If you’re not in the mood for a panto this year, then The Fire Station in Sunderland has a real cracker of a line-up that is sure to tick at least one of your boxes.

I’m not going to tell you about everything that The Fire Station are showcasing this December – I’d need at least a couple of pages for that – but here are a few of my own personal highlights kicking off with ‘The Drums’ – Mike Joyce book tour (Saturday 6 December). I’ve heard Mike Joyce on the radio a few times over the last few months and he’s always an engaging fella. And the former Smiths drummer will be in conversation with 6 Music’s Chris Hawkins. I love a good tribute act during the party season and one of the best around is Fastlove – the Tribute to George Michael (Saturday 13 December). I’ve been lucky enough to catch this bloke before and he’s the absolute business, knocking out all your favourite Wham! hits through to George’s classic solo tunes. Another act I’ve caught before is the Transatlantic Ensemble and they’ll be hitting us up with Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours (Monday 15 & Tuesday 16 December). Made up of some extraordinary session musicians and vocalists, this bunch recreate one of the greatest albums off all time, while also giving us plenty more Fleetwood Mac classics. They’re a thrilling live experience. Transatlantic Ensemble are doing two nights as are local heroes The Futureheads (Friday 19 & Saturday 20 December). They’ll be belting out all their hits, along with songs from their new album, which, handily enough, is called ‘Christmas’. Gonna be festive! Naturally, I can never resist a screening of The Snowman each year, and this year Raymond Briggs’ beloved 1978 story will be screened and accompanied by the award-winning EverReady Band (Sunday 21 December). The combination of brass with those visuals is quite something. Talking of tribute acts, I can’t wait for the Sweet and Sour show (pictured - Tuesday 30 December). This is the ultimate homage to Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Rodrigo, which is the kind of double-bill that’ll send me to heaven and back. Closing out the year on New Year’s Eve is Smoove & Turrell (Wednesday 31 December). These two are party starters extraordinaire and you’ll not find a better way to usher in the new year.

The Fire Station, Sunderland. Full listings: thefirestation.org.uk