne, Essence of Ireland, One Night of Elvis

For advice on booking as a group or to get those tickets reserved, call the Group Sales Team (weekdays 10am - 6pm) on

0844 871 3042 or email SunderlandGroups@theambassadors.com

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BOOK NOW www.atgtickets.com/sunderland (bkg fee)

Please note: Concessions apply to certain prices and performances only.

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Sat Nav / Online directions RD RK Our postcode is SR1RD3EX (Enter SR1PA3PZ ERE VED for nearest parking at The Bridges Shopping BEL RD E M OL Centre multi-storey which is a short walk NH N OR R TH D D YR to the theatre.)

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CONCESSIONS Shows with these symbols have the following concessions available:

FRONT OF HOUSE OPENING TIMES & LATECOMERS RULE Doors open 45 minutes prior to performance. Latecomers may not be admitted to the auditorium until a suitable break in the performance and in some instances, not until the interval. The management reserves the right to refuse admission.

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CARD CHARGES & TICKET COLLECTION Transaction and booking fees are applied.

Bookings may also additionally carry a credit/ debit card fee. For security, when collecting tickets purchased by card, the card used must be presented on collection from the Box Office.

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AUTOMATED RUNNING TIMES 0191 566 1077

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ATG THEATRE CARD BOOKING LINE 0191 566 1045

Level access, lift, wheelchair spaces and Sennheiser infra red system are available.

Open captioned and audio described performances are occasionally scheduled.

Guide dogs are welcome. Customers who require additional assistance to attend the theatre can request at the time of booking.

If you have specific access requirements about the Sunderland Empire, please call our dedicated Equal Access Booking Line on 0191 566 1045 (Mon - Fri 10am 6pm) or email sunderlandboxoffice@ theambassadors.com. is also available by calling 0844 277 9856 (24 hours).

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GROUP SALES 0844 871 3042 (Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm)

Customer Contact Centre Access Booking Number 0844 871 7677 Text Relay service is available Text Phone users 18001 0844 871 7677 Standard Phone Users 18002 0844 871 7677 For more information on Text Relay, please visit www.textrelay.org

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BY POST State the performance and choice of seats, plus your details and a cheque made payable to: The Ambassador Theatre Group Venues with a SAE to our address above. (We’ll try our best to meet your requirements). Please allow 28 days for delivery of tickets.

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TELEPHONE 0844 871 3022 (bkg fee) 9am - 10pm Mon - Sat 10am - 8pm Sun Calls to the Customer Contact Centre are charged at national rate (charges may vary according to service provider). We are unable to accept ticket reservations over the phone or online.

CONDITIONS OF SALE Tickets cannot be refunded. Ticket exchanges can only be offered for a per ticket exchange fee. Exchanges will only be accepted for the same production and for the same value or higher, on payment of the difference. All exchange requests are subject to availability and must be received at least 48 hours prior to the original performance date.

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ONLINE www.atgtickets.com/sunderland (bkg fee)

RESTORATION FUND All ticket prices have a £1 restoration levy applied. The restoration fund enables the theatre to maintain its splendour throughout. Work already completed includes: re-carpeting within the stalls and foyer, installation of new doors in the foyer entrance, foyer bar refurbishment and full, ongoing electrical and roofing works.

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BOOK IN PERSON Box Office, Sunderland Empire, High Street West, Sunderland, SR1 3EX Mon - Sat 12pm - 6pm. On performance days we close 15 minutes after curtain up (normally 7.45pm). On Sundays and Bank Holidays, we’re open 1hr prior to performance times.

Concessions may be restricted to certain price levels and performances and can be changed or withdrawn by management HESTER RD C without notice. Only one concession can D be applied at any one time and proof of AM R N EW D U R H status is required.

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Groups of 10 or more

Family offers vary per show.

Please contact the Box Office.

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BOOKING INFORMATION

By Train Most train routes to Sunderland are via Newcastle Central and can be reached within just 20 minutes by National Rail and regular Metro services.

The information in this brochure was correct at time of going to print. We reserve the right to make alterations to the published programme of events, their prices and concessions. Due to the varying nature of our shows, we cannot guarantee an unrestricted view from all seats at all times.

AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP Co-founded by Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire in 1992, the Ambassador Theatre Group Ltd (ATG) is the largest owner/operator of theatres in the UK with 39 venues, an internationally recognised theatre producer and a leader in theatre ticketing services through ATG Tickets. ATG’s impressive portfolio of West End theatres includes historic buildings such as the Apollo Victoria, Donmar Warehouse, Duke of York’s, Fortune, Harold Pinter, Lyceum, Phoenix, Piccadilly, Playhouse, Savoy, Trafalgar Studio 1 and Trafalgar Studio 2. ATG’s regional theatres include The Ambassadors Woking encompassing the New Victoria and Rhoda McGaw Theatres and the award-winning 6 screen cinema complex, Ambassador Cinemas; Aylesbury Waterside Theatre; New Alexandra Theatre Birmingham; Theatre Royal Brighton; Bristol Hippodrome; Churchill Theatre Bromley; Edinburgh Playhouse; Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone; King’s Theatre and Theatre Royal, Glasgow; Grimsby Auditorium; Liverpool Empire; Palace Theatre and Opera House, Manchester; Milton Keynes Theatre; New Theatre, Oxford; Richmond Theatre; Southport Theatre; Regent Theatre and Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent; Sunderland Empire; Princess Theatre, Torquay; New Wimbledon Theatre and New Wimbledon Studio; Grand Opera House, York. ATG has been behind some of the most successful and innovative productions in Britain and internationally. Current and recent ATG co-productions include Ghost The Musical, South Pacific, All New People, Monkee Business, Matthew Bourne’s The Nutcracker!, Legally Blonde The Musical, Monty Python’s Spamalot, The Misanthrope, West Side Story, Elling, Guys and Dolls, Sweeney Todd, Company, Exit the King and The Rocky Horror Show.

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“a sparkling performance”

“reminds you why a night out at the theatre is truly special”

THEATRE’S LONGEST-RUNNING SUPPORT ACT “the two leads fizz with delicious chemistry”

“all the makings of a classic”

Proud to play a supporting role to

The GORDON’S and SHALL WE G&T STARTED words and associated logos are trade marks. © Tanqueray Gordon & Co. 2011