SAFC play The Sunderland Story returning to Empire theatre to meet demand

Sunderland Empire and Sunderland AFC have announced that The Sunderland Story will return to the theatre exclusively from Thursday, May 15 to Saturday, May 31, 2025.

Following standing ovations after every performance when it made its premiere last year, The Sunderland Story proved a hit with both football and theatre fans alike, and will return with an updated version.

Told through music, comedy and emotion, the play will take fans on a trip down memory lane up to the modern day, telling the epic tale of Sunderland AFC’s past from the first trophy win to the team’s legendary managers and scorers including Watson, Stokoe, Reid, Cochrane, Campbell, and Gurney and remembers one of the biggest moments in SAFC’s history - that glorious 1973 FA Cup.

Not simply a celebration of the club’s history, The Sunderland Story follows avid Sunderland fans the Carter family, who, busy mourning the loss of the family patriarch, reminisce about tales of days gone by, family and friends, shipbuilding, mines, the newly emerging city of Sunderland and the bonds and memories that the beautiful game can create.

Nicky Allt, writer of The Sunderland Story, said: “We had an unforgettable experience with The Sunderland Story during its first run and the time is right to bring the show back for the many who have asked, and the many who did not get to see it first time round.

“You’ll see new scenes and songs that we could not get in first showing - such is the history of such a storied city and magnificent football club.

“Sunderland in one word is "PASSION". It truly is an honour to write something for the passionate people of Sunderland.”   

Marie Nixon, theatre director, said: “We are absolutely delighted the show is returning. The atmosphere in the auditorium during performances last year was electric. You could feel the emotion from the crowd and their love of the club. It really was something special and we can’t wait to experience it again.”

David Bruce, chief business officer at Sunderland AFC, said: “We are thrilled to be supporting the return of The Sunderland Story and are excited for its comeback in 2025.

“My time at MLS meant I missed it the first time around, but through family and friends, I know just how well the show captured the essence and heart of our Club. Sunderland is all about family and community, and I can’t wait to enjoy with my loved ones and fellow supporters next May”

The Sunderland Story is produced by Alterean Media and written by Nicky Allt. Tickets go on general sale from 10am on Thursday, September 19.

Tickets priced from £15* will be available at www.atgtickets.com/sunderland*A £3.95 transaction fee applies to telephone and online bookings.