10 things to do this weekend from Annie to The Magic of Motown
From everyone’s favourite orphan Annie to the historic Houghton Feast, there’s plenty happening around the region this weekend.
By Katy Wheeler
Published 9th Oct 2019, 16:45 BST
Updated 11th Oct 2019, 11:13 BST
We’ve rounded up 10 of the top things to do.
5. Sunderland Libraries Literature Festival, until October 30
Each October Sunderland Libraries Literature Festival brings together a vibrant mix of authors, thinkers and artists to the city, providing inspiration and entertainment.This year’s festival is the perfect place to celebrate your love of literature with fellow fans, see your favourite local authors in action, and of course, discover new writers and illustrators, including talks, workshops, book launches and other events. This year’s line-up includes leading fiction, non-fiction, independent and emerging authors, including Mari Hannah, Glenda Young and Janet MacLeod Trotter. The majority of events are free, although donations are welcome. For further information about any event or booking or to keep updated with any changes to the programme visit the libraries section of the Sunderland Council website. Photo: Jpi media
Britain’s Got Talent finalist and ventriloquist, Steve Hewlett, will share the stage at Customs House, South Shields, with puppets Arthur Lager, Pongo and more when he performs at the South Tyneside International Magic Festival’s second gala show on Saturday 12 October.Steve fell in love with ventriloquism after seeing Jimmy Tamley win tv show New Faces in 1987 and went to the winner, who happened to live around the corner, for tips and mentorship. Since the age of 22 the entertainer has performed full time in pantomimes, on cruise ships and at holiday parks and toured with greats including Brian Conley, Ken Dodds and Keith Harris – who gifted him his Pongo puppet among others. He found wider acclaim when he finished fourth in the 2013 Britain’s Got Talent final after being brought back as Simon Cowell’s wildcard, going on to tour the US, UK and Canada with The Osmonds and supporting The Stylistics on their 50th anniversary tour. Photo: Magic Festival
The sensational hit West End musical is bringing its unique sound to Sunderland from October 15-26. Discover the story of Motown Records, when Berry Gordy with just $800 borrowed from his family, launched the careers of legendary artists including Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Temptations, and many more. Featuring over 50 classic hits including My Girl, What’s Going On, Dancing in the Street, I Heard It Through The Grapevine and Ain’t No Mountain High Enough. Photo: Motown The Musical UK tour
8. Jazz Singer Tour, Customs House, South Shields, October 13
Neil Diamond retired after an incredible career selling over 100 Million record worldwide. Neil’s best known and perhaps best loved album was released in 1981, The JAZZ SINGER, being the film score to his acting debut alongside Sir Lawrence Olivier. Diamond fans undoubtedly all have their favourite songs and these will also be in this performance starring John Hylton, but the pricinpal content is the complete Jazz Singer album. Performed at Customs House, South Shields, on October 13. Photo: Tour picture