South Shields’ Customs House has announced its season for September and October, featuring a lot of music, comedy and magic in addition to the theatre/dance programme. Theatre highlights are:
When the Boat Comes In Part 2: The Hungry Years
Running from 12 to 28 September, based on the TV series created by James Mitchell and adapted for the stage by his son Peter Mitchell, this sequel to last year's Customs House hit tells how, having broken up with his soulmate, Jessie Seaton, former Army Sergeant Jack Ford finds he has new battles to fight. Married now to Dolly and with a child on the way, he has no job, no prospects and no hope of escape. The 'twenties are no longer roaring on Tyneside, the region is hit by an economic slump and the promise of a 'land fit for heroes' turns out to be as empty as the pockets of the men who returned from the Great War.
The Nutcracker
This classic ballet, performed by the Russian National Ballet, comes to the Customs House for one night only on Sunday 6 October.
Macbeth: Toil and Trouble
At 11:00 and 1:00 on 16 October, 1623 Theatre Company’s hour-long adaptation of Macbeth charts the course of the central narrative from the initial prophecy proclaiming that Macbeth will become king to the untimely demise of Lady Macbeth. This fast-moving adaptation encapsulates all of the integral events of this infamous tale of ambition, bloodshed and greed, woven together by the bewitching, dark presence of the three weird sisters.
Dracula the Travesty
After last year’s première, Davey Hopper returns from 29 October to 1 November at 7:00 in this Customs House production in association with NTC. A "frightfully funny panto"—with teeth!
Arbuthnot & Pals’ Wizarding Adventure
From 30 October to 1 November (11:00 and 2:00), Davy Hopper stars in and writes this half-term panto for children. Arbuthnot and his cousin Dennis receive letters telling them that they are wizards. They travel to a magical castle, but will they fit in in this strange new land? Featuring plenty of audience interaction, songs and dancing, it’s an October half-term treat for kids of all ages.
Carry on Screaming It's Murder
On Halloween night in Daltons 5, welcome to a riotous Halloween murder mystery dinner party with comedy, music, murder and intrigue. Guests welcome to dress in themed Halloween attire. Contains adult humour. 16+ years and tickets are £35.00 per person, including 3-course meal.