We're celebrating 100 years of theatre in Sunderland with a special black tie event
The theatre is marking its centenary in style.
The Royalty Theatre will end their 2025/26 season with Willy Russell’s classic comedy Educating Rita – and have released details of their centenary celebrations.
The play by the writer of Shirley Valentine and Blood Brothers focuses on the attempts by working class Scouser Rita to better herself through education, and the efforts of her tutor Frank, to help her do this, despite the two being from quite different backgrounds.
Director Andrew Barella said: “It has been a dream of mine to direct this play, for over two decades, and I can honestly say the reality has surpassed every expectation.
“Directing Emma Thompson and Peter Wilson has been an absolute privilege. Emma brings an electric, raw vulnerability to Rita that is utterly captivating. Peter embodies Frank with a masterful blend of weary cynicism and profound warmth.
“Together, their chemistry is the beating heart of this show. They have made the wait completely worth it.”.
Educating Rita runs from 23rd to 27th June, with tickets available via their Ticketsource site, priced at £10 or £8.50 for concessions - https://www.ticketsource.com/royaltytheatre
But this will not be the last time the theatre’s doors will be open this season, as a special centenary celebration will be held on Saturday July 11th, in the form of a black-tie dinner at the venue.
The Royalty are opening the invitation not only to members and volunteers but also to anybody who attends simply to watch shows.
Tickets for this event are free but strictly limited due to venue capacity, so must be booked in advance, and are available from the theatre’s Ticketsource site.