Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap is the world’s longest-running play. This thrilling West End production is the genre-defining murder mystery from the best-selling novelist of all time… case closed! As news spreads of a murder in London, a group of seven strangers find themselves snowed in at a remote countryside guesthouse. When a police sergeant arrives, the guests discover – to their horror – that a killer is in their midst! Which one is the murderer? Who will be their next victim? Can you solve this world-famous mystery for yourself? For almost 70 years, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept millions of people from every corner of the globe on the edge of their seats.

Lee Memphis King, Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist, recreates the essence of the King with consummate ease and an almost unbelievable combination of stunningly accurate vocals and incredible passion in every performance. Over the last 10 years as Lee has toured his ‘One Night of Elvis’ he has picked up numerous accolades and has headlined and sold out some of the most prestigious venues across the UK and beyond. In August 2016 he completed a sell out concert tour of Israel, performing to over 8000 fans. In this latest production, Lee Memphis King portrays Elvis Presley at his peak celebrating the iconic ‘Vegas Years’ from 1969 – 1977. Resplendent in the most authentic costumes from Elvis’s performance and an orchestra backing this incredible performer prepare to be taken back in time to see Elvis in the way it was. This brand new production is dedicated entirely to the ‘Vegas Years’ when Elvis would perform in Las Vegas and tour throughout the US and Canada – the definitive record of these performances are contained in the films ‘Elvis- That’s the Way It Is’, ‘Elvis On Tour’ and the ‘Aloha from Hawaii’ concert. The show is enhanced by an orchestra of world class musicians and backing vocalists coupled with impressive video screen projection mapping out Elvis’s life and music.

The Simon & Garfunkel Story continues to stun audiences across the globe, making it a must-see international sensation. Using huge projection photos and original film footage, the international hit show also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more.

Discover the origins of the venue, from the moment we opened our doors all the way to current day.

A hugely talented cast of musicians and singers bring the music of The Dubliners back to life and will have you singing and dancing in the aisles. Direct from the West End and having sold out venues worldwide, Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of the Dubliners returns to theatres with a brand new production for its incredible 5th Anniversary tour. In partnership with Tourism Ireland and in association with legendary Irish pub O’Donoghue’s, Seven Drunken Nights tells the story of a career spanning 50 years and invokes the spirit of Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly, Barney McKenna, John Sheahan, Ciaran Bourke and Jim McCann. This hugely talented cast of musicians and singers bring the music of this iconic group back to life and will have you singing and dancing in the aisles. It is without doubt the ultimate feel good Irish show.

The ELO Experience - The world's foremost multi award-winning tribute to The Electric Light Orchestra. With a sensational string section, stunning light show and large screen projection, why not come along and enjoy this incredible show which takes you on a magical musical journey through time?  The legacy left by Jeff Lynne and The Electric Light Orchestra barely needs any introduction – suffice to say that between 1972 and 1986 they achieved more combined UK and US Top 40 hits than any other band on the planet! 10538 Overture, Evil Woman, Living Thing, Diary of Horace Wimp, Don't Bring me Down and of course Mr Blue Sky went on to become the soundtrack of our lives.  In 2016 Jeff Lynne’s ELO came back to prominence with the release of a brand new album - Alone In The Universe and a UK and World tour. The ELO Experience tour will include the greatest hits from an extensive and impressive back catalogue spanning over 45 years.  Blending rock rhythms with classical influences, ELO also released many classic albums such as A New World Record, Discovery and Out of the Blue, and many sell out tours which further established them as one of the most important and influential bands ever.  The ELO Experience have been bringing the music of Jeff Lynne and The Electric Light orchestra to the live stage since 2006. 

The international, award-winning smash-hit musical The Bodyguard is back! Starring Pussycat Doll, and multi-platinum Grammy nominated Melody Thornton as Rachel Marron. Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don’t expect is to fall in love.

Michael Flatley is back with a dazzling revival of his iconic dance extravaganza. It promises to be an extraordinary journey that will captivate audiences again with this record-breaking show.

A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the hit-movie of the same name, Legally Blonde The Musical follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams.

Hey cool cats! Hot on the heels of a sell-out 138 date tour of these green and groovy isles, The Guv will be back, baby, with a brand-new stand-up show for 2026. There’s no denying the world’s a mess daddio, but there is a glimmer of hope as the globe’s favourite Pub Landlord returns with his like-nobody-else Common Sense hot-takes for the masses, offering a much-needed truth tonic (pint for the fella/glass of white wine for the lady) for these whacked out and troubled times. With a fresh and frothing pint to hand, a barrel of laughs to pour from, and a flower in his heart, Guv is all you need. And for the brave, bold, and plain straight crazy cats amongst you who want to be in on the action in the‘Splash Zone’book them quick and wear the damn ponchos!

Get in, loser, Mean Girls is going to London.

Senbla presents Opera International's award winning Ellen Kent Production of Bizet's Carmen with international soloists, highly praised chorus and full orchestra. An evening of passion, sexual jealousy, death, and unforgettable arias. This dazzling production with orchestra features Bizet’s unforgettable melodies including ‘The Toreador’s Song’, Carmen’s enticing ‘Habanera’, and Don José’s lyrical ‘Flower Song’, in a setting evoking the stunning architecture of Seville and its main square with Roman and Moorish influences. Sung in French with English subtitles.

A Dance Fitness class for adults. Have fun and get fit at the same time by participating in choreography that focuses on stamina, coordination, mobility and balance.

Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Her luck soon changes when she's chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family… With unforgettable songs such as It’s The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!

Strap in for the smash hit Back to the Future The Musical, landing as part of its first ever UK tour. Winner of Best New Musical at the Olivier Awards, WhatsOnStage Awards and Broadway World Awards. Based on the iconic 1985 movie and brought to the stage by the film’s original creators Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis, this multi-award-winning production is dazzling critics and thrilling audiences across the globe – and now it’s Southampton’s turn to experience the ride of a lifetime. When teenager Marty McFly is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric Doc Brown, he disrupts the space-time continuum and must race against the clock to put things right – and get back to the future. Directed by Tony Award-winner John Rando. Back to the Future the Musical features original music by multi-Grammy winners Alan Silvestri (Avengers: Endgame) and Glen Ballard (Michael Jackson’s Man in the Mirror), alongside hit songs from the movie including The Power of Love, Johnny B. Goode, Earth Angel and Back in Time.

Community Chorus is a community choir for individuals aged 55+ and is based at Sunderland Empire Theatre on Fridays.

Connect Company is an inclusive theatre group for adults with additional needs.

Meet Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of some happiness in her life. When a hot new doctor arrives in town, life gets complicated. With the support of her workmates Becky and Dawn, Jenna overcomes the challenges she faces and finds that laughter, love and friendship can provide the perfect recipe for happiness.

Have the time of your life with the ultimate live experience; Dirty Dancing - The Classic Story On Stage. Full of passion and romance, heart-pounding music and sensationally sexy dancing, the record-breaking musical is even better than before in this all new production. The classic story of Baby and Johnny returns, following two blockbuster West End runs and two hit UK tours, featuring the hit songs 'Hungry Eyes', 'Hey! Baby', 'Do You Love Me?' and the heart stopping '(I've Had) The Time Of My Life'. It's the summer of 1963, and 17 year- old Frances 'Baby' Houseman is about to learn some major lessons in life as well as a thing or two about dancing. On holiday in New York's Catskill Mountains with her older sister and parents, she shows little interest in the resort activities, and instead discovers her own entertainment when she stumbles across an all-night dance party at the staff quarters. Mesmerised by the raunchy dance moves and the pounding rhythms, Baby can't wait to be part of the scene, especially when she catches sight of Johnny Castle, the resort dance instructor. Her life is about to change forever as she is thrown in at the deep end as Johnny's leading lady both on-stage and off, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives.

The BBC One's award-winning TV Show Strictly Come Dancing has spawned a glamourous live tour, following the phenomenal success of the dazzling 2019 UK tour, the pros will once again be quick-stepping their way around the UK in a glittering new tour. A huge hit with critics that regularly received standing ovations from audiences, there's no better atmosphere to enjoy the smooth moves and electrifying dance routines from these award-winning professionals. As always, the incredible talent of these world-class dancers is complemented with sensational live music, eye-popping costumes and the incredible Strictly production values. Directed by Strictly's Creative Director of Choreography Jason Gilkison, the show will feature a stunning line-up of pro dancers ready to race back to the dancefloor. The Pro dancer line-up for this tour includes Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, Graziano Di Prima, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Cameron Lombard, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk & Kai Widdrington.

Welcome to The Choir of Man, the best pub in the world… Come ready to drink in the excitement! Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry to name but a few, this is a pub like no other! A wildly talented group of incredible instrumentalists, world-class wordsmiths, and sensational singers, this cast of nine (extra)ordinary guys serve it all... live! An uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome, don’t miss this feel-good night of foot-stomping entertainment, so good you’ll want to come back and see it again and again.

Our Movers classes are Ballet and Contemporary Dance classes for adults over 55 and run on Thursday and Friday mornings.

Don’t miss the unforgettable theatrical experience of the season as this heartfelt coming-of-age story takes flight with spectacular musical numbers and dazzlingly inventive choreography. Daniel LaRusso’s journey is reimagined through movement, music, and raw, energetic storytelling. At its heart is the powerful bond between Daniel and Mr. Miyagi, who teaches that karate isn’t about fighting, it’s about balance, dignity, and respect. A Tony Award-winning design team transforms iconic cinematic moments into an emotionally charged, kinetic stage experience. Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations.

The Internationally acclaimed stage sensation, Jersey Boys! This smash hit musical has won 65 major awards and has been seen by over 30 million people worldwide. They were just four guys from Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of.  But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story — a story that has made them an international sensation all over again. The show features all their hits including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Oh What A Night, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and Working My Way Back To You. Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Olivier Award-winning, original Broadway sensation, Jersey Boys. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s too good to be true.

The smash-hit National Theatre production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time returns to London for a strictly limited season, following an acclaimed UK and International tour. Winner of 7 Olivier Awards and 5 Tony Awards® including ‘Best Play’, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time brings Mark Haddon’s best-selling novel to thrilling life on stage, adapted by two-time Olivier Award-winning playwright Simon Stephens and directed by Olivier and Tony Award®-winning director Marianne Elliott. Christopher, fifteen years old, stands beside Mrs Shears’ dead dog. It has been speared with a garden fork, it is seven minutes after midnight and Christopher is under suspicion. He records each fact in the book he is writing to solve the mystery of who murdered Wellington. He has an extraordinary brain, exceptional at maths while ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched and he distrusts strangers. But his detective work, forbidden by his father, takes him on a frightening journey that upturns his world. Production shots feature International Tour cast.

Join us on a crazy journey through time for our annual Sunderland Empire Creative Learning Showcase.

Take a journey back in time to remember Michael Jackson – the man, the music and the magic.  MichaelⓇ Starring Ben is a hit theatre production starring the UK's ultimate Michael Jackson tribute star, Ben Bowman. Not only does he look and sound like the King of Pop, but he's honed his routine so carefully that audiences truly believe they are watching Michael Jackson himself.  The show features a live band, dazzling costumes and the performer's iconic dance routines. It also showcases the greatest hits of Michael Jackson and also of The Jackson 5 including Beat It, Billie Jean, Thriller and Man in the Mirror.

A decade older, but not necessarily wiser, Susan has found herself in some improbable situations over the years. Tall Tales is a show about Cruising, driving tanks, cats and getting older. You might have seen her on the television or heard her on the radio but the absolute best way to see her is live on stage. You won’t believe how short she really is. Prepare yourself for an evening of barely believable stories, laughter and probably some dancing. As seen on Grand Day Out, Cruising with Susan Calman, QI, House of Games and (a long time ago) Strictly Come Dancing.

Join us at Sunderland Empire where local students at Northern Star Theatre Arts will bring you a dazzling display of musical theatre and contemporary pieces, featuring the very best in song, dance & drama

Join Peter Pan, Tinkerbell and Smee for a brand-new adventure - packed full of action, gravity-defying flying scenes and laugh-out-loud comedy. Star casting to be announced!

In her new book, Miriam's Full English, she turns her documentary-maker's eye on her own backyard. After exploring the rest of the world through her much-loved BBC series, she's bringing her fearless wit to stages across these islands—yes, Scotland, Wales and Ireland too! It starts with the title. The joy of a Full English is the wildly different things piled together on one plate to make something delicious. That's Britain's secret too, not shutting things out, but welcoming more in. Who better than Miriam Margolyes OBE to celebrate our not-terribly United Kingdom in one unforgettable show? There will be heroes and villains, belly laughs and sharp insights, outrageous surprises and of course, lashings of… sauce. Join her in conversation for stories from the new book, naughty confessions, and a no-holds-barred Q&A where no question is off-limits.

40 years on from the iconic gig that re-wrote music history, relive the joy of Live Aid in a “completely new and delightful way!” (Pete Townshend of The Who). Performed by an electrifying ensemble full of bonafide rockstars, JUST FOR ONE DAY: THE LIVE AID MUSICAL is a “joyous and emotionally volcanic” (Daily Mail) night at the theatre. This Olivier-nominated musical rocks the UK after wowing audiences in the West End. It will send you “out into the night with a grin on your face”(WhatsOnStage) in a state of “sheer euphoria” (Rolling Stone). Book now to join us rocking all over the world. A percentage of all ticket sales go directly to The Band Aid Charitable Trust, with 1.5 million already raised so far.

Join Peter Pan, Tinkerbell and Smee for a brand-new adventure - packed full of action, gravity-defying flying scenes and laugh-out-loud comedy. Star casting to be announced!

Join young people from Sunderland dance and performing arts schools for our annual Dance Schools of Sunderland Festival!

Welcome to Burlesque the Musical, the glamorous, gritty and outrageously fun new musical based on the much-loved hit movie.

This cast certainly “Rocks” as it dances and sings its way through the most Professional Amateur Show in town!

Funny, fabulous and feel-good, this is the musical sensation for all the family and not to be missed! Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn’t quite fit in. Jamie is terrified about the future. Jamie is going to be a sensation. Supported by his brilliant loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness, into the spotlight. With an original score of catchy pop tunes by lead singer-songwriter of The Feeling, Dan Gillespie Sells and writer Tom MacRae (Doctor Who), this brand-new musical will have everybody talking about Jamie for years to come. Sixteen: the edge of possibility. Time to make your dreams come true.

The Proclaimers have carved a niche for themselves where pop, folk, new wave and punk collide as the emotional honesty, political fire, wit and sing-along raucousness of their songs has entertained fans across the world. Amongst their many accolades they have enjoyed Gold and Platinum singles and albums in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. 'My favourite band of all time. They write the most spectacular songs, big hearted, uncynical passionate songs.' -- David Tennant

Admiral Sandro returns victorious to Venice to prepare for his marriage to the daughter of the Doge

As in the 1997 smash hit film, this brand-new production is a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, laughs and heartbreak. Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the film on a major national tour.

Come and join us this summer at Sunderland Empire.

Join us for a musical theatre masterclass exploring script, songs and dance.

Seen by almost 12 million people across five continents and honoured with more than 80 awards worldwide, Billy Elliot the Musical is one of the most successful and beloved British musicals of all time. Ten years after it last played to audiences in its original home of London and the UK, this landmark production returns at last. Set in a northern town during the miners’ strike of 1984/5, the show follows Billy’s journey from the boxing ring to the ballet class, where he discovers a passion for dance that will change his life forever. As Billy dares to dream, his courage unites his family, inspires his community, and proves the transformative power of art. Brought to life by the award-winning creative team behind the film, with iconic music by Elton John, Billy Elliot is an extraordinary theatrical experience that has captivated audiences around the world. This is the musical that took the nation by surprise and went on to conquer the world. Praised as ‘Breathtaking. A dazzling 40-carat gem of a show’ (Daily Mail), ‘Dazzling. A triumph’ (Independent on Sunday) and ‘Pure magic’ (Sunday Express), Billy Elliot the Musical returns as exhilarating, hilarious and unforgettable as ever, a defining British production finally coming home.

Join us for a musical theatre masterclass exploring script, songs and dance.

The World’s Official No. 1 Eagles tribute returns for another outstanding show promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship. This phenomenal group of musicians have been touring for over two decades and remain true Eagles fanatics! Their longevity and continued international acclaim are due in no small part to their extraordinary mastery of the Eagles’ distinctive sound. Featuring the very best from the Eagles’ repertoire including Hotel California, Take it to the Limit, Life in the Fast Lane, Take It Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, Desperado and plenty more!

The world’s best-loved musical is back! Grittier and more glamorous than ever before. After a whirlwind summer romance, leather-clad greaser Danny and girl-next-door Sandy are unexpectedly reunited when she transfers to Rydell High for senior year. But can they survive the trials and tribulations of teenage life and find true love once more? With its phenomenal score, bursting with hits including Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, Hopelessly Devoted to You and You’re the One That I Want, this thrilling new version is brought to life by a fresh young cast who bring energy, vitality and passion to this ultimate musical classic. Reignite your passion and get ready for an explosion of summer loving. So round-up your Burger Palace Boys, pick up your Pink Ladies and re-discover why Grease really is the one that you want this term.

A new day has begun. A spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s multi award-winning musical CATS is coming to venues across the UK. From Euston station to Victoria Grove, the strays and rebels of London gather under the Jellicle moon in the hope they’ll be the chosen one. And each of them asks, because each of them dares, who will it be? Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, and with a legendary score which inspired generations featuring, Old Deuteronomy, Macavity: The Mystery Cat, Jellicle Ball and the chart-topping hit Memory, this brand-new production of CATS, directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie (Brigadoon, Jesus Christ Superstar) has arrived!

Join us for a beginner-friendly jazz inspired heels dance class.

Featuring a cast of West End singers and a live band, join us for a ‘Landslide’ concert, jam packed with Fleetwood Mac hits as you have never heard them before! This incredible show will feature best loved songs including ‘Little Lies’, ‘The Chain’, ‘Rhiannon’, ‘Don’t Stop’ and many more, performed by Candlelight. So ‘Go Your Own Way’ and book your tickets now as this really is the concert of ‘Dreams’!

The Best of Tim Burton & Dark Fantasy by Moonlight – an enchanting orchestral tribute brought to life by the Illuminated Orchestra, illuminated by a giant moon

Are you ready to bring one of the UK's leading crime presenters and bestselling authors to your stage?

Steve Steinman made his public debut when appearing on the UK's popular impersonation competition Stars In Their Eyes in 1993, going on to become the show's most successful contestant. Appearing as Meat Loaf and wowing audiences both in the studio and at home, it kickstarted a career that would see Steinman build a rock and roll legacy rivalling that of his hero. With an incredible stage set, ten-piece live band combined with Steve's well known sense of humour and stage presence, the show can only be described as awesome. The show will have you up on your feet dancing and singing out loud to some of Meat Loaf’s greatest hits including 'Anything for Love', 'Bat Out of Hell, 'Paradise by the Dashboard Light', 'Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth', 'Two Out of Three Ain't Bad', 'Dead Ringer for Love', 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' and many, many more.