In the meantime, here are 12 retro reasons why the Empire Theatre is such a huge part of the city.
Just look at these famous names who have graced the stage over the years, from the Beatles to Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney.
The Empire has also welcomed hundreds of local artists and attracted audiences of all ages in its illustrious history.
So as we wait for the beautiful venue to re-open, here are a selection of reasons to continue to love a top venue which is right on our doorstep.
9. Meeting the stars in 1982
The stars of the 1982 panto at the Empire, met some of the stars of the future from Kathleen Davis Dancing School. Left to right: Kristy McDonald (9), Claire Bramley (8), Kim Dormand (8) and Kelly McDonald (11) were pictured with Melvyn Hayes,Joy Launor Heyes and Windsor Davies. Photo: SE
10. Isla was a star in 2006
Derek Tindell on stage with his Golden Eagle Isla who was appearing in Verdi's operetta Rigoletto 15 years ago. Remember this? Photo: KB
11. A time gone by
Burying a time capsule at the theatre in 2004. It happened when the Empire underwent a £4m regeneration but who can tell us what was inside the time capsule? Photo: PB
12. A pop star turned actress
Helen Shapiro appeared in "Never Too Late" by Sumner Arthur Long, at the Sunderland Empire in 1968 where she played David Kossof's daughter. The last time she visited Sunderland it was for a pop concert with Gerry and the Pacemakers in 1966 in front of an audience of screaming fans. Photo: se