Theatre star heads home to celebrate the best of British

Adam Strong, 27, from East Herrington travelled as far afield as Australia when he appeared alongside fellow Mackem Ben Forster in a blockbuster production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

The former Sunderland High School pupil is currently on a European tour of The World of Musicals, in which he plays a host of leading men including the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera and Frank’n’Furter in The Rocky Horror Show.

In a two-week break from the tour, he’s come home to Wearside to perform in Twist and Shout, which will be staged at Arts Centre Washington tomorrow.

The live show celebrates 60 years of the best of British singers and songwriters.

It’s given Adam’s family, who run Arabesque restaurant in Sunderland city centre, the chance to see him in the spotlight.

Adam, who trained at London School of Musical Theatre, said: “Because of all the travelling I do with shows my family and friends don’t get to see me in shows often. So it’s great to be performing so close to home.

“The last time I was here for work was at Newcastle Arena with Jesus Christ Superstar.”

The actor and singer, who’s also appeared in the Proms at Royal Albert Hall, added: “Twist and Shout celebrates British artists throughout the ages, from Tom Jones to Adele. It’s great fun.”

•Twist and Shout is at Arts Centre Washington tomorrow at 7.30pm. Tickets are £15 / £13 (conc)