Sunderland Empire
Vesta Tilley laid the foundation stone of what is now the Sunderland Empire on 29 September 1906 and took to the stage on 1 July 1907 to officially declare the theatre open.
Masterminded by two of the contemporary heads of British theatre, Edward Moss and Oswald Stoll, the Sunderland Empire theatre has undergone many changes since it opened but remains the North East’s premier entertainment venue.
Your Visit
Plan your visit to Sunderland Empire! Explore the options below and find a way to make your night at our venue even more special.
PIZZA AL TEATRO
Take the stress out of organising your pre-show meal by booking a table in venue! Featuring a range of delicious sourdough pizzas, mezze boards and sweet treats.
AMBASSADOR LOUNGE IN ASSOCIATION WITH PENSHAW VIEW
Make your visit extra special and upgrade to a lounge experience!
Arrive early to relax before the show, enjoy table service and private washroom and avoid the rush during the interval (accessible by stairs only).
Delivered At Seat
Skip the queues before the performance and during the interval, by ordering drinks and snacks directly to your seat.
(Ordering available from day of the show.)
SEAT DEDICATION
Are you, a friend or loved one a dedicated theatregoer? You can help us to continue our work with children and communities by dedicating a seat that will go towards funding our award-winning Creative Learning team. Price: £130 (5 years)
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Sunderland Empire Creative Learning
Make your debut on the biggest stage of the North East! The Creative Learning Team is dedicated to providing opportunities throughout the year for theatre makers and theatre audiences. For more information or to reserve a place please contact [email protected]
Sunderland Empire Theatre Trust
The charity's objectives are to promote, maintain, improve and advance education particularly by the encouragement of the arts in the Sunderland area. The Trust is currently fundraising through the Seat Dedication and Dine and Donate schemes. For details of projects please click here.
Group Bookings
The more, the merrier! When booking 10 or more tickets you can enjoy discounts and perks such as no booking fees, buy now pay later and priority on sales.
To find out more, or to book for your group, call our dedicated groups team on 0207 206 1174 (local rate) or email [email protected]