The Customs House in South Shields has announced its programme for July and August 2019. Alongside the usual mix of music, shows from local dance schools, the venue’s own summer school production of High School Musical and the annual South Tyneside Comedy Festival, there are a number of theatre highlights.
From 16 to 20 July, the theatre will present its own production of a new play by popular local writer Tom Kelly, Bobby Robson Saved My Life. It’s a play about football legend Sir Bobby’s influence on other people’s lives as a guide, role model and inspiration, the story of how he impacted on the lives of three very different people.
After the South Shields performances, it will transfer to Newcastle and Ipswich.
In August (21 to 31), the theatre’s 2016 hit musical The Dolly Mixtures will be revived with most of the same cast. It’s the story of eight ordinary North East women who toured the male-dominated social clubs, breaking down barriers and raising smiles, eyebrows and £100,000 for Cancer Research along the way. It will be directed by West End and TV star Mina Anwar (Everybody’s Talking about Jamie at the Crucible, Sheffield and the West End’s Apollo Theatre and The Thin Blue Line, The Bill, Shameless, Happy Valley and Coronation Street on TV).
For the school summer holidays, panto favourite Arbuthnot (Davey Hopper) returns in two shows: Arbuthnot and Pals’ Adventures in Oz, which is loosely based on The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, running from 23 to 25 July and Arbuthnot and Pals’ Super Happy Silly Mega Fun Gameshow on 15 and 16 August.
“This is a massive summer of shows and events for The Customs House and we have really pushed the boat out," said Ray Spencer, Executive Director of The Customs House.
“We are 25 this year and as a charity we really need your support. So please come down in your droves with your friends and family, organise a group of mates from work, or introduce someone new to our wonderful venue.”