We’ve rounded up 10 of the best shows and events taking place. For half-term specific events see here.
1. Shadowlands, Royalty Theatre, Sunderland, February 17-22
Sunderland’s Royalty Theatre’s Shadowlands, following the later years of the author famous for the Narnia series of books, until February 22. The play follows the relationship between CS Lewis, an Oxford academic and devout Christian, and his American wife Joy Davidman. Having built up a friendship through mail correspondence, they eventually meet in England and are eventually married. Tragedy soon follows, testing his faith. Director Andy Barella says, “I first read this beautiful script about 10 years ago and have longed to direct Shadowlands ever since. Many people will know the stories of C.S. Lewis, but not all will know of his faith and personal life, and that is what we get to explore through this show.” Lewis himself is played by Billy Towers, who is accompanied in the cast by Helen Bowie, Alex Goodchild and Jacob Hughes. | Other 3rd Party Photo: JPI Media
2. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sunderland Empire, February 18-22
Bill Kenwright’s production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s family musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, is at Sunderland Empire from February 18-22. Britain’s Got Talent 2019 finalist, Mark McMullan, dons Joseph’s famous coat after faultless performances of classic musical theatre songs earnt him a place in the final of the hit ITV show. Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of memorable songs including Go, Go, Go Joseph, Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me and more. | Other 3rd Party Photo: PAMELA RAITH
3. Model ship making, HMS Trincomalee, Hartlepool
The National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool has model ship building, pirate play ships, cannon firing, family trails and lots more exciting seafaring action for all mini sailors this February half term. Taking inspiration from two resident ships, HMS Trincomalee (the oldest warship still afloat in Europe) and RML 497 (a former rescue motor launch from World War II), visitors can create their own model sailing ship to take home, with assistance from the museum learning team. And you can test if it floats, too. These drop in craft sessions will run from February 18-20 from 11am until 1pm and from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. A family trail will also run until Sunday, February 23. | Other 3rd Party Photo: Submitted
4. Fire and Ice Festival, February 21 and 22
The Fire & Ice Festival returns to Durham City on Friday, February 21 and Saturday, February 22. This year its flame lit ice sculpture trail will have a travelling through time theme. Marvel at Stephenson's Rocket replicated in ice or at sculptures inspired by some time travelling fictional classics. The event is free for all the family to enjoy. | JPIMedia Photo: JPI Media