Tag: whats on

Don’t miss out on the festivities of the 2018 Durham Regatta

By on 7th June 2018in What's New?, What's On?
Durham Regatta University College Durham versus Newcastle University

The legendary Durham Regatta is one of the cornerstones of the annual rowing calendar. Taking place each year on the second weekend of June on the River Wear – and the stunning backdrop of the World Heritage Site of the City of Durham – the Regatta has deservedly come to be known as ‘the Henley of the North’.

That moniker, of course, refers to the prestigious event on the River Thames that actually first took place five years after its north-eastern counterpart.

Few regional events boast such a remarkable history

While the first running of Durham Regatta was in 1834 – shortly after the university was formed – the event has its origins in the annual procession of boats organised by the Sheriff of County Durham and the Rt. Hon. William Lloyd Wharton in June 1815 to celebrate the “famous victory” at Waterloo.

The early Durham Regatta took a form similar to what the event’s many admirers are familiar with today, the racing taking place over two days from Prebends Bridge to Pelaw Wood. Today, though, the events are held over two courses – a short 700-metre course and a longer, more challenging course stretching some 1,800 metres.

There are now about 60 trophies presented at the Regatta each year, and as you might expect, many of these have their own impressive histories. However, there’s no doubt about the most prestigious accolade – the Grand Challenge Cup, which was introduced in 1854 and has been dominated in recent years by Durham University Boat Club and Newcastle University Boat Club.

So, what can you expect as a visitor in 2018?

One thing that you will certainly notice as an attendee of Durham Regatta these days is that it isn’t just for the most avid followers of the boat-racing calendar. Even in the earliest years of the event, local veterans of Waterloo would be able to help themselves to free ale, but similar hospitality is now extended to surviving relatives of local men at the battle.

More than that, though, you’re entitled to join those descendants and the several thousand more people who attend the event every year as spectators. In fact, it’s hoped that this year’s Regatta – set for the weekend of 9th and 10th June – could see numbers even higher than the 10,000 spectators that showed up in 2017.

The action itself can be enjoyed ‘up close and personal’ from Durham riverbank, with the elite men’s and women’s fours event seeing the region’s best rowers negotiate Elvet Bridge at flat-out race pace.

It’s not just about the rowers

But you’ll also have much more than the racing itself to look forward to, thanks to the free live bankside entertainment and activities that are planned over the next two days. These include music at the historic bandstand and circus performers, not to mention souvenir and craft stalls and even a display of hundreds of beautifully maintained classic cars.

With tickets costing just £5 for adults and £2 for over-65s and children aged between five and 16, this year’s Regatta promises to be something truly special. Visit www.durham-regatta.org.uk or call 0770 976 5085 for the latest information about this year’s ticketing, events and more.

What’s On

By on 15th May 2018in What's New?, What's On?

Jason Donovan and his Amazing Midlife Crisis, Gala Theatre, Durham

Jason Donovan has done a lot in his decades-long time in the spotlight – like starring in Neighbours with Kylie Minogue, topping the UK chart alongside the same Kylie, befriending David Gest on I’m a Celebrity, and playing the eponymous role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. On Friday 11th May, less than a month before his 50th birthday, he will be regaling a Durham audience with autobiographical tales as colourful as a certain dreamcoat…

Birdsong, Gala Theatre, Durham

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War, the horror of which led the world to hope “never again”… ultimately in vain. Adapted from Sebastian Faulks’ novel of the same name, this theatre production of Birdsong follows young Englishman Stephen Wraysford as the war disrupts his previously idyllic life. Performances will run from Monday 21st May to Saturday 26th May with 2:30pm matinees on Thursday and Saturday.

Georgian Fair, Beamish Museum

All year round, Beamish Museum lets you step straight into the 1820s at its Pockerley area, which includes Pockerley Old Hall and Pockerley Gardens. However, at the museum’s Georgian Fair this year, from 31st May until 3rd June, you will be able to enjoy many other Georgian treats – including wearing traditional Georgian attire and enjoying live music and clog dancing typical of the era. You will even be able to watch a fire eater!

Robots – then and now, Life Science Centre, Newcastle

Judging from Siri’s inability to even understand accents sometimes, we probably don’t need to fear technology posing any Terminator-style threat to humanity any time soon. Incidentally, a T800 Terminator from the 2009 film Terminator Salvation features among various robots from popular culture in this exhibition – which, from 26th May until 2nd December, will show centuries of robot history in a family-friendly fashion. This exhibition has been put together by the London-based Science Museum.

Tim Vine: Sunset Milk Idiot, Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle

To call Tim Vine fond of puns would be rather understating the case – but, for once, he hasn’t bothered coming up with one for the simply silly title of his current tour. You can expect more silliness than the semi-skimmed stuff if you come along to the Tyne Theatre for 8pm on Tuesday 22nd or Wednesday 23rd May. As Tim says insightfully: “Sunsets are in the sky, milk’s nice, and I’m an idiot.”

Siren, Syfy UK

The folklore of mermaids has long fascinated humanity; a particularly early depiction of a mermaid even features in the Norman Chapel of Durham Castle. However, the enduring popularity of Disney’s The Little Mermaid has given many of us the romantic perception of mermaids as princesses.

We see a darker take on the mermaid myth in the new American TV drama series Siren – which, in this country, will debut on Syfy UK come 9pm on Thursday 3rd May. The series is set in Bristol Cove, a fictional town in a coastal location and known to legend as once a home for mermaids.

A mysterious girl, Ryn (played by British actress Eline Powell) arrives in the town where she soon causes havoc, leading two marine biologists to investigate the mystery of this far-from-stereotypical sea person. Zimbabwean actress Sibongile Mlambo also stars.

Up, up, up and away: Balloons InDurham is back for seconds

By on 15th May 2018in What's New?, What's On?

If you’re looking to swap the hot air spouted by your aunts and in-laws this Spring Bank Holiday weekend for, erm, some other hot air, we’ve got the perfect news for you: the Balloons InDurham festival that debuted last year is coming back for a second helping.

Last year’s fiesta, organised by Durham BID (Business Improvement District), was as thoroughly appreciated as it was eagerly anticipated, attracting some 20,000 people to the city to watch the hot air balloon launches and the night glow.

Hopes for a fault-free event

As so often with inaugural events, though, not everything went to plan, with high winds forcing the cancellation of some of the balloon launches. Still, such experiences will have stood the organisers in good stead for this year’s event, so there’s probably never been a better time to discover the joys of balloons in Durham.

Sure enough, Adam Deathe of Durham BID said the team had learned many lessons from last year’s festival and the feedback received from it. He added that the organisers would be doing everything they could to make this year’s Balloons InDurham festival the biggest and best yet – and we don’t doubt them.

What’s planned for this year?

Durham BID sent out a ‘save the date’ tweet on 21st March with the hashtag #BalloonsInDurham, urging its social followers to make space in their diaries for 25th to 28th May.

The full programme of events was yet to be released at the time IN&AROUND went to press, but we already know certain things about what will take place over the four days.

The 2018 festival will be held across various locations within Durham, with an array of hot air balloons set to take off in both the early mornings and later in the evenings from the Houghall Campus of East Durham College.

The public will also be able to enjoy tethered balloon rides at Palace Green next to the cathedral, in addition to an assortment of other family-friendly activities.

With Balloons InDurham set to be just one of many balloon events happening across the UK this year, it promises to be quite the celebration for people of all ages. But don’t just look to the skies, as on the ground, the weekend also gives you the ideal opportunity to shop, dine and enjoy the many other fine things about this remarkable city and part of England.

What’s On: April 2018

By on 4th April 2018in What's New?, What's On?

Bishop Auckland Food Festival

Foodies are about to see the return of one of County Durham’s tastiest yearly traditions: Bishop Auckland Food Festival! A wide array of traders and producers will gather to show off their products at the market place near the town hall – and the star chefs turning up this year will include This Morning regular Phil Vickery and former The Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown. It’s all happening on 21st to 22nd April.

Phill Jupitus: Juplicity, The Witham, Barnard Castle

Former Never Mind The Buzzcocks captain Phill Jupitus visited Durham’s Gala Theatre in November with his latest stand-up show. Still, if you missed it, he’s re-staging it in Barnard Castle this month. Expect Phill to recall elements of his “chaotic” life, including his daughter Molly’s gay marriage; the trope of gay marriage is “very much in vogue at the minute”, Phill has remarked. He’ll be at The Witham on 21st April.

Queen Victoria in Paris, The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle

Thanks to the recent success of ITV period drama Victoria, there has been renewed interest in the 19th-century queen’s early life and reign. In 1855, she spent time in Paris – as a guest of the then Emperor of the French, Napoléon III – on a state visit. This historic occasion was captured in 51 watercolours currently on display in this exhibition, which will run until 24th June.

Maker Faire UK, Life Science Centre, Newcastle

In the States, Maker Faire has long been helping amateur inventors to show off their creations – and the UK version of Maker Faire has become a yearly tradition in Newcastle. At the time of writing, Maker Faire UK has not yet released its programme for the 2018 outing; however, you can expect over 300 DIYers, hackers, coders and other creative types to descend on Life Science Centre for the weekend of 28th to 29th April.

Hexham Book Festival

While County Durham has its own prestigious book festival, that won’t be returning until October. In the meantime, Hexham will be welcoming plenty of big-name writers for its own literary festival running from 26th April until 6th May. Harriet Harman, Evan Davis and Jeremy Vine are among this year’s speakers set to discuss such topical issues as Brexit, Russia and the scourge of “fake news”.

Westworld, Sky Atlantic

The sci-fi thriller series Westworld debuted in 2016 and quickly impressed both viewers and critics with its plotting, visuals and performances. However, as creators Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy know well, Westworld also incorporates Wild West elements in adapting Michel Crichton’s 1973 film.

The show is set in a future with a Westworld theme park that lets its visitors sample an immersive simulation of the Wild West. This simulation takes place in Sweetwater, a frontier town populated by “hosts”, human-resembling androids whose memories are wiped each day. However, as some of the hosts become self-aware, this doesn’t bode well for the future of the park…

The second series will start airing on 23rd April, at 2am on Sky Atlantic. That’s when the show is getting simulcast with the US; however, Sky Atlantic will also later repeat it at 9pm that day.

What’s On: March 2018

By on 21st March 2018in What's New?, What's On?

Talking Heads by Alan Bennett, Gala Theatre, Durham

Often hailed as one of Britain’s best playwrights, Alan Bennett penned Talking Heads for television back in the 1980s to critical acclaim. This month, you will be able to enjoy three of the original monologues in a live realm.

Of course, for many, ordinary life under Thatcherism could be bittersweet, tragic and darkly comic – and we can see this clearly in these stories. Performances will be repeated from 6 to 10 March.

The Hills are High, Oriental Museum, Durham

Think of South Korea and you might immediately think of its military prowess and smartphone industry. However, Durham’s Oriental Museum is currently holding an exhibition which provides a more in-depth view of life in the East Asian country.

This ongoing exhibition’s photographs, captured by curator Lauren Barnes, shed light on the political and cultural sides of South Korea, as well as many of its fascinating contrasts between tradition and technology, nature and urban development.

Lucy Worsley, Gala Theatre, Durham

Popular TV historian Lucy Worsley’s new biography of the Regency writer Jane Austen will hit bookstores in May 2018. However, people of the North East don’t have to wait that long to enjoy Dr Worsley’s storytelling about the Pride and Prejudice scribe…

The Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces will be dropping by the Gala Theatre on 19 March to tell us how Austen’s home affected her and provide an insight into her wit and passion.

Ed Byrne: Spoiler Alert, Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle

One of Ireland’s best-known comedy exports, Ed Byrne has long been proving the consistency of his comedy chops with his guest appearances on the hit BBC show Mock The Week. He also makes common appearances on the live comedy scene.

In this new show, he takes a simple idea – that the modern generation is relentlessly spoilt – and runs with it to sparkling effect. Spoiler alert: it’s a very funny show.

Easter Egg Making Workshop, Davenport’s Chocolates, Gateshead

You’ve probably already long seen an array of suspiciously egg-shaped chocolates in shops. However, even if you like to plan well ahead with buying Easter gifts, you could too easily end up with something rather soulless if you stick to shelling – ha! – out for mass-produced chocolate eggs.

At this workshop, you can mould your own chocolate egg shells and decorate them. The workshop runs from 11:30am until 1pm on 31 March and costs £35 per ticket.

Supergirl, Sky1

Now in its third season, this small-screen telling of the story of Supergirl will, on 26 March at 8pm, return to UK television sets after a mid-season break.

If you have yet to acquaint yourself with Superman’s female cousin, it’s not too late to change that. To many residents of National City, Kara Danvers may look like just an ordinary girl in her twenties. However, she is secretly Kara Zor-El, a daughter of Superman’s native planet, Krypton.

She also takes the heroic guise of Supergirl, National City’s protector. Episodes of Supergirl tend to hit UK screens pretty soon after being aired on US shores; therefore, you are unlikely to have to fret about online spoilers. However, long-term fans of the series should know what to expect – and that’s a slice of thrilling action mixed with more down-to-earth drama.

Much To Look Forward To In 2017

By on 27th January 2017in Local Biz

Leader of Durham County Council, Cllr Simon Henig, has used his first address to council of 2017 to highlight that there is much to look forward to in what promises to be an exciting year ahead.

Set against the backdrop of Brexit uncertainty and continuing austerity, Cllr Henig insists that the council continues to be “fiercely ambitious” despite having already faced budget cuts of £200 million.

He said: “We will focus on our key priorities: encouraging continued growth of our economy, redoubling our efforts to make Durham a safe, clean and green place to live and promoting a thriving visitor economy and cultural sphere..”

Cllr Henig also highlighted what can be achieved when partners and businesses from across the county work together. He said: “I was privileged to be present as the first Hitachi train, assembled on the production line at the Newton Aycliffe plant, was unveiled recently.

“Many companies from the county supply components for the trains and this historic moment served as a great example of how working together can bring huge benefits to the county, justifying the many years of hard work that brought Hitachi to County Durham, beating off competition from more than 40 other sites across the UK.”

Hitachi is just one of several success stories the county has to celebrate, including the creation of 1,200 jobs by ResQ in Seaham following support from Business Durham, the council’s business arm. Cllr Henig continued: “We are already looking forward to more good economic news in 2017 – this will include the start of the next phase of expansion at NETPark in Sedgefield and a new facility to expand GlaxoSmithKline in Barnard Castle.

“Redevelopments are now underway on this side of the riverbanks in Durham City which will enhance retail and cinema offers; all of these developments mean more job opportunities for local people and are key to our plans for a brighter future for County Durham.

“These plans include updated masterplans for Durham City and our major towns throughout the county – masterplans which will go before our Area Action Partnerships locally following consideration by Cabinet. Each is unique; each details the work undertaken so far, and what is still to come. We also look forward to ‘Operation Spruce Up’ within each of our 14 AAP’s as we continue our programme of spring cleans across County Durham so that this county is seen in its best possible light.”

In addition to the work of the council, Cllr Henig also highlighted some of the UK’s most popular and ground breaking events that the council works to support: “We are delighted that Kynren will return for a second season this summer – described as the country’s largest outdoor performance since the London Olympics – and attracting 100,000 visitors at a series of stunning night-time performances last year.

“Beamish, already the UK’s most popular living museum, will commence its expansion to encompass a reconstructed 1950’s town this year. The project to improve Seaham marina will continue as well as a new activity centre set to offer water and land sports. Our popular annual festivals – including Bishop Auckland Food Festival, Brass and the Durham Book Festival – will again entertain locals and bring in many thousands of visitors.

“Finally we also welcome back Lumiere for a fifth time in November – now the UK’s largest light festival – and this year accompanied by a major international lighting conference which we have attracted to Durham that last year took place in Seoul in South Korea.”

Early Bird Offer For Muddy Mayhem At Hardwick Park

By on 21st January 2017in Events

Early birds can catch a discount for a day of muddy good fun at County Durham’s Hardwick Park.

The North East’s ultimate obstacle course returns on Sunday 1 October, with a host of challenges awaiting runners in the beautiful surroundings of the popular 18th century, Grade II listed parkland, near Sedgefield.

Cllr Maria Plews, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for leisure, libraries and lifelong learning, said: “Muddy Mayhem is always a popular event and from cargo ​nets to ​climbing ​walls, ​tunnels, ​freezing ​open ​water and ​lots ​of ​other ​surprises this year once again promises a real test for everyone taking on our tough 5K or 10K courses.”

Anyone who signs up before midnight on Tuesday 31 January 2017 can bag a 5K place for just £35 or £40 for the 10K.

And if you’re considering taking part as a group then there’s no better time to book, as teams of 10 or more will receive an extra 10% discount – making it just £31.50 per person before the end of January.

Once the early bird offer has finished the individual price will increase to £42 for 5K and £48 for 10K.

Runners must be aged 16 and over to enter, and have a reasonable level of fitness.

For more information and to sign up visit  HYPERLINK “http://www.durham.gov.uk/muddymayhem” www.durham.gov.uk/muddymayhem.

The Blues Band Return To Gala Theatre

By on 19th January 2017in Events

Music fans can swap post-festive blues for rhythm and blues as The Blues Band returns to the Gala Theatre on Saturday 4, February 2017 at 7.30pm as part of their 38 Years and Back for More international tour.

Their soulful performances have dazzled audiences at venues throughout Europe including Glastonbury. Formed in 1979 by Paul Jones and Tom McGuiness from Manfred Mann as a band “just to play the blues”, two and a half decades and 16 albums later, the band are still touring and are acknowledged across the world as among the finest rhythm and blues bands around.

Tickets are £22 and can be booked online at www.galadurham.co.uk or by calling the Gala Theatre box office on 03000 266 600 or in person.

Landlord Accreditation Scheme Racks Up Century

By on 5th January 2017in What's New?

A scheme to support landlords and protect tenants across County Durham has reached a new landmark.

Durham County Council’s Landlord Accreditation Scheme has welcomed its 100th member, Paul McFarling, bringing the total number of properties covered by the scheme to well over 2,000 across the county.

The project sees landlords working with the council to ensure they offer quality accommodation and gives tenants peace of mind that their landlord is registered with the local authority.

Paul said: “Being accredited means that people looking to rent can see that I’m a reputable landlord who offers good quality, well managed accommodation. There are so many programmes on television these days showing rogue landlords using dodgy practices that it’s a brilliant and easy way to reassure people looking to rent.

“By working with the council I also get a range of support and advice, like being kept up to date with all of the latest changes to legislation, so it’s something I’d definitely recommend all landlords consider joining.”

Landlords who sign up to the voluntary scheme agree to work in line with a code of practice which ensures that tenants can rent with confidence. In return their properties are advertised on the Durham Key Options website – the online portal for social housing – giving them access to a waiting list of potential tenants. They also get access to a tenancy referencing service, receive updates on changes in landlord legislation and can apply to the council’s empty property loan scheme, which has so far provided nearly £1.5 million to bring long-term empty homes back into use across the county.

Cllr Eddie Tomlinson, Cabinet member for strategic housing, said: “Our Landlord Accreditation Scheme is making a real difference in County Durham and we’re delighted to welcome Paul as our 100th member.

“It provides help and support to ensure landlords can offer quality homes but it also gives tenants peace of mind, knowing they’re renting from someone who adheres to a code of practice enforced by the council.”

“With landlords also getting access to our empty homes loan scheme it’s helping to bring hundreds of long term empty properties back into use, improving housing and entire communities across the county.”

Prospective tenants can rent with confidence knowing that the council inspects the properties on offer, that their tenancy is protected by a written agreement and that they may qualify for a deposit guarantee scheme.

Landlords can find out more about the scheme and how to sign up by visiting www.durham.gov.uk/landlordaccreditation

Tenants looking for accredited landlords can find properties at: www.durhamkeyoptions.co.uk.

Tickets On Sale For Spring Shows At Gala Theatre

By on 20th December 2016in Events

A new production of Willy Russell’s classic play Educating Rita is among the highlights of another packed season at Gala Theatre.

The spring programme at the Durham City venue also includes a varied and exciting line-up of comedy, music, film screenings and much more.

Intelligent, funny, and as relevant today as it was when it was written in 1980, Educating Rita is a modern classic. Hairdresser Rita is unhappy in her job. With a thirst for knowledge, she signs up for an Open University course in English Literature, where her tutor Frank is a middle-aged alcoholic. Forming an unlikely bond, brash Rita and academic Frank begin to inspire each other.

The Gala-produced show follows September’s critically acclaimed The Fighting Bradfords, which was the venue’s first theatre production outside of its pantomime for six years.

Educating Rita runs from Tuesday, 4 April to Saturday 8 April, with a two-for-one ticket offer for Gala members on opening night.

There’s more live theatre in February, with The Empty Nester’s Club. Mum Vicky shares her story of empty bedrooms, fresher’s flu, boyfriends, long goodbyes, motorway service stations and trips to Ikea. She also tells how she fought back to be the woman she is today.

Presented by the John Godber Company and Theatre Royal Wakefield, who return to Durham after last year’s Shafted!, The Empty Nester’s Club is at Gala Theatre on Monday, 6 February and Tuesday, 7 February.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) presents The Tempest via the big screen on Friday, 3 February. The production sees Simon Russell Beale return to the RSC after 20 years to play Prospero in a ground-breaking and unforgettable show.

On a distant island a man awaits. Robbed of his position, power and wealth, his enemies have left him in isolation. But this is no ordinary man and no ordinary island. Prospero is a magician, able to bend nature to his will.

There’s a second RSC screening on Wednesday, 26 April with Julius Caesar. As the race to claim the empire spirals out of control, betrayal turns to violence in Shakespeare’s epic political tragedy.

The new season also brings more screenings from the National Theatre’s NT Live programme. Game of Thrones star Lucian Msamati takes on the role of Amadeus on Thursday, 2 February, while The Affair’s Ruth Wilson stars as Hedda Gabler on Thursday 9 March.

Spring also brings music to Gala Theatre with songs and sounds to suit all tastes.

The Pitmen Poets share songs and stories on Sunday, 5 February and there’s a chance to relive the music of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr on Saturday, 25 February with The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular.

Elkie Brooks, one of the most popular singers the UK has ever produced, performs on Sunday, 5 March. With numerous hit singles and million-selling albums, Elkie promises an evening that will be a treat for fans new and old.

Also taking to the stage are the Yamato Drummers, who will be captivating audiences with an explosive visual spectacular on Tuesday, 11 April, while guitarist and singer-songwriter Chantel McGregor, showcases a bigger and bolder rock sound on Thursday, 13 April.

There are also plenty of laughs lined up with a gaggle of top class comedians set to entertain audiences over the coming months.

Susan Calman celebrates her 10th year in comedy with a brand new show, which she brings to Gala on Sunday, 12 February.

And, later in the month, on Friday, 24 February, audiences can expect a heady mix of spontaneous stand-up and outlandish musical talent courtesy of Alex Horne and The Horne Section.

In The Sound of Mucus, showbiz legend Count Arthur Strong pays tribute to one of the best musicals he can remember, recreating the salient and poignant moments for the audience’s enjoyment. Demand for tickets has led to a second date being added, with the show now running on Wednesday, 22 February and Thursday, 23 February.

Publican, politician and philosopher Al Murray – The Pub Landlord embarks on a common sense campaign to re-Great Britain in his brand new show at Gala on Saturday, 18 March, while Lee Nelson is back on the road, visiting Durham on Sunday, 30 April.

Other comedy highlights include Love Island narrator Iain Stirling (Monday, 27 February), Mock the Week’s Andy Parsons (Sunday, 23 April) and writer, journalist and DJ Danny Baker (Wednesday, 8 March).

Fans of Gala’s regular The Comedy Store slot, meanwhile, can snap up a season ticket. Valid for three shows (Sunday 29 January, 26 February and 16 April), it means a saving of £2 per show.

The new season at Gala also includes plenty of fun for all the family with a selection of shows aimed at younger theatre-goers.

Sponge is a fabulously kitsch adventure for babies aged from six months to children under four and their grown-ups. At Gala on Friday, 24 February and Saturday, 25 February, the show is infused with audience participation, improvisation and multi-sensory experiences.

Dare you take on the dangers of Dinosaur World? Grab your compass for a journey across uncharted territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing and remarkably realistic dinosaurs. The whole family can enjoy the interactive show on Saturday, 15 April and Sunday, 16 April.

The Scarecrow’s Wedding is at Gala on Tuesday, 18 April and Wednesday, 19 April. From the creators of The Gruffalo, this truly heart-warming show is bursting at the seams with style, wit, drama and wedding bells.

Robin Byers, Durham County Council’s service manager for place and experience, said: “Gala is well established on the touring circuit for many of the country’s top comedians, musicians and performers, and each season we try to select the very best of that work for our audiences.

“We feel we have a really strong season this spring, and we know it will appeal to our regular Gala customers, as well as bringing new people to the venue.”

To view the full spring programme and book tickets, visit Gala Theatre box office, call 03000 266 600 or go online at www.galadurham.co.uk

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