THE Empire Theatre, in Consett, has a variety of shows to suit families, and fans of music, drama and comedy coming up this spring-summer season.

On Saturday, March 8, the Empire welcomes the UK and Europe’s leading musical theatre concert show The Masters of The House, with a whistle-stop tour of musical favourites performed by a cast of distinguished West End singers and musicians.

Totally Tina on Saturday, April 19, recreates the spectacle and energy of Tina Turner’s legendary live shows, combined with authentic dance routines and replica costumes.

Children and families are well catered for with the arrival of Pirate Gran, presented by Scamp Theatre and Watford Palace Theatre on Saturday, May 3. Bananas in Pyjamas will also delight young audiences on Monday, May 26, with an all-singing, all-dancing show, while on Saturday, August 2, The Sooty Show comes to Consett for the first time, direct from CITV.

X Factor and Pop Star to Opera Star winner Joe McElderry will perform at the Empire as part of his nationwide Set Your Soul Alive Tour on Thursday and Friday, May 29 and 30.

Joe’s show includes songs from rock and pop to classical, all backed by a live band.

The summer welcomes two outstanding drama productions. The world’s greatest detective brings a tale filled with romance and suspense in The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, presented by Chapterhouse Theatre Company on Tuesday, June 17.

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the First World War, Talbot House – A Home From Home will tell the story of a house behind the front line, that became a haven for thousands of allied troops.

Other season highlights include Sue Sweeney Live and Unleashed, Talon – The Best of Eagles, and The Supersonic 70s Show.

  • To book tickets for further information visit the website at leisureworks.net or call the Box Office on 01207-218-171.