Rosie Ramsey praises 'wonderful' Customs House as she hopes for return of live theatre in 2021

The stage star, podcaster and author has shared her support for the Customs House and expressed concern at the lack of help for the arts as it remains closed to live audiences due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions.

It comes after the venue made her an honorary fellow earlier this year, with the award now in her possession after the presentation ceremony scheduled to take place for her and others bestowed the title was unable to be hosted due to the crisis.

In an Instagram post via her @rosemarinoramsey account, she thanked the South Shields theatre, cinema and arts space and said: “I’ve been performing here since I was a young girl and it’s never lost it’s sparkle and charm.

“It really is one of the most wonderful theatres. Feeling very chuffed and thankful right now.

"It’s been a really hard year for theatres and performers this year.

"We seem to have been completely overlooked since this whole mess began back in March.

“I hope and pray with every fibre of my being that the arts will return in 2021, and when we do we will be stronger than ever! Chin up folks!”

Rosie, who co-hosts the podcast Sh**ged, Married, Annoyed with comedian husband Chris Ramsey and due to welcome the arrival of a baby to join their son Robin, also called on people to support the Customs House’s festive production.

Arbuthnot and Dame Bella’s Christmas Adventure has been released on DVD and made available to stream to spread cheer.

She tweeted: “Our local theatre @thecustomshouse managed to stage a wonderful show this year.

"Robin has been watching it at school with his classmates and they all loved it. If you’re missing panto (like I am) then this should fill the spot nicely.”

Whitburn singer songwriter Nadine Shah, who released her fourth album Kitchen Sink this year, added her thanks to the venue for the title following the arrival of her title, which was also granted to IT company Aspire Nigel Begg at the same time.

She tweeted: "You’re the jewel in the crown of my hometown South Shields and I’m honoured … literally.”

More details about the Christmas show and its soundtrack CD can be found here: https://www.customshouse.co.uk/.

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