Sunderland Empire roll out the red carpet

Young people from across our community had a ROARing good time at a performance of Beauty and the Beast last month thanks to the Sunderland Empire inviting a forty strong group to ‘Be Our Guest’ and enjoy a visit to the theatre.

As the possibility of a storm teased outside, inside our Graingerville Youth Services building the excitement was also rising. Transport was checked and princess themed clothing was donned (including Belle socks in the case of our Project Coordinator Teresa).

Josef, one of the young people who joined, shared his experience. He commented, “It felt really special because I have only been once before and it was a long time ago. One day I want to dance on the stage with them”.

For many, the trip offered a moment of fun and celebration after the weight of lockdowns, for others a chance for a new experience.

“I enjoyed it, it made me feel happy. It was funny and made me laugh lots. I would like to go again, it was my first time. I had never been to the theatre before”, commented Marketa. Another young attendee shared, “I have never been to a theatre show before. I hope I get to go again”.

But what about the show? Feedback included, “This show was amazing. It’s the best thing I have ever seen in my life!”, “I loved listening to the music and the orchestra they were amazing”, and, saying what we were all thinking, “They did crazy backflips in the show. I wish I could do that!”.

Children North East are grateful for the generosity of the Sunderland Empire for making this trip possible and giving us the chance to share a different experience with the young people we work with. As one of the attendees shared, “The Sunderland Empire was warming and welcoming”. We couldn’t agree more…

P.S. We’ve hidden the name of three Beauty and the Beast songs in this story, can you find them?