The List

The Customs House

Established in 1848, Customs House now features a 441 seat theatre, 145 seat studio, gallery, bar and restaurant. The cinema shows a mixture of new and classic films, with special Movie Meal Deal offers available. There is free parking opposite the venue if travelling to the venue by car. The South Shields Metro Station is also only a short walk away as is Market Place, where all buses to South Shields stop. If travelling via the river then the Shields Ferry Terminal is only 300 yards walk away.

What's On @ The Customs House

King Of Pop

King Of Pop

9 Oct 2026 - 9 Oct 2026

This incredible production stars the world’s leading MJ tribute artist Navi who is joined on stage by Michael Jackson’s iconic guitarist - Jennifer Batten. Navi is regarded as the world’s No.1 MJ tribute artist and was handpicked by Michael himself as his official body double. Michael also hired Navi to perform at two of his birthday parties where he gave Navi a standing ovation and described his performance as “Incredible”. Navi was also chosen by Hollywood and received critical acclaim after starring in the MJ movie “Michael Jackson – Searching For Neverland”. Jennifer was Michael’s "right-hand woman" on three sell-out world tours. She was initially chosen to play on the Bad Tour but Michael was so impressed that she joined him on the road for the next 10 years, playing on his Dangerous and History world tours to more than 4.5 million fans worldwide. She also appeared on the famous Super Bowl performance. Now, Jennifer has teamed up with Navi for an unforgettable experience - taking fans closer than ever dreamed to an original MJ concert. Featuring all the greatest hits along with an incredible live band and dancers.
Sleeping Beauty

Sleeping Beauty

20 Nov 2026 - 2 Jan 2027

Chaos is coming to Cooksonville as the beloved story of Sleeping Beauty is retold with a Customs House twist. When the dastardly fairy Narcissus curses the Palace, Dame Bella and the ever-eager Dennis are thrown into a race against time. Their task? Hunt down every last spinning wheel before the Princess reaches her date with destiny. Their quest is anything but simple. Along the way, they plunge into a whirlwind of magical mishaps, unexpected allies, and the fearsome might of Archimedes the dragon whose roar is only matched by the chaos he unleashes. Bursting with song, slapstick, and the signature Customs House sparkle, this riotous adventure brings together all your favourite panto ingredients for a spectacular, family-friendly show. In a land where fairies feud, heroes blunder and dragons lurk, only true courage — and a lot of laughter — can save the day.
Sleeping Beauty (Young at Heart)

Sleeping Beauty (Young at Heart)

11 Dec 2026 - 11 Dec 2026

Chaos is coming to Cooksonville as the beloved story of Sleeping Beauty is retold with a Customs House twist. When the dastardly fairy Narcissus curses the Palace, Dame Bella and the ever-eager Dennis are thrown into a race against time. Their task? Hunt down every last spinning wheel before the Princess reaches her date with destiny. Their quest is anything but simple. Along the way, they plunge into a whirlwind of magical mishaps, unexpected allies, and the fearsome might of Archimedes the dragon whose roar is only matched by the chaos he unleashes. Bursting with song, slapstick, and the signature Customs House sparkle, this riotous adventure brings together all your favourite panto ingredients for a spectacular, family-friendly show. In a land where fairies feud, heroes blunder and dragons lurk, only true courage — and a lot of laughter — can save the day. NO CHILDREN WILL BE ADMITTED TO THIS PERFORMANCE
T!ts Up

T!ts Up

1 Oct 2026 - 1 Oct 2026

Three women. Three lives. One fight! Tina is a devoted mother, Rachel, a career driven businesswoman and Rosie a rebellious spirit. They couldn’t be more different. But when breast cancer brings them together, they find strength, laughter and resilience in the most unlikely of places Oncology Outpatients!! “Tits Up” is a powerfully funny and deeply moving play about life, choices and the bonds that get us through the rollercoaster of emotions felt by anyone who has ever travelled this road Crissy Rock - Leah Bell – Alison Stanley
Jason Cook in Conversation with Ed Bye
RTS North East & The Borders presents…Jason Cook in Conversation with Ed Bye Join us for a special evening with one of British comedy’s most influential figures, as Jason Cook sits down with legendary director and producer Ed Bye. From Bottom and Red Dwarf to Death on the Tyne, Murder They Hope, My Family, French & Saunders, AbFab, Vicar of Dibley, Canned Carrott and Kevin & Perry Go Large. Ed will take audiences behind the scenes of the shows that defined generations of comedy. Expect candid stories, insights into working with some of the biggest names in TV, and plenty of laughs along the way. There’ll be an audience Q&A if you’ve got any questions. If nothing else it’ll be a hilarious chat between two old (one older than the other) and hilarious (we hope!) friends (actual friendship under constant review) Presented by RTS North East & Borders, sponsored by Schnoobert Productions.
Joe McElderry

Joe McElderry

17 Jun 2026 - 22 Nov 2026

Always a favourite with his 24-carat voice and the diamond personality, Joe returns once again with his brand new Celebrate the Music tour. Join us for an incredible fun-filled evening with one of the country’s most beloved singers, celebrating music from a wide range of genres and eras.
The UK Rock Show

The UK Rock Show

16 May 2026 - 26 Feb 2027

Get ready to be transported back to the 80s heyday of classic rock, combining the feel of a rock festival with the atmosphere of a top end rock arena tour. Expect fireworks, flames, amazing lighting and exacting attention to detail as this amazing 5 piece band, who have numerous recording credits and having travelled the Globe extensively, recreate hits from rock gods such as Journey, Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Kiss, AC/DC, Van Halen and many more! If you are a fan of live classic rock this is the show for you! From the producers of the hugely popular Bon Jovi Forever ‘One Wild Night Tour’ Harder Rock Productions is Proud to bring you ‘The UK Rock Show’
Flowers & Friendship Bracelets

Flowers & Friendship Bracelets

21 Jun 2026 - 20 Feb 2027

The Ultimate Pop Concert! Get ready for a dazzling explosion of music, dance, and excitement as Flowers and Friendship Bracelets takes to the stage! Come and join us for the ultimate pop concert and celebrate the biggest hits from five of the hottest artistes of the moment. Let's 'Shake it Off' to our very own Taylor Swift; sing along to 'Flowers' with Miley Cyrus; dust off all our best dance moves to 'Vampires' with Olivia Rodrigo, and not forgetting the unstoppable Sabrina Carpenter performing all her top hits such as 'Espresso'. Plus Chappell Roan who's HOT TO GO! Watch the girls delight the audience in this incredible concert with a huge pop party to finish the show. Flowers and Friendship Bracelets creates unforgettable memories for children and families. This show is the ultimate concert experience! So, grab your tickets today! ... and don't forget those friendship bracelets! See you at the show!
Scott Bennett: Stuff

Scott Bennett: Stuff

12 May 2026 - 6 Jun 2027

As a society we love stuff, it’s a statement about who we are and who we want to be. But apparently, this message is at odds with the looming environmental crisis. We’re now struggling to balance these worlds, to focus on the things that bring us real connections and nourish the soul. Award-winning comedian and award-winning droduct designer Scott Bennett is desperately trying to cleanse his life of stuff, but is this even possible anymore? Tour support for Mickey Flanagan, Rob Brydon, Jason Manford and John Bishop. Star of Live at the Apollo, The News Quiz, The Now Show, The Ultimate Choice and Chortle Best Club Comedian Nominee 2022.
Jason Cook's Comedy Club June

Jason Cook's Comedy Club June

5 Jun 2026 - 6 Jun 2026

Join Jason Cook as the host of his comedy club, which brings huge TV names, daft guests and incredible surprises to The Customs House. The biggest names in comedy at the biggest comedy club in the north.
Jason Cook's NYE Comedy Club

Jason Cook's NYE Comedy Club

31 Dec 2026 - 31 Dec 2026

Join Jason Cook this New Year's Eve as the host of his comedy club, which brings huge TV names, daft guests and incredible surprises to The Customs House. The biggest names in comedy at the biggest comedy club in the north.
Remix: 15 years of Spotlight Dance

Remix: 15 years of Spotlight Dance

17 May 2026 - 17 May 2026

Celebrate 15 amazing years of Spotlight Dance Academy with us! This high-energy production highlights our incredible dancers as they take you on a journey through dynamic music remixes, blending the best of every genre, era, and artist into one unforgettable show.
The Pitmen Poets

The Pitmen Poets

27 Jun 2026 - 27 Jun 2026

Ex-Lindisfarne singer and songwriter Billy Mitchell, Warhorse Songman, renowned singer and instrumentalist Bob Fox, and Award winning Durham songwriter Jez Lowe, individually and collectively celebrating the triumphs, tragedy, and humour of the North East’s industrial heritage, in an evening of great music.
Drag Me to the 80s

Drag Me to the 80s

12 Jun 2026 - 12 Jun 2026

As part of OUT North East’s Summer of Pride celebrations. Meet the cast of our 80s Divas and join us on an unforgettable journey as this amazing production delivers a dazzling fusion of nostalgia, empowerment and a celebration of the extraordinary. Get ready to dance, sing and be captivated by the powerhouse vocals of the queens who redefine the stage and bring the spirit of the 80’s roaring back to life. The show features an incredible full live band and the music of Kylie, Madonna, Whitney, Bananarama , Queen, Abba, Rick Astley, Pet Shop Boys , Erasure, Duran Duran, Wham, Tina Turner and many more.
The King's Voice: Gordon Hendricks as Elvis
In Stoke on Trent in the early seventies, a young Gordon Hendricks played to an imaginary crowd. Harmonizing his voice to a constant soundtrack, played on repeat by his sisters. The music was Rock n Roll. The Artist was Elvis. Little did he know then that his performance in his potteries home would lead to a phenomenal career impersonating The King, working with his legendary musicians in years to come. Karaoke led to ITV’s ‘Stars in their Eyes’ where he rose from runner-up to series champion winning by a record number of votes. Watched by 12 million viewers astounded by their ears and eyes. And it wasn’t just the public. Elvis’ own songwriter Geoff Morrow was watching. Touched by Gordon’s voice that “recaptured the spirit of the song”, Geoff signed Gordon to his label and the two recorded and released “Where Will I Be”, a song originally written for Elvis. Gordon’s received many accolades. The greatest being crowned ‘Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artiste Champion 2017’ on stage at Graceland for the second time, competing against global artists. He’s toured the world and now he’s coming home. ‘The King’s Voice” tour transports you through time from the ‘68 special through to the Vegas era, breathing soul into ballads and those iconic jumpsuit numbers that set the stage on fire. There’s only one Elvis Presley and there’s only one artiste who captures his spirit on stage – the inimitable Gordon Hendricks.
Buddy Holly & The Cricketers

Buddy Holly & The Cricketers

25 Jun 2026 - 18 Feb 2027

All Holly’s hits and classics from his rock ’n’ roll pals are played live on stage by these five amazing young actor-musicians, who always delight crowds with their fabulous show. Featuring raw rock ’n’ roll, beautifully haunting ballads, energetic performances – and some genuinely hilarious moments – there is no live event that delivers a better Buddy experience. Audiences of all ages all over the globe have found it impossible to stay in their seats. From Dundee to Dubai, Swansea to Sweden, Taunton to Thailand and all across the USA, thousands of fans have shown their appreciation with standing ovations and shouts for “more!” So, whether you’re young in years or young at heart, this night with Buddy and the boys really is guaranteed to have everyone singing along to the music and dancing in the aisles. Whatever the season, whatever the excuse to party, Everyday is a Holly Day with Buddy Holly and The Cricketers!
Swan Lake - Crown Ballet

Swan Lake - Crown Ballet

26 Sept 2026 - 7 Oct 2026

Crown Ballet returns to the UK to enchant you with the delightful production of Swan Lake. Swan Lake is one of Tchaikovsky’s best works, featuring some of ballet’s most memorable music and breath-taking dance. Swan Lake is a tale of two young women, Odette and Odile, who resembles each other so strikingly one can easily be mistaken for the other. It is the compelling legend of a tragic romance in which a princess, Odette, is turned into a swan by an evil curse. Prince Siegfried chances upon a flock of swans while out hunting. When one of the swans turns into a beautiful young woman, he is instantly captivated – will his love prove strong enough to break the evil spell that she is under? Swan Lake is full of mystery and romance and has captured the imagination of generations over the years and it continues to attract worldwide audiences, young and old. A wonderful evening out and memories which you will cherish long after the final curtain falls!
Bon Jovi Forever

Bon Jovi Forever

20 Jun 2026 - 21 May 2027

The only Bon Jovi tribute show you need to see! A high energy, electric packed show guaranteed to raise your hands. BJF are committed to reviving the 80/90s style show, receiving rave reviews from fans and venue's all over the UK. Every performance is action packed and delivered with the artistry, energy and Passion of the real thing, A stunning stage show coupled with effects and explosions will make you believe you're watching the real Bon Jovi from back in their heyday. This show is guaranteed to give any fan of Bon Jovi ‘One Wild Night’.
An Evening with Sunderland Legends Peter Reid and Kevin Phillips
An Evening with Sunderland Legends Featuring Peter Reid & Kevin Phillips Step into the heart of Black Cats history for a night that every true Sunderland fan will remember. Join two of the club’s most iconic figures — manager Peter Reid and goal machine Kevin Phillips — as they relive the passion, drama, and unforgettable moments that defined an era. Hear untold dressing room stories, relive promotion battles and Premier League glory, enjoy insight, laughs, and raw honesty from two legends of the red and white. There’s also a no-hold-barred live audience Q&A – your chance to ask the questions. VIP Tickets Available - Upgrade your experience and get closer to the legends with: event ticket with early entry, exclusive VIP lanyard, meet & greet with Peter Reid & Kevin Phillips, professional photo with the players to take home on the night, digital photo download available within 24 hours – perfect for sharing on social media This isn’t just an event – it's a celebration of Sunderland’s soul. Tickets are limited — secure yours now before they’re gone. Because nights like this don’t come around often… and neither do legends like these. Disclaimer: This event is suitable for ages 14+. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
BEATLEMANIA Live in Concert

BEATLEMANIA Live in Concert

6 Sept 2026 - 6 Sept 2026

BEATLEMANIA LIVE IN CONCERT Come together, right now – it’s time to shake it up baby with the concert show of the year! The sensational BEATLEMANIA features an incredible cast that not only look and sound like John, Paul, George, and Ringo, they also generate that same, famed incredible excitement that was the trademark of the greatest group the world has ever seen – with the Fab Four’s unique sense of humour thrown in for good measure too. Enjoy 'She Loves You', 'A Hard Day’s Night', 'Help!', 'I Feel Fine', 'Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band', 'Hey Jude', 'Here Comes the Sun', 'Get Back' and so many more non-stop chart toppers. Playing to ecstatic sell-out audiences all over the world - and now touring the nation, Beatlemania is all you need for an unforgettable night of crowd-pleasing, million-selling, musical memories. So, let it be and get your tickets now!
Dennis' Wicked Adventure in Oz

Dennis' Wicked Adventure in Oz

6 Aug 2026 - 8 Aug 2026

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! Whilst tending to Dame Bella’s allotment, everyone’s favourite dafty, Dennis (Glen Richard Townsend) is swept up by a terrible tornado and transported to a magical land over the rainbow – Oz! But it isn’t long before things go wrong and the wickedest witch there ever was casts spell to take away his brain! With the help of his new friends, will Dennis get his brain back and find his way home for good? After all, there’s no place like Cooksonville! Follow the yellow brick road to The Customs House in February 2026 for ’DENNIS’ WICKED ADVENTURE IN OZ’ – a family show full of heart, courage, songs and silliness for munchkins of all ages!
Go Your Own Way - The Fleetwood Mac Legacy
Go Your Own Way is a spellbinding show featuring the music from the legendary multiple Grammy Award Winning Fleetwood Mac. Their rock n roll legacy is beautifully performed by a highly talented and acclaimed ensemble of musicians who will take audiences on a powerful journey through their incredible song book. With hits including “Dreams”, “Don’t Stop”, “Everywhere”, “Rhiannon”, “Gold Dust Woman”, “Little Lies”, “Big Love” and many more. Paying tribute to their “Rumours” line up of Stevie, Mick, John, Christine & Lindsey, which remains their most commercially successful to date, this show perfectly recreates the live energy and passion of Fleetwood Mac. Touring UK theatres 2026/27
James Phelan: The Man Who Was Magic

James Phelan: The Man Who Was Magic

2 Jul 2026 - 27 Feb 2027

Dare to believe in magic as the UK's #1 magic show returns with a completely new and uplifting production for 2027. You're invited to a night of wonder, as secrets unravel and the impossible becomes possible. Following an unprecedented 5 years of sold-out shows around the world - this five star magic show guarantees to leave you aching with laughter & dizzy in disbelief. Presented by world-renowned award winning magician James Phelan, the first magician in history to sell out a solo-run at The Magic Circle - and most infamous for jamming the BBC switchboard after he correctly predicted the lottery.
Fireman Sam Live! - The Lost Pirate Treasure
Norman Price is determined to win the Pontypandy Treasure Hunt, but when he discovers clues to a real pirate treasure, he goes exploring deep into the caves. It's up to Fireman Sam, Elvis and Ellie to save the day and find the treasure. With clues, pirate songs and plenty of swashbuckling adventure, Fireman Sam's new live show is perfect for all budding pirates! Live Show Ahoy! Produced by Mark Thompson Productions in partnership with Mattel. Directed by Miranda Larson. 
911

911

17 Sept 2026 - 17 Sept 2026

911 30th Anniversary Tour – Live Pop Concert 2026 Get ready to dust off the curtains and practice those backflips. 911, one of the most explosive pop acts of the 1990s, are officially celebrating 30 years at the top. From winning Lorraine’s The Next Big Thing in 1996 to racking up 10 million record sales, Lee Brennan, Jimmy Constable, and Simon “Spike” Dawbarn are proving that the party never stops. With a 2026 calendar packed with a major arena tour and a headline anniversary run, 911 are back—and they’ve never been more relevant.
TCH Summer School present We Will Rock You
The Customs House Summer School proudly presents our amateur production of Queen and Ben Elton’s worldwide hit musical WE WILL ROCK YOU at The Customs House from 28-30 August. Globally recognized, this awe-inspiring rebel rousing musical has attracted over 15 million theatregoers in 17 countries and features Queen’s biggest hits including We Are The Champions, Radio Ga Ga, I Want To Break Free, Somebody To Love, Killer Queen, Don’t Stop Me Now, Under Pressure, Bohemian Rhapsody, Another One Bites The Dust and, of course, WE WILL ROCK YOU. Come see The Customs House Summer School amateur production of this champion of musicals WE WILL ROCK YOU and cheer on as Ben Elton’s script and the classic songs of Queen continue to rock the world. Don’t miss it! We Will Rock You is presented through special arrangement with and all authorised performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide (TRW). www.theatricalrights.co.uk
Michael Mather - 365 "Home Edition"

Michael Mather - 365 "Home Edition"

15 May 2026 - 15 May 2026

Coming home to share his story through music, spoken word and storytelling for one night only. 365' is an honest, raw and deeply vulnerable show about growing up in South Shields, moving to the big city, falling in love, losing himself to addiction, finding recovery and choosing to live. Support from CRANE HOUSE
Cherryade Supernova by Andrew Finnigan
Josie’s throwing a house party. Not by choice obviously, but because her Mam has told her to. Josie is mortified but her best mate Josh, seizing the opportunity to prove to people that they aren’t total losers, instantly drafts up a flawless Facebook event and invites everyone from College. All squashed in Josie’s sitting room, we see how she battles through the night and navigates the stress of trying to keep everyone happy. So, there’s Cherryade in the fridge, fish fingers in the oven and a stray cat in the bathroom. Here’s to being cool!
Thank Abba for the Music

Thank Abba for the Music

4 Oct 2026 - 4 Oct 2026

Grab your platforms and flares for a journey back in time to when ABBA dominated the charts and ruled the airwaves. Featuring all of ABBA's greatest and most memorable hits, Thank ABBA For The Music really is the ultimate feel good, party style tribute concert. This two-hour theatre spectacular really does capture all the magic and excitement of one of the world's most successful and entertaining live bands. With superb vocals and clever ABBA trademark harmonies throughout, stunning replica stage costumes, a light sprinkling of tongue-in-cheek Swedish humour and plenty of audience participation, you're sure to be having the time of your life! The band is backed throughout by interactive video projection which, at regular points throughout the show, depicts key moments throughout ABBA's musical career together with clips of interviews from celebrities and music experts alike. All of ABBA's greatest and most memorable hits are here including Dancing Queen, Waterloo, Take A Chance On Me, Mamma Mia, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!, Knowing Me Knowing You, Super Trouper, The Winner Takes It All, Does Your Mother Know, Fernando, Lay All Your Love On Me, Chiquitita, Money Money Money and many, many more. ABBA and 70’s fancy dress is optional (but certainly adds to the fun) …
Antic Monkeys

Antic Monkeys

27 May 2026 - 27 May 2026

As part of TAKEOVER 2026 we bring you Antic Monkeys. Comprised of dedicated, experienced musicians who share a deep admiration for Sheffield-based Indie Rock combo Artic Monkeys, ‘Antic Monkeys’ deliver an authentic live experience with a faithful reproduction of the Monkeys back catalogue. From the garage rock sound of the debut album through to the more polished sound of ‘AM’. With a setlist that includes hit songs like ‘I bet you look good on the dancefloor’, ‘Do I wanna know’ and ‘Mardy bum’, this band continue to excite on stages across the UK be it at festivals, venues, clubs or private events, ‘Antic Monkeys’ are becoming one of the most sought after tributes on the scene today. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.
Behind Closed Doors

Behind Closed Doors

1 Aug 2026 - 1 Aug 2026

A raw and intimate two hander exploring a gay relationship pushed to breaking point. When Charlie uncovers Jude’s secrets, a late-night confrontation spirals into something far more dangerous. As trust collapses, themes of addiction, violence and suicide rise to the surface; exposing the fragile line between love and control. Behind Closed Doors is an unflinching look at emotional abuse, obsession and the devastating impact of betrayal. Stripped back and intense, the piece places audiences inside a relationship unravelling in real time; asking how far someone can be pushed before everything fractures beyond repair. Written by: Corey Muizelaar, Directed by: Jason Marc Williams Starring: Corey Muizelaar & Ben Robert Cunningham Trigger Warnings: Domestic Violence, Drug Use, Scenes of a sexual nature, addiction, emotional abuse, suicide, self harm.

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