21
DEC
2024
The Snowman in Concert at Glasshouse Gateshead
Experiencing The Snowman in concert at The Glasshouse Gateshead was an enchanting highlight of the festive season. This timeless Christmas classic, accompanied by the Royal Northern Sinfonia under the baton of Ellie Slorach, brought magic and warmth to the audience in a way only live music can.
The screening of the beloved 1982 animated film was elevated by the orchestra’s live performance of Howard Blake’s iconic score, perfectly synchronized with the visuals on the big screen. The heart-stirring Walking in the Air, featuring young soloists April Lister, Olive Matthews, Jacob Robinson, and William Hare, was a standout moment, drawing audible sighs of wonder from the crowd. The music’s delicate, twinkly charm captured the story’s magic, making it impossible not to feel transported to the snowy world of the boy and his snowman companion.
Adding a touch of playful fun, the program included In the Swamp by the Light of the Moon, a charming musical story by Iain Farrington. Presenter Eleanor Mooney brought the tale to life with infectious energy, encouraging the audience to sing along and join in the actions. It was a joyous moment that resonated with children and adults alike, while the narrative about friendship struck a heartfelt chord.
The relaxed performance, thoughtfully designed for younger audiences and those who benefit from a more informal environment, featured a British Sign Language interpreter, Sean Chandler, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility. With a shorter 60-minute runtime and no interval, it provided a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Glasshouse’s festive ambiance, combined with the orchestra’s exceptional talent, made for a memorable family outing. Whether it was hearing Jingle Bells performed with spirited enthusiasm or watching the poignant journey of The Snowman, every detail of the event felt meticulously crafted to spread holiday cheer.
For families seeking a heartwarming celebration of Christmas tradition, The Snowman in Concert was a magical experience that reminded us all of the joy of the season. Make sure to add this festive gem to your holiday calendar next year—it’s a must-see for children and the young at heart!
15th
DEC
2024
The Adventures of Peter Pan at Whitley Bay Playhouse
Pantomime season is in full swing, and The New Adventures of Peter Pan at The Playhouse Whitley Bay is a delightful addition to the festive calendar. Produced by Blue Genie Entertainment, this vibrant reimagining of the classic tale combines tradition, humor, and modern twists for a family-friendly spectacle that delivers on every level.
The story follows Jessica Darling (played with spirited charm by Sophie McKinnon) and her younger sister Angela (Charlotte Walls this performance), who are guided by their eccentric Aunt Patsy (Daniel Mawston) as they discover their family’s magical connection to Peter Pan. Their witty exchanges and cheeky humor immediately drew laughs from the audience, setting the tone for an engaging and energetic performance.
The journey to Neverland begins when Tinkerbell (Maria J Proud) whisks the Darling girls away to face Captain Hook (Darren Day) and his latest nefarious plans. Darren Day is a masterful Hook, combining camp charisma with wicked flair, drawing audible boos and laughter with every villainous move. He’s perfectly counterbalanced by Steve Walls as the loveable Smee, whose 14th year at the Playhouse solidifies his status as a pantomime favorite. Walls’ natural comic timing and interaction with the audience are a highlight, and his partnership with the hilariously absurd Starkey (Luke David Martin) is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Harry Downes impresses as a confident and dashing Peter Pan, while Maria J Proud brings a lively sparkle to Tinkerbell. Mawston’s Aunt Patsy delivers cheeky humor for adults and playful antics for kids, making her a standout character. The ensemble, featuring a mix of seasoned performers and rising talent, brings infectious energy to the stage, ensuring the show remains lively and engaging from start to finish.
Visually, the production dazzles. Caitlin Brown’s costumes are vibrant and creative, culminating in a spectacularly coordinated finale. Dan Stratford’s animated lighting design enhances the magic, with an impressive proscenium arch and atmospheric effects that bring Neverland to life. The essential flying sequences are well-executed, delighting the audience and adding to the wonder of the production.
The pacing is brisk and entertaining, with no dull moments. The show skillfully balances humor for all ages, from slapstick comedy and action-packed scenes for kids to clever asides for adults. There’s no excessive sentimentality, ensuring the younger audience stays fully engaged throughout. While the final number before the grand finale felt slightly superfluous, it didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the show.
Blue Genie Entertainment has once again delivered a top-tier pantomime full of heart, humor, and high-energy performances.
The New Adventures of Peter Pan runs at The Playhouse Whitley Bay until 4th January 2025, with a British Sign Language Relaxed Performance on 4th January at 1 pm. Tickets start at £21 + fees and are available online or at the box office.
This production is a joyful escape to Neverland and a must-see for families this festive season. Don’t miss out!
11
DEC
2024
Christmas at the Musicals at Glasshouse Gateshead
There’s something magical about combining the drama of Broadway, the timeless charm of the West End, and the festive cheer of Christmas – and Christmas at the Musicals at The Glasshouse Gateshead delivered all of this and more. With the Royal Northern Sinfonia at its heart and a star-studded lineup of vocalists, the evening was a masterclass in showmanship and seasonal joy.
Led by the charismatic conductor Stuart Morley, the Royal Northern Sinfonia filled the Sage One stage with lush, sweeping arrangements that perfectly underscored the vocal brilliance of Stephanie McKeon, Alice Fearn, Jon Robyns, and Scott Davies. From the first notes of Company to the final, heartwarming strains of White Christmas, the night was a journey through some of the most iconic and beloved musical numbers.
Highlights included Alice Fearn’s powerhouse rendition of Defying Gravity from Wicked, which brought the house down, and Jon Robyns’ soulful take on You Will Be Found from Dear Evan Hansen, a moment that left many visibly moved. Stephanie McKeon’s Let It Go was a sparkling standout, her crystal-clear voice perfectly capturing the magic of Frozen.
The ensemble’s chemistry was palpable during duets such as Baby It’s Cold Outside and The Prayer, which blended harmonies with emotional depth. Scott Davies shone in his signature number, Music of the Night from The Phantom of the Opera, captivating the audience with his rich tones and commanding stage presence.
Adding to the festive atmosphere were holiday classics like It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas and White Christmas, which had the audience humming along. The Sinfonia’s accompaniment gave these well-loved tunes a lush, cinematic quality that made them feel fresh and exhilarating.
Visually, the evening was a feast for the eyes, with glittering ballgowns, sharp tuxedos, and lighting that shifted effortlessly between dramatic and celebratory. The intimate yet grand ambiance of the Glasshouse made the experience all the more special, drawing the audience into the heart of each performance.
At two hours, including a 20-minute interval, the pacing was perfect, leaving the audience both satisfied and craving more. For families, musical theatre fans, and festive revelers alike, Christmas at the Musicals was an unforgettable evening of talent, passion, and holiday spirit.
If you missed this event, make sure to keep an eye on The Glasshouse’s calendar for future productions. With evenings like this, it’s clear they know how to create magic on stage.
7th
DEC
2024
Home Alone in Concert at Glasshouse Gateshead
The iconic Home Alone has always been a staple of Christmas nostalgia, but experiencing it with a live orchestra brought an entirely new level of magic to this beloved holiday tradition. Presented at The Glasshouse Gateshead, Home Alone in Concert was a heartwarming blend of humour, music, and festive cheer that captivated audiences of all ages.
The evening featured the Royal Northern Sinfonia, conducted by Ernst van Tiel, performing John Williams’ enchanting score live as the movie played on a big screen. From the first notes of Somewhere in My Memory to the playful, mischievous tones of Kevin’s escapades, the orchestra perfectly captured the film’s whimsical yet heartwarming spirit. The addition of Voices of the River’s Edge, the Glasshouse’s choir for 18-35 year olds, elevated the experience with a beautifully moving rendition of the main theme.
Hearing Williams’ signature sleigh bells, twinkling melodies, and sweeping orchestral arrangements live added depth and richness to every scene. The music’s emotional nuances—joyful, suspenseful, and tender—enhanced the storytelling, making even well-known moments feel fresh and engaging.
Watching Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) outwit the hapless burglars Harry and Marv (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) on the big screen was just as hilarious and endearing as ever. Paired with the live performance, it created a fully immersive experience that had the audience laughing, gasping, and occasionally wiping away a tear.
The event was expertly timed, with a 20-minute interval in the middle of its 2-hour-and-10-minute runtime, allowing families to grab refreshments and soak in the festive atmosphere. The Glasshouse provided the perfect setting, with its excellent acoustics and cozy yet grand ambiance adding to the charm.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Home Alone or introducing it to the next generation, this concert was a truly magical way to celebrate the season. Combining the timeless humor and heart of the film with the live energy of a world-class orchestra made for an unforgettable evening.
For anyone who loves classic Christmas movies and stunning live music, Home Alone in Concert at The Glasshouse was a match made in holiday heaven. Be sure to keep an eye on future events—you won’t want to miss what they have in store!
28
NOV
2024
The Little Mermaid at Newcastle Theatre Royal
The festive season in Newcastle wouldn’t be complete without the Theatre Royal pantomime, and this year’s offering of The Little Mermaid is nothing short of spectacular. With Danny Adams and Clive Webb returning for their 19th Michael Harrison production, they’ve once again delivered a show brimming with hilarity, heart, and high production value. Impressively, this year’s panto strikes a perfect balance, blending laugh-out-loud antics with a compelling storyline—a step up even from their recent successes.
The production dives straight in with Chris Hayward’s spellbinding performance as The Sea Witch, setting the tone for a magical evening. Known for his comedic brilliance, Chris has truly come into his own as a masterful panto villain, reveling in his dark, deliciously evil role. His vocal talents also shine here, giving co-star Joe McElderry (Dishy Fishy) some healthy competition in the singing stakes.
The plot follows Prince Eric (Christian Maynard), rescued at sea by Ariel (Maggie Lynne) but unable to thank her before she disappears back underwater. Determined to find her, Eric faces obstacles from King Triton (Wayne Smith) and The Sea Witch, who’s aided by her sly hench-eels, Eileen (Kylie Ann Ford) and Elsie (Christina Berriman Dawson). Alongside them, Danny Crabstix (Danny Adams) and Clive Cod (Clive Webb) provide plenty of laughs and support for Ariel’s quest, while McElderry’s Dishy Fishy delights with his signature vocal interludes.
The ensemble cast is a dream team of local favourites who know exactly how to connect with their audience. Danny Adams’ impeccable timing and innate "funny bones" are as sharp as ever, with Clive Webb getting more stage time this year to balance the hijinks. Mick Potts also makes a memorable impression, adding to the show’s infectious energy.
Chris Hayward’s costumes are, as always, jaw-dropping—a visual feast of glitz and grandeur. From his fabulous gowns to his menacing stage presence, he’s every bit the standout performer. Meanwhile, the production’s special effects elevate the spectacle further, with stunning moments like a flying mermaid, a seahorse-drawn carriage, and an impressive shark sequence. The integration of The Twins FX and Ben Cracknell’s lighting design (including clever black light techniques) ensures each scene dazzles.
The classic panto staples are all here, from the chaotic 12 Days of Christmas to an uproariously messy routine. Yet, there’s a refreshing focus on storytelling this year, making the entire production feel more cohesive.
If there’s one minor critique, it’s that the sound levels occasionally veer into rock concert territory, which might be a touch overwhelming for some.
Overall, The Little Mermaid is an unmissable show—a perfect combination of storytelling, comedy, and jaw-dropping production values. With Chris Hayward stealing the spotlight as the gloriously wicked Sea Witch, this year’s panto is a treasure Newcastle is lucky to call its own.
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