We’ve rounded up 10 of the best shows and events taking place. For half-term specific events see here.
5. Lionel Richie tribute, Customs House, South Shields, February 22
A singer is bringing his tribute to the music of Lionel Richie and The Commodores to The Customs House in South Shields on February 22. Malcolm Pitt has appeared alongside Lionel Richie himself, on ITV’s Sunday Night at the Palladium in 2014 and on Graham Norton’s BBC show Totally Saturday in 2009. Now he’s performing in Lionel: A Tribute to Lionel Richie. The award-winning five-star production also features a stellar line-up of musicians, including musical director Jonny Miller, who shares lead vocals and plays bass
guitar and piano in Eagles tribute band, Talon. Photo: Submitted
6. Aida, Billingham Forum, February 23
After its successful season of Madama Butterfly, Carmen and La Traviata last year, Russian State Opera returns with the premiere of Opera, Aida at Billingham Forum on February 23. The brand-new production promises sumptuous sets and splendid new costumes. Verdi brings the ancient Egypt on stage with evolving love story at the backdrop of war. The princess of Ethiopia (Aida) falls in love with the Egyptian General (Radames) and he is also besotted by her. Radames is chosen to lead the war with Ethiopia by the king and Aida is left to choose between her lover or her father and her country. Photo: Submitted
7. Sniffy and Whiffy Adventure, Customs House, South Shields, February 19-21
Arbuthnot and Pals’ Sniffy and Whiffy Adventure runs from Wednesday, February 19 to Friday, February 21, at 11am, 2pm and 6pm at Customs House, South Shields. The Customs House panto spin-off shows have proved hugely popular over the last three years and the team are back with Arbuthnot and Pals’ Sniffy and Whiffy Adventure this February half term. The show has been written by Davey Hopper, who also stars as Arbuthnot, and Dale Jewitt and will be co-directed by Davey and Charlie Raine. Tickets, priced £8.50, are available from the box office on (0191) 454 1234. Photo: Submitted
8. Puddle jumping championships, Washington Wetland Centre, until February 23
Families are being invited to take part in the North East Puddle Jumping Championships. Competitors will be able to warm up in the puddle-jumping practice zone before challenging family and friends to a race around the Welly Boot Camp obstacle course – complete with a puddle jumping finale. The event will run until 23 February with any age welcome to take part. There are varying levels of difficulty throughout the obstacle course, and grown-ups will be needed to help smaller children. Photo: Submitted