Tom Kelly play Baby Love returns to South Shields stage

Jarrow playwright Tom Kelly’s Baby Love was first staged at the Customs House 10 years ago.

It’s due to return to the venue, in Mill Dam, South Shields, on May 3 and 4.

The show, which includes hit songs from the 60s, follows young couple Shelley and Darren, who are pub singers on the North East club circuit.

She wants a baby but he doesn’t, at the minute.

Dad-of-three Tom, 68, said: “It’s that dilemma which is at the hub of the show.

“They’re singers around working men’s clubs, doing pop songs from the 60s which sort of echo their relationship – like the title track Baby Love by the Supremes.

“I first put the show on about 10 years ago at the Customs House and you never imagine they’ll come back around, but I was talking to the married couple who live next door to me, Jonathan and Helen Cash – they’re both actors and said they were looking for a play.

“I told them about Baby Love and they said they were interested in doing it. I think the story had a resonance for them.”

The grandad-of-one added: “The show is going on a little tour before it comes home to the Customs House and it’ll be great to see it back on the stage there.

“It’s something that a lot of people go through in their own relationships so I think it’s quite a universal and timeless story.

“It’s got lots of popular songs in it that people will enjoy too, like Only The Lonely, I Say A Little Prayer, I Got You Babe and My Girl.

“It’s a lot of fun and it’s got a lot of warmth.”

Tickets for Baby Love cost £11 with a £9 early bird concession or £21 for a meal deal. To book, go to www.customshouse.co.uk or call the box office on 0191 454 1234. The show will also be staged at the Arts Centre, Washington, and the Gala Theatre, Durham.