The Darlington and Stockton Times | News, Sport, Business, North Yorkshire, County Durham

100 years old - and theatre's going as strong as ever

From the archive, first published Friday 19th Jan 2007.

THE only North-East theatre able to stage West End productions is celebrating its centenary.A birthday cake was made to mark The Sunderland Empire's 100th year - with guests invited from the city and the arts field to celebrate the occasion.The theatre, famed for its Edwardian architecture, was founded by Richard Thornton, of South Shields, and began as a variety theatre.It opened on July 1, 1907, when 3,000 people watched leading impersonator Vesta Tilley. The venue went on to host legendary performers such as Stan Laurel, WC Fields and Charlie Chaplin.It survived the Second World War, despite being damaged in bombing raids.It closed in 1959 but was bought by Sunderland City Council and went on to host acts such as The Beatles during the 1960s.This year, West End shows at the Empire include Guys and Dolls next month, and Starlight Express, in April. The musical of the Mel Brooks film, The Producers, will be staged in June.A theatre spokeswoman said: "It is now the North-East's flagship theatre, playing host to the most sparkling stars and prestigious entertainment."As the only theatrical venue between Manchester and Edinburgh with the facilities to host the top West End touring productions, the Sunderland Empire sees audiences travel from far and wide."For details of the theatre's programme, visit www.livenation.co.uk

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