A MUSICAL based on the popular American sitcom Happy Days starts in the North-East tonight. (Monday, April 14)

The fun-filled 50s show is playing at The Sunderland Empire and features The Fonz, the Cunninghams, Potsie, Ralph Malph, Joanie and Chachi.

Former Emmerdale actor Ben Freeman is Arthur Fonzarelli, Heidi Range of the Sugababes plays Pinky Tuscadero while Cheryl Baker is Mrs Cunningham.

Mr Freeman said: “The scenarios are ones that happened in episodes of Happy Days and it’s set in Arnold’s with the same characters. Visually and audio-wise it’s as you would expect from the era.”

The original Fonz, Henry Winkler, is also working as creative consultant to simulate the world of 1959 America.

He has been guiding the cast as they create their characters, and Mr Freeman said the TV legend has helped to inform his performance.

Mr Freeman said: “I grew up watching him and he’s still Mr Cool. He’s a very busy man but he still managed to come in and do workshops with the cast, which we were very appreciative of.

“I was slightly in awe of him on the first day of rehearsals. Even though it was our first day, he wanted us to go off script and try new things.

“It’s about more than being cool or about being a geek, it’s about the connection between the characters and the family unit. People look up to that.”

Happy Days is at Sunderland Empire from April 14 to 19. Tickets, priced £10 to £35, can be purchased by calling the Ticket Centre on 0844-871-3022, online at www.ATGtickets.com/Sunderland or at the Sunderland Empire Box Office.