The Best Shows and Events to Book Now in the North East and Yorkshire This May
Spring's event highlights include the Girls Aloud reunion and a huge Bruce Springsteen concert
Man Alive
As a couple confront their own fears of parenthood, the story of Frankenstein erupts into life. Everyday objects are transformed into glaciers, a ship at sea, a dissecting room, a house on fire… we can’t wait to see this!
Frankenstein
30TH APRIL–2ND MAY
Northern Stage, Newcastle
0191 230 5151
northernstage.co.uk
The Boss Is Back
Tickets are still on sale to see Rock legend Bruce Springsteen in Sunderland this spring. You’d be crazy to miss this chance to see one of the world’s best-selling artists live – he’s The Boss for a reason.
Bruce Springsteen
22ND MAY
Stadium of Light, Sunderland
safc.com/concerts
People Power
Sensational music and powerful performers make up this smash hit show which is based on the real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that welcomed them with open hearts.
Come From Away
30TH APRIL–11TH MAY
Leeds Grand Theatre
leedsheritagetheatres.com
For The Fashionistas
Part One of York Fashion Week returns to the city on 2nd May to once again unite talented creatives who are passionate about celebrating fashion, with a particular focus on grassroots design. In collaboration with Browns Department Store, Estée Lauder is hosting a luxury afternoon tea and makeup masterclass, Rachel Peru will host a runway show celebrating the gift of ageing, and work by young designers from across the North East and Yorkshire will be unveiled at an innovative fashion show. Don’t miss it.
York Fashion Week
2ND–6TH MAY
Across York
yorkfashionweek.com
Park Life
In the Park Festival brings the biggest live music events to some of the UK’s best parks. It’s taking over Leazes Park on May Bank Holiday weekend with two huge headliners – Tom Grennan on Friday and Rag‘n’Bone Man on Sunday.
In the Park Festival
3RD & 5TH MAY
Leazes Park, Newcastle
intheparkfestival.com
Go Global
Until May Eureka! are encouraging ‘Little Explorers’ to think about the world and the animals who share it with us. These young visitors will have the chance to talk about what they think is important, and use different life skills in engaging activities and interactive learning – playing with ice, making a honeybee hive and transforming into a recycling superhero.
Our Wonderful World
UNTIL 3RD MAY
Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, Halifax
01422 330069
play.eureka.org.uk
They’re Keane
In 2004 Keane were the biggest-selling British artist in the UK and whilst two decades has passed, their fans remain loyal and we all still love singing along to Somewhere Only We Know and Everybody’s Changing. Why not sing along to those tracks and more when you see them perform live in Leeds?
Keane
3RD MAY
First Direct Arena, Leeds
firstdirectarena.com
What’s New?
Following the release of her sixth album, The Glorification of Sadness, in February, Paloma is back on tour with her powerful vocals and totally unique style. Don’t miss this chance to see her perform live.
Paloma Faith
3RD MAY
Connexin Live, Hull
connexinlivehull.com
Go Wild
The world-renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is where visitors can see amazing images that capture fascinating animal behaviour and the diversity of the natural world. It’s the most prestigious photography event of its kind, showcasing some of the best photographers from around the world, and this year’s competition attracted an impressive 49,957 entries from all ages and experience.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year
FROM 4TH MAY
Sewerby Hall
01262 673769
sewerbyhall.co.uk
Just a Taste
New for 2024, Tastes Through Time is inviting castle guests to discover the roles ordinary women played on the Home Front during the Second World War. This is a taster for what’s to come in summer – traditional crafts, skills and costumes from the Tudor period.
Tastes Through Time
4TH–6TH MAY
Alnwick Castle
01665 511100
alnwickcastle.com
Run For It
This all-new North East marathon is coming to the closed roads of Newcastle and Gateshead on Sunday 5th May in support of Children North East. The route will finish in the iconic Gateshead International Stadium where participants will run around the track and cross the finish line. Whether you’re running or spectating, it’s sure to be a great sporting event.
Newcastle-Gateshead Marathon
5TH MAY
Gateshead International Stadium
newcastlegatesheadmarathon.com
Pawsome
Your children will love this action-packed day where they can meet Paw Patrol’s Chase and Marshall. From steam train rides to crazy golf and face painting and a giant jumping pillow, there’s plenty to tire them out.
Paw Patrol
6TH MAY
Whistlestop Valley, Huddersfield
whistlestopvalley.co.uk
On Film
Sunderland Shorts Film Festival returns this year to proudly showcase the best short films from around the world, whilst also championing homegrown talent. With something for both film lovers and filmmakers, you won’t want to miss this chance to see fantastic short films and music videos on big screens, including at The Fire Station.
Sunderland Shorts Film Festival
8TH–12TH MAY
Venues Across Sunderland
sunderlandshorts.co.uk
It’s Ladies’ Night
Celebrate Sedgefield Racecourse’s season finale with Ladies Evening – the perfect girls night out this spring. The atmosphere of this horse racing fixture is fantastic, and made even better by live entertainment after racing... who doesn’t love ABBA?
Ladies Evening ft ABBA Arrival
10TH MAY
Sedgefield Racecourse
01740 621925
sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk
Painted with Pride
Don’t miss your chance to see more than 20 works by Turner exploring the rise of steam power and industry in Britain. Turner’s The Fighting Temeraire (1839), on loan from the National Gallery, is the centrepiece of the exhibition (the two steam tugboats that pulled the Temeraire – the Samson and the London – were manufactured on Tyneside).
Turner: Art, Industry & Nostalgia
FROM 10TH MAY
Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle
0191 278 1611
laingartgallery.org.uk
Brave the Cave
It’s lonely being a caveman, especially if you believe you’re the last one on Earth, but maybe this caveman isn’t as alone as he first thought. Join writer and director of The Last Caveman, Harry Hill, for this live question and answer session after the screening of this film.
Harry Hill’s The Last Caveman
11TH MAY
Hyde Park Picture House, Leeds
hpph.co.uk
Do Good
Join The Children’s Hospital Charity patrons Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont for their second annual night of stand-up comedy to raise vital funds for this inspirational local charity. Joining them on the evening will be Alan Carr, Russell Kane and Maisie Adam.
Jon, Lucy & Friends 2nd Annual Comedy Night
15TH MAY
Oval Hall, Sheffield City Hall
sheffieldcityhall.co.uk
You Bet
Excitement is brewing at York Racecourse as flat racing makes a comeback and the highly-anticipated Dante Festival returns for May. This is racing action at its finest and promises an exhilarating day out for families and friends.
Dante Festival
15TH–17TH MAY
York Racecourse
01904 620911
yorkracecourse.co.uk
Northern and Proud
From Billy Elliot to Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, The Pitmen Poets are putting on a night of songs and stories on 16th May with lashings of Northern humour throughout. The Pitmen Poets are made up of Lindisfarne singer and songwriter Billy Mitchell, War Horse’s songman Bob Fox, Northern singing sensation Benny Graham and award-winning songwriter Jez Lowe.
The Pitmen Poets Ride Again
16TH MAY
The Alhambra Theatre, Bradford
01274 432000
bradford-theatres.co.uk
Bad Sport
In 1553 Percy and Ro are stuck on the boundaries (again) – but something’s different this year. At the Allen Valley Whitsun Game, men will die today. Northumberland writer Stewart Pringle is making his Live Theatre debut with this astonishing black comedy about extreme village sport.
The Bounds
16TH MAY–8TH JUNE
Live Theatre, Newcastle
0191 232 1232
live.org.uk
It’s a Kind of Magic
The mission at Jordan’s Retreat is to offer children and families facing serious health-related challenges an opportunity to escape the stress and emotional turmoil facing them. This May, you’re invited to join them for an unforgettable fundraising event, with star of stage and screen Debbie McGee hosted by Tony McHale. Your ticket includes a cocktail on arrival, half a bottle of wine and a three-course meal.
An Evening with – Debbie McGee
17TH MAY
Grantley Hall, Ripon
jordansretreat.org.uk
Blooming Wonderful
Make the most of fresh, seasonal flowers at Raby’s Spring Floral Workshop with expert guidance from their resident florist. The workshop will take place in Raby Castle’s Servants Hall and all materials are provided, simply come armed with a pair of gloves and some secateurs.
Spring Floral Workshop
18TH MAY
Raby, Staindrop
01833 660888
raby.co.uk
Ship Shape
Oh we do like to be beside the seaside and you’ll want to add Whitby to your must-visit list this May so you don’t miss the Whitby Fish and Ships Festival – a fun-filled family festival celebrating its maritime heritage and fishing industry. Expect seafood cookery demonstrations from celebrity and local chefs, children’s activities and still-to-be-announced shows.
Whitby Fish and Ships Festival
18TH & 19TH MAY
Whitby
whitbypark.co.uk
Remember Them
This year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day and following their smash-hit show that celebrated the King’s Coronation, wartime-inspired group The D-Day Darlings are on tour. This show will feature the best-loved songs from the era and joyful choreography.
The D-Day Darlings
21ST MAY
City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds
leedsheritagetheatres.com
Local Legend
Sheffield singer-songwriter and local legend Ed Cosens (of Reverend & The Makers fame) sold out his last Sheffield show within hours, so you’ll want to book tickets for this show fast. Visit livingnorth.com to find out more about Ed’s musical career and inspirations.
Ed Cosens
24TH MAY
The Leadmill, Sheffield
0114 272 7040
leadmill.co.uk
Guess Who’s Back
With a combination of new and old material, but a new name for his tour, Seann Walsh is back on the road trying to get audiences to put their phones down and avoid TikTok for an evening to appreciate some good stand-up.
Seann Walsh: Back from the Bed
24TH MAY
Scarborough Spa
01723 376774
scarboroughspa.co.uk
Music to Our Ears
Spring soon turns to summer, and to get you ready for festival season, Temple Newsam is hosting Live At Leeds in the park. For one day, across five stages, this is a must-book event for all music-lovers. The Kooks are headlining, while crowds can also look forward to seeing Melanie C, Sea Girls, Circa Waves, Declan McKenna, Andrew Cushin and Tom A Smith perform live.
Live At Leeds
25TH MAY
Temple Newsam, Leeds
liveatleeds.com
Puffintastic
The Amble Puffin Festival is back celebrating all things puffin with fun activities at the best time of year to see the Coquet Island puffins, as they prepare to take care of their pufflings. Visitors can expect a craft fair, guided nature walks, bird watching, local history talks, arts and crafts, watersports and live music which will take place across the town.
Amble Puffin Festival
25TH & 26TH MAY
Amble
amblepuffinfest.co.uk
Festival Season
Swaledale Festival returns this year with a fantastic selection of the finest musicians and artists from Yorkshire and around the world. Visitors can get involved in workshops, walks and craft demonstrations, whilst the packed programme also includes jokes and music from Rich Hall and The Young’uns in Concert. These events will take place in Swaledale’s chapels, churches, halls and outdoor spaces.
Swaledale Festival
25TH MAY–8TH JUNE
Swaledale
swalefest.org
Girl Power
The final few tickets remain to see Cheryl, Kimberley, Nadine and Nicola back on stage. This hugely anticipated gig will feature all of their biggest songs including Number One hits Sound Of The Underground, The Promise and I’ll Stand By You alongside classics including Love Machine, Biology and Call The Shots. Tickets are selling fast!
Girls Aloud
28TH MAY
Utilita Arena, Sheffield
utilitaarenasheffield.co.uk
31ST MAY–2ND JUNE
Utilita Arena, Newcastle
utilitaarena.co.uk
Play Detective
Starring Strictly Come Dancing winner, Ellie Leach and TV star Jason Durr, Cluedo is back with a brand-new hilarious whodunit! Rock ‘n’ roll legend Rick Black is desperate to revive his fading career, and is prepared to do anything to reclaim his fame and fortune... As the bodies pile up, the infamous colourful characters uncover each other’s mysteries and secrets whilst darting from room to room trying to escape the murderer and survive the night.
Cluedo 2: The Next Chapter
28TH MAY–1ST JUNE
Newcastle Theatre Royal
0191 232 7010
theatreroyal.co.uk
Join the Circus
Fancy your chances of becoming a circus star? Do you want to be The Greatest Showman? At Gosforth Civic Theatre this spring you can become an acrobat, trapeze artist, tight wire pro or hula hooper thanks to workshops hosted by Newcastle’s finest circus artists and professionals.
Great Circus Takeover
30TH MAY
Gosforth Civic Theatre
gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk
Child’s Play
Milkshake! Live is back with an all-new show featuring your children’s favourite characters including Dora (the Explorer) and Blue from Blue’s Clues. Join them for this all-singing, all-dancing holiday to remember.
Milkshake! Live on Holiday
31ST MAY
Lyceum, Sheffield
0114 249 6000
sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
Hands On
Immerse yourself in the art of the Spanish Golden Age with exclusive Sketching Tours of the award-winning Spanish Gallery in Bishop Auckland, led by artist Jilly Johnston. Connect with iconic masterpieces by artists such as El Greco, Murillo, Zurbarán and Velázquez and learn drawing techniques under professional mentorship in the stunning spaces of the Spanish Gallery. All skill levels welcome. Tickets are £18 per person. Book online.
Sketches and Stories: Drawing Inspiration from Spanish Artistry
31ST MAY, 28TH JUNE & 26TH JULY
Spanish Gallery, Bishop Auckland
aucklandproject.org
So Still
Still Lives displays more than 70 works by more than 50 artists across two galleries, reflecting on the inspiration artists have found in everyday objects. On display will be three of the oldest artworks in Wakefield’s art collection by renowned Dutch masters – Jacob Foppens van Es, Willem Ormea and Nicolaes van Verendael – that date back to the 17th century. It also includes recent artworks that have been donated to the collection and contemporary sculptures.
Still Lives
UNTIL 2025
The Hepworth Wakefield
01924 247360
hepworthwakefield.org
