Spectacular outdoor show set to open city's new Culture House

Dramatic aerial artists, cinematic projection mapping and more will form part of a large-scale performance to welcome Culture House to the city.

- by Katy Wheeler

Although no opening date has been announced for the £27m project that's been rising into the skyline at Keel Square over the past couple of years, it has been confirmed that it will be in spring 2026.

To mark the new addition, which is aimed at being a major visitor attraction, Southpaw Company, who have studios at Sheepfolds Stables, will host a showstopping performance inspired by Sunderland's heritage and its future.

The company, which has delivered ambitious, cutting-edge performances internationally, are creating the bespoke production HOME for the opening, which will include a cast of up to 100 community participants as well as professional dancers.

The interactive event will include live music, dance, aerial performance and cinematic projection mapping on the exterior of the building.

Robby Graham, Artistic Director at Southpaw Company, said: "The concept of the show is based around the Overview Effect, which is what astronauts experience when viewing Earth from space and the spiritual impact of there being no borders, just everyone that has ever existed on this pale blue dot.

"From that perspective, we then zoom in on Sunderland as our HOME - it will bring to life Sunderland's history of shipyards, glass, football and music before looking towards the future and the fantastic opportunities on the horizon - a nod to the ambitious regeneration that is going on in the city.