The Fire Station may be known as one of the region’s premier music venues, but its 2025 programme proves there’s much more to enjoy beyond the music.
The Sunderland venue is set to host a wide range of entertainment—from hilarious stand-up comedy and family-friendly theatre to screenings of world-class ballet and drama—bringing something for everyone across the coming year.
Family Highlights
Kicking things off on Thursday, 1 May, The Worst Princess, based on the bestselling children’s book, brings comedy, puppets, and pop songs to the stage—complete with a dragon.
Michael Morpurgo’s Farm Boy, the follow-up to War Horse, visits on Sunday, 11 May and Monday, 12 May, offering a moving tale for all ages.
Comedy Spotlight
Comedy fans can look forward to big names throughout the year:
Mark Steel (28 May) tackles personal adversity with sharp wit in The Leopard in My House
Alfie Moore (20 June) brings tales from the police force in A Face for Radio
Scummy Mummies (9 September) take on parenting and modern womanhood
Johnny Vegas returns as Moz in a live stage version of cult sitcom IDEAL
Jimeoin (22 October) unleashes Pandemonium
Milton Jones (19 November) brings new one-liners in his signature surreal style
Jason Byrne (20 November) offers unpredictable fun in Head in the Clouds
Count Arthur Strong (26 November) delivers a unique take on A Christmas Carol
Looking ahead to 2026:
Chris McCausland (8 March) performs his hit show Yonks!
Mark Simmons (13 March) delivers gags and audience-driven humour
Clinton Baptiste (24 May) returns with spiritual comedy in Spectral Intercourse
Screenings on the Big Screen
Ballet to Broadway: Wheeldon Works (26 May) showcases the Royal Ballet
A Streetcar Named Desire (16 June), with Gillian Anderson and Vanessa Kirby, returns via the National Theatre
Tamsin Austin, Venue Director, said:
> “We’ve become known for our incredible music programme, but we’re equally proud to be a destination for comedy, theatre, family shows, and cultural screenings. There’s truly something for everyone at The Fire Station.”
More info and tickets: www.thefirestation.org.uk
What’s On: Top Comedy, Family Shows, and Films Coming to The Fire Station in 2025
