Sunderland’s Royalty Theatre has just celebrated its 100th birthday, but a quick glance at their forthcoming programme will tell you that they’re beginning their first foray into their next century in fine style.

Sunderland’s Royalty Theatre has often been described as “a hidden jewel in the city”, but for the many people who have been through its doors down through the years – from the actors and crew to the thousands of customers – it is anything but hidden. Indeed, the theatre has become an essential part of cultural life in the north-east – a real thriving hub of activity. Current Chairperson Andrew Barella recently commented: “The Royalty has been entertaining the people of Sunderland and the north-east since 1925. We are fully run by volunteers and the dedication of these wonderful people allows us to keep putting on shows for our community, as well as giving a space for people to express themselves creatively on and off stage, or just giving them a place to socialise, which is equally as important. A group of amateur actors, directors and backstage crew work together to put on seven productions a year, including a pantomime. This is a real theatre, complete with a fully functioning proscenium arch stage, full lighting rig, state-of-the-art sound equipment, and a very comfortable 216 seat auditorium.”

As well as the aforementioned seven main house programmes staged each year, the theatre also hold regular social evenings, including quiz nights, informal play readings and open auditions – new members are always welcome, too.

The theatre’s forthcoming programme really does cater for all tastes and it begins with Turn of the Screw (28 October-1 November). Adapted from Henry James’s chilling novel, it sees a governess hired to care for two mysterious children in a remote English manor. Next up is a real crowd pleaser in the shape of We Will Rock You (5-8 November). This futuristic comedy fantasy from the pen of Ben Elton features 24 of Queen’s biggest hits and has been seen by millions of people from around the world. The Royalty Theatre’s panto is always a joyous occasion for all the family and this year will be no different when Dick Whittington (pictured) hits the road for fame, fortune and big laughs galore (5-21 December. Note: Wednesday shows are relaxed performances). After taking a breather in January, the theatre is back with a bang with one of

Noël Coward’s finest in the shape of Blithe Spirit (17-21 February). A smash-hit wherever it has played, this comedy sees a cantankerous novelist being haunted by the ghost of his late first wife. Moving into March we have Signals (17-21 March). This comedy-drama from David Farn has much to say about the world we live in and sees Parveen spearheading a telecoms revolution. Her Galahad is Ron, but can they find a way to overcome a fearsome dragon… Ray Cooney is king of farce and one of his most revered shows is Funny Money (21-25 April). This sees a mild-mannered accountant coming into a whole bundle of cash that isn’t his. But when he decides to keep the money, all manner of unexpected events occur. Finally, we have Willy Russell’s evergreen Educating Rita (23-27 June). Frank is an English tutor losing himself to drink. But when Rita, a forthright hairdresser comes into his life, both of their lives are destined to change forever.

The Royalty Theatre, 25 The Royalty, Sunderland, More information on all the above, including ticket details, from: ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/sunderland/royalty-theatre