6th August - 26th September
Sunderland Empire is the largest theatre in the North East of England and has an exciting lineup of events happening this summer. Scroll down to see what's on!
Burlesque The Musical
Thu 6 – Sat 22 Aug 2026
After taking the West End by storm — where it became summer 2025’s biggest hit, selling out night after night — Burlesque A BIG New Musical is coming to Sunderland in August.
From executive producer Christina Aguilera and written by Steven Antin, based on the hit 2010 movie starring Christina Aguilera and Cher, Burlesque invites you to a club like no other: a hidden world beneath the city lights where sequins sparkle, seduction shimmers and lives can change in the flick of a feather boa.
Book your tickets today – Burlesque The Musical Tickets | Sunderland Empire in Sunderland | ATG Tickets
Murderous Minds with Emma Kenny
Sat 5 Sep 2026
The nationwide sell-out success of Killer Couples, best-selling author, Psychologist, and leading crime commentator Emma Kenny returns with a brand-new live show that probes the darkest corners of humanity.
Murderous Minds takes you on a gripping journey into the twisted motivations of some of the UK's and the world's most notorious killers. With her extensive background in psychology and crime analysis, Emma Kenny offers a rare and credible window into how murderers justify the horrific acts they commit.
Book your tickets today – Murderous Minds with Emma Kenny Tickets | Sunderland Empire in Sunderland | ATG Tickets
The Simon and Garfunkel Story
Mon 7 Sep 2026
Few shows have experienced the phenomenal global success of The Simon & Garfunkel Story, with multiple sold-out shows in over 50-countries worldwide and over 20 headline performances in London’s West End, including multiple appearances at the world-famous London Palladium.
With standing ovations at every performance at the show Art Garfunkel himself loved, you don't want to miss this international sensation.
Book your tickets today – The Simon & Garfunkel Story Tickets | Sunderland Empire in Sunderland | ATG Tickets
Lord of the Dance: 30th Anniversary
Wed 9 – Sat 12 Sep 2026
Lord of the Dance, the global phenomenon that redefined Irish dance, is set to return to the United Kingdom in 2026 to celebrate its 30th Anniversary with an extraordinary new tour. This milestone event promises to be a grand celebration of the production’s legacy, captivating over 60 million fans in 60 countries since its debut in 1996.
Michael Flatley’s visionary show has been celebrated as a "showpiece extravaganza" and continues to awe audiences worldwide with its captivating blend of dance, music, and storytelling.
Book your tickets today – Lord of the Dance: 30th Anniversary Tickets | Sunderland Empire in Sunderland | ATG Tickets
An Orchestral Tribute to Tim Burton and Dark Fantasy by Moonlight
Mon 14 Sep 2026
An enchanting live performance of whimsical and otherworldly dark fantasy film music, brought to life by the Illuminated Orchestra, beneath the glow of a giant moon.
An 18-piece chamber orchestra perform unforgettable themes from: The Nightmare Before Christmas, Edward Scissorhands, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, Corpse Bride, Alice in Wonderland, Batman, Beetlejuice, The Addams Family and more.
Book your tickets today – An Orchestral Tribute to Tim Burton & Dark Fantasy by Moonlight Tickets | Sunderland Empire in Sunderland | ATG Tickets
Steve Steinman’s Anything For Love – The Meat Loaf Story
Fri 18 Sep 2026
Steve Steinman, the highly acclaimed show producer and No. 1 recording artist, brings you his smash-hit production Anything for Love.
With an extraordinary band, Steve’s powerhouse vocals, and a cast of captivating singers and dancers, audiences will be taken on an unforgettable journey back in time. Expect all the classics from Bat Out of Hell, including the Grammy Award–winning chart-topper I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That).
Book your tickets today – Steve Steinman's Anything for Love - The Meat Loaf Story Tickets | Sunderland Empire in Sunderland | ATG Tickets
Dirty Dancing
Tue 22 – Sat 26 Sep 2026
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.
See the hit film come to life before your eyes with this fantastic, emotional and triumphant live stage show.
Book your tickets today – Dirty Dancing Tickets | Sunderland Empire in Sunderland | ATG Tickets
The Music of Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight
Thu 1 Oct 2026
Direct from London's West End, and featuring a spectacular cast of world-class singers and epic live band, join us for a Landslide concert, jam packed with Fleetwood Mac hits, as you’ve never heard them before!
Th is incredible show will feature best loved songs including Little Lies, The Chain, Rhiannon, Don’t Stop and many more, performed at the beautiful Sunderland Empire, by candlelight.
Book your tickets today – The Music of Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight Tickets | Sunderland Empire in Sunderland | ATG Tickets