Vibe Autumn 2016

magazine
Autumn 2016
If it’s on it’s in - the Sunderland magazine
UK City of Culture
Bid 2021
Sunderland Snowdogs
Page 23

Welcome to our autumn edition of
Vibe magazine, bringing you news
about the great things happening
in and around Sunderland.
Back
Contents
Page 6
Page 8
Page 10
Page 34
Sunderland’s 2021 bid is gaining support Pages 4 and 5
Sunderland’s first Restaurant Week Pages 6 and 7
An eventful place: The Stadium of Light Pages 8 and 9
Growth culture Pages 10, 11 and 12
National Glass Centre shortlisted for museum award Page 13
Welcome to Autumn at The Bridges Pages 14 and 15
Your City, Your Life, Your Gentoo Home Page 16
If It’s On, It’s In Page 17 - 33
Gentoo backs the Sunderland
UK City of Culture 2021 bid Pages 34 and 35
Hilton Garden Inn: Room with a View Page 36
SAFC on a worldwide stage Page 37
Change your future with Sunderland College Pages 38 and 39
Snowdogs, shoes and students Page 40
Bridges supports culture in Sunderland Page 41
Sunderland’s seafront now has more
to offer visitors Pages 42 and 43
Arc Adoption: Believing every right has
the right to grow up in love Page 44
Genfactor acts take to the stage Page 45
SunFM Radio made in Sunderland Page 46
£300,000 of investment at Silksworth Sports Complex Page 46
Art Made in Sunderland Page 47
2

the
Each edition of Vibe has a theme and for this With this momentum
bidBut building, and with cultural we have confidence in our talented team
edition, our theme is how we can all back the
city’s exciting bid to become UK City of
Culture 2021.
assets like National Glass Centre and the
Empire, there’s never been a better time for
Sunderland to win.
from the University of Sunderland, MAC Trust
and the city council putting our bid together.
We see the bid as a great opportunity for
Sunderland to establish itself as a national
centre for arts, heritage and culture.
Our partners have donated space in this
edition to outline their support and explain why
the UK City of Culture 2021 title would mean so
much to the city.
There is renewed energy and confidence in our
cultural sector, and a growing sense of
ambition across Wearside. From Keel Square
and the new bridge taking shape across the
Wear, to Siglion’s regeneration of the Vaux site,
and from the MAC Trust’s redevelopment of
the old Fire Station, to the exciting prospect of
the Tall Ships arriving on the Wear
2018, the city is changing.
A successful bid would put us firmly in the
cultural spotlight, attracting millions of pounds
into the city through investment in the arts,
and through what would be a huge increase in
visitor numbers. It is estimated that Hull’s
successful bid to be City of Culture 2017 will be
worth more than £60m to the city.
Four years of innovation and creativity would
culminate in a year-long programme of cultural
and artistic events the likes of which the city
and the region has never seen.
Competition for the prized title will be tough
and several places such as Coventry, Stoke,
Paisley, Hereford, Perth and Warrington have
expressed an interest.
We know something the judges will be looking
for is passion. And that is one thing that
Wearsiders have in abundance. We need to
show the judges the city is as one behind the
bid and that we really want the honour of
being UK City of Culture 2021.
So it’s not just up to the organisations,
companies and bodies who have already
expressed their support for the bid.
It’s up to us as individuals, as communities to
show our backing.
Now’s the time to back the bid … now’s the time
for Sunderland 2021.
Rob Lawson,
Editor, Vibe Magazine
We hope you enjoy reading Vibe and we’d love
to hear what you think – send your feedback to
editor@sunderlandvibe.com or keep up to
date with us @SunderlandVibe or look for us at
Sunderland Vibe on Facebook.
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 3

2
Word of Sunderland’s bid to become
UK City of Culture 2021 is spreading - and gaining support.
Sunderland’s bid to be the UK City of
Culture in 2021 could completely transform
the city. The accolade would make the city
known throughout the country and the
world as one that inspires and excites.
Hull estimates its successful title bid for 2017 is
worth at least £60m in investment, and a
successful Sunderland bid would inject a
similar amount into the city’s economy.
Sunderland 2021 Project Director Rebecca Ball
said: “A successful bid would establish
Sunderland as a national centre for arts,
heritage and culture. It would put us firmly into
the cultural spotlight and attract millions of
pounds into the local economy through
investment in the arts and an increase in
visitors and jobs.
“There is a renewed sense of confidence in the
city, a real momentum building - and a
successful 2021 bid is what this momentum is
building toward. It would be the catalyst for a
four-year period of growth, innovation and
creativity and culminate in a year of worldclass
cultural and artistic events.
“Winning cities draw significant investment to
deliver a year packed with a huge variety of
different art and culture.
“It’s not just about the cultural benefits and
impact, however. Derry/Londonderry, City of
Culture in 2013, and Hull have both seen
significant investment for infrastructure
improvements and regeneration.
“It’s brilliant to see the Vibe magazine partners
support the bid so wholeheartedly. We’d like to
think everyone in the city – and the region –
can see the clear benefits of being the winning
city and back our City of Culture bid.
“To win this title it is crucial to prove that the
local people really want it. We need everyone
in the city and wider region to be vocal
ambassadors of Sunderland and this bid - to
passionately shout about what makes you
proud to be from Sunderland.
“Give us your backing and we’ll show you just
what this city if capable of. This is Sunderland’s
time.”
“Together we can win this"
Here are a few recognisable faces, all with a passion for Sunderland, who have already backed the bid…
1. Ann Cleves
Crime writer
“Wearside used to export coal all over the
world; now it makes brilliant art and exports
that instead. We should celebrate the writers,
film-makers, actors, artists and musicians who
are based in the north east, and those who
have left to spread the sense of this culturally
vibrant place more widely. I whole-heartedly
support Sunderland’s bid to become 2021’s UK
City of Culture.”
2. Barry Hyde
Musician
“I think the City of Culture bid is a superb thing
for Sunderland. We have a glut of incredibly
talented people in the city, from musicians, to
performance artists, to drama groups, to
filmmakers, and photographers. This City of
Culture bid is going to allow those different
groups of artists to stand a much greater
chance of being productive with their work
and gaining success within their field. Now is
Sunderland’s time.”
3. David Parfitt
Film producer and actor
“Sunderland was where my cultural life started
– watching friends and family at the Royalty
Theatre, performances and films of every kind
at the Empire – I would love to be able to share
what made my cultural upbringing so rich.”
4. Lord David Puttnam
Film producer and director
“As Chancellor of the University of Sunderland
from 1997 to 2007 I’ve had the pleasure of
getting to know many young people who live
and study in the city.
Talking with students who are working to build
careers in the Creative Industries I’ve learned
to admire their drive, their commitment and
their passion.
For that reason, becoming UK City of Culture
in 2021 would have a particularly powerful
impact on Sunderland’ s young people. It
would bring new opportunities, develop new
skills and open new doors. Sunderland is a city
with a great heart and great spirit, forged
through sheer hard work and determination. It’s
earned its right to ‘a place in the sun.”
5. Jimmy Montgomery
Former footballer and hero of the SAFC
FA Cup winning squad of 1973
“I think winning the City of Culture bid could be
the greatest day in Sunderland since May 5,
1973. It would bring us the attention that our FA
Cup win did all those years ago. Not just regional
and national attention, but international
headlines for all the right reasons.
This is a great place to live, work and play - a
great place to learn and to visit, but not enough
people are aware of what we have to offer. City
of Culture status would change that. Visitors
would come here and be overwhelmed by the
reception of the city’s greatest asset - its people.
I would urge all Wearsiders not just to wish the
bid all the best, but to do something practical to
support it.”
4

6. Melanie Hill
Coronation Street actress
“I am extremely proud to add my voice and
support to the City of Culture Bid 2021. A long
time ago , (let’s not put a number on it!)
2
1
Sunderland Council gave me the opportunity to
spread my wings and learn to act at RADA by
giving me a grant. Since then my city has
worked hard to provide first class facilities and
opportunities for young people to learn and
grow creatively without having to move away
from the area. It is buzzing with such a young
positive energy.
I love my City and I urge every Mackem out
there to get behind this bid. We deserve it.”
3
Tell us why YOU think
we should be the UK
City of Culture in
2021, send your
thoughts to info@
sunderland2021.com
7. George Clarke
Award-winning architect and TV
presenter
“We are seeing some fantastic regeneration
projects in Sunderland that are really exciting for
6
the city. The Old Fire Station plans are so
exciting for Sunderland and it’s great to see the
city making the most of the assets it has –
stunning old buildings that can become cultural
hubs.
City of Culture status would escalate and elevate
the area’s transformation and bring a cultural
boost able to regenerate the whole city and
surrounding areas.
4
To keep up to date with the
bid, follow us on Twitter
(@Sunderland2021) or on
our Sunderland 2021
Facebook page. You can also
follow us on Instagram and
YouTube.
5
Wherever I live in the world, Sunderland is home
to me and it always will be. I back Sunderland’s
bid to become a City of Culture in 2021 because
it’s exactly what my city needs.”
8
6
7
8. Katie Bulmer-Cooke
Entrepreneur, consultant, speaker
“I’m Sunderland through and through and
having lived in our great city all of my life. I’ve
seen it develop and grow into a fantastic city
filled with opportunity and so many things to be
proud of.
Winning City of Culture 2021 would be a big
boost for the city’s future, bringing jobs,
investment and tourism and would really put
Sunderland on the map, both in the UK and
internationally too.
We are a city of great people, great opportunity
and great passion ... all of which truly deserve to
be recognised, celebrated and built upon.”
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 5

Sunderland set
to serve up first
Restaurant Week
Sunderland's first ever restaurant
week, which will showcase the city's
emerging food and drink scene, has
been announced for September.
Running from Saturday, September 24 until Sunday,
October 2, restaurants from across the city will be
showcasing their unique dishes, offering special two and
three course menus for £10 or £15 as part of Eat Drink
Sunderland Restaurant Week, which aims to shine a light
on Sunderland’s expanding restaurant scene.
The week will also see cafés in the spotlight, with a £5
daytime offer, encouraging visitors to explore a number of
new eateries and rediscover traditional cake shops that
have been part of the fabric of Sunderland for many years.
The nine day event, which is being led by Sunderland
Business Improvement District (BID), with support from a
number of Sunderland business partners, is a tried and
tested initiative.
Launched in New York in 2010 and since adopted as annual
events in cities across the world. Restaurant week allows
cafés, diners and restaurants to attract new customers,
with the added bonus of providing the perfect excuse to
fully explore everything a town or city has to offer.
Ken Dunbar, chief executive of Sunderland BID, said that he
hoped that people who live, work, study and play in the city
would all get behind the initiative and take the opportunity
to visit an old favourite or experiment with a new cuisine.
"Sunderland's food and drink scene has seen something of
a renaissance over the past few years, with a large number
of new restaurants opening their doors. From the authentic
Asian flavours at The Funky Indian and Papadoms to
meat lovers’ paradise at Holy Smokes and Port of Call, the
6

2 & 3
Course Menus*
£10/£15
city really does now have an eclectic mix of
places to eat.”
Ken said that Eat Drink Sunderland
Restaurant Week provides the perfect
platform for Sunderland’s cafés and
restaurants to raise the profile of their
business and “attract a greater volume of
customers during the week.”
“We hope the initiative will encourage people
to come into the city and discover the sheer
volume of choices now open to them.”
Many cafés, bars and restaurants in
Sunderland are independently owned, which
means visitors can dine safe in the
knowledge they will not find the food they
are enjoying anywhere else.
And the hope is that once people really have
got a taste for Sunderland’s exciting food
offering, they’ll be encouraged to come back
again and again.
*£5, £10 & £15
menus are
restaurant/café
specific. Selected
restaurant/ café
terms and
conditions apply.
Daytime
Café Offer*
£5
Rebecca Ball, Sunderland 2021 director, who is
heading up the city’s bid to become a City of
Culture in 2021, believes the week not only
provides a chance to try new types of food, but
also to celebrate one of the things that makes
Sunderland stand out – its independent scene.
She said: “Thinking big and learning from
other cities is something we do really well in
Sunderland, and this is a really good example
of how we can take a proven concept that
started across the pond, and make it work
for us, just as we have with fantastic cultural
programmes like the Sunderland Shorts
Film Festival.”
“Sunderland moves to its own beat. It’s
different, it’s interesting and it’s not afraid to be
itself. The food and drink scene really does
reflect the do-it-yourself attitude and
diversity we have in Sunderland and it is
fantastic that Restaurant Week will
encourage people to get stuck in, and go on
a culinary journey, without even leaving
their city.”
More information about Restaurant Week
can be found at Sunderland BID’s website
www.experienceithere.co.uk.
@SunderlandBID
@Sunderlandexperience
#EatDrinkSunderland
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 7

AN EVENT-FUL
PLACE
The Stadium of Light, named the North of England’s finest commercial
tourism venue at the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence, is one of
the largest conference, banqueting and events venues in the region,
with the flexibility to cater for everything from large-scale
presentations to university graduation ceremonies and concerts.
One of the most recognised landmarks on the
Wearside horizon, the stadium has been the
home of Sunderland AFC for almost 20 years.
Officially opened in 1997, the venue rapidly
established itself as one of the best football
stadia in Europe and in more recent years, as a
premier events venue. Its thriving events
programme sees businesses large and small,
groups and individuals take advantage of one
of the most versatile and innovative venues in
the region.
As well as extensive meeting rooms and
exhibition space, the stadium offers a range of
suites for weddings, dinners, celebration
events and more, with bespoke events
planners on hand to ensure the attention to
detail that the award-winning venue is famous
for. Sunderland AFC is also using its expertise
to deliver events outside of the confines of the
8

...take advantage
of one of the most
versatile and
innovative venues
in the region.
stadium, with events management company
1879, which sits under the Sunderland AFC
umbrella, providing the catering services for
the Sunderland Airshow and Northern Pride,
amongst a host of smaller events.
It also affords the perfect venue for Christmas
celebrations, with a range of party nights and
bespoke private parties on offer throughout
the festive period.
Added to this, in the last seven years the
stadium has become a go-to venue for major
music events, playing host to 19 concerts since
2009, with artists such as Bruce Springsteen,
Take That, One Direction, Coldplay and
Beyoncé gracing the Wearside stage. The
shows have channelled an estimated £60
million in to the regional economy, with
hundreds of thousands of music lovers
flocking to the North East, as well as elevating
Sunderland’s status across the globe.
As it approaches its two-decade anniversary,
Sunderland’s Stadium of Light has grown into a
multi-faceted venue, loved by football fans,
concert-goers and business and events
customers alike. With fantastic matchday
hospitality options, a varied events programme
PERFECT VENUE FOR YOUR
CELEBRATIONS, DINNERS
AND WEDDINGS
Special discounts available for season card
holders and loyal customers ask our sales
team for more details.
and the versatility to cater for almost
any event, whatever your individual needs,
the Stadium of Light has something
for everyone.
For more information
on what the Stadium of Light has to offer,
visit www.safc.com/hospitality and
www.safc.com/events
or call 0871 911 1200.
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 9

The University of Sunderland,
in collaboration with its partners,
is proud to be bidding for
Sunderland to be UK City of
Culture 2021.
Over more than 25 years the University of
Sunderland has re-skilled, re-energised and
re-shaped the culture and economy of a city
which needed to adapt to new industries and
rebuild its pride and confidence. And more
recently it’s been leading the city’s cultural
agenda, with visible results.
Having a strong and celebrated culture in
Sunderland is not just important for pride and
to make the city more attractive to residents
and visitors, there’s a crucial economic reason
too. Creative industries are a major employer
nationally and a major success story for the UK
economy, seeing a 5.1% growth last year as well
as being a strong exporter. Our University is
supporting that growth, developing the
environment where creative industries can
thrive and producing award-winning creative
graduates in design, media, film, graphics,
illustration, photography and fine art.
Sunderland’s bid for UK City of Culture will
lead to ever more opportunities for those who
want to build a successful creative business in
the region.
But Sunderland’s bid is all about working in
collaboration. The Sunderland Cultural
Partnership has support from Arts Council
England and connects the University,
Sunderland City Council and the Music, Arts &
Culture (MAC) Trust.
This partnership brings together many of
Sunderland’s cultural organisations such as
National Glass Centre; Cultural Spring; Northern
Gallery for Contemporary Art, the Faculty of
Arts, Design and Media; Sunderland Museum &
Winter Gardens, Arts Centre Washington,
Sunderland Empire, North East Photography
Network, Libraries Service and Canny Space.
Over the past year Sunderland Cultural
Partnership has been working with key
individuals and organisations to forge a new
vision for arts and culture in the city.
Rebecca Ball, Bid Director, Sunderland City
of Culture 2021, commented: “The University
is unique in the leadership role it’s taking in arts
and creative industries in the area.
“Not only its fantastic work in terms of research
and in developing and nurturing creative
people in the city, but also the work it’s doing in
collaboration with the city council and the MAC
Trust in really visioning what the creative future
of Sunderland could be.
“We’re already seeing the impact of the
leadership role that the University of
Sunderland is playing on the city. I think
perhaps most clearly in terms of the bid for
Sunderland to be UK City of Culture in 2021.
10

This is a big and ambitious project that will have
a huge impact on the city, and if it hadn’t been
for the University of Sunderland’s role building
confidence, building aspirations, and working so
collaboratively with partners across the city, I
don’t think we’d be in a position to put in a bid.
So that’s really tangible evidence of the positive
impact that the University’s leadership role is
having on this city.”
A poster child for place-making
urban regeneration
It was in 2010 - when the University stepped in
to take on the running of National Glass Centre,
which was in serious danger of closure – that its
direct action to shine a light on the city’s culture
really began. In taking it over, the University
brought stability and a clear vision; to make
glass making more visible and make the centre
attractive to more visitors.
The University led the £2m investment to
redesign and refurbish the centre and in June
2013 the redeveloped space opened with three,
new, free-admission riverside galleries. Sitting
below these exhibition spaces are glass studios
and hot shops for over 150 students, artists,
glass professor and an international team of
academics and technicians.
NGC now has the best-equipped facilities for
teaching glass in the UK, offering
undergraduate, Masters and PhD programmes.
It’s home to the UK’s largest art glass making
facility and at the forefront of glass research -
its academic staff and facilities are
internationally recognised.
Sir Peter Bazalgette, Chair, Arts Council
England on a visit to the city said: “I regard
the University of Sunderland as something of a
poster child for place-making urban
regeneration. I’ve been at the Arts Council for
three years, and one of the earliest visits I made
was to National Glass Centre and the
University of Sunderland effectively curating
National Glass Centre, pretty well the most
important craft centre in the country, was
incredibly eye-opening for me. It made me
realise what is possible.
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 11

Cultural Spring Achievements
TARGET- identify 105 Community
Arts Champions - passionate and
engaged members of the
community who inform
commissioning and decision making
processes by December 2016
TARGET
attract 550 participants
to be involved in the
Cultural Calendar Commissions
TARGET
Engage 1,625 participants
in the Cultural Spring workshop
programme
TARGET
engage 30 artists to
lead taster sessions
ACHIEVED
156 community champions
have already been identified
ACHIEVED
2,982 participants
to date
ACHIEVED
3,000 participants to date
and number still growing
ACHIEVED
to date there have been 110
artist-led sessions
“Now the University is doing other joint
ventures, including the Sunderland Culture
three-part coalition between the University,
Sunderland City Council and the MAC Trust, it’s
really leading the thinking on this I think.”
Springtime for grassroots
culture
Enabling people to experience and be inspired
by the arts, no matter where they live or their
social, educational or financial circumstances, is
the mission of Arts Council England (ACE) and
what lies at the heart of the University of
Sunderland led Cultural Spring.
Funded by ACE’s Creative People and Places
fund, which focuses investment in parts of the
country where people’s involvement in the arts
is significantly below the national average,
Cultural Spring is an initiative led by the
University of Sunderland and a consortium of
partners.
In 2012 the consortium created a ten-year
vision to radically change the way communities
in South Tyneside and Sunderland consume,
experience, influence and make art.
In 2013 the consortium delivered its plan to Arts
Council England and was awarded £2m from
the Creative People and Places programme to
deliver its programme between January 2014
and December 2016.
The Cultural Spring project gives residents,
communities, businesses, schools, artists, and
cultural organisations opportunities to
celebrate, take part in and create inspiring art
and culture.
Initiatives such as ‘Inventors!’ illustrate the link
between creativity and entrepreneurship,
something that the North-East needs to grow
to build its economic resilience. In ‘Inventors!’
artist and inventor Dominic Wilcox encouraged
hundreds of people in Sunderland and South
Tyneside to return to their inventing roots. A
selection of the 500 drawings were chosen by
Dominic and a panel of local makers, expert
tradespeople and manufacturers to be made in
to real life objects that featured in a pop up
exhibition.
And July’s Summer Streets festival in
Thompson Park was the best attended yet,
welcoming 8,000 visitors over the weekend to
take part in the festival and enjoy the music,
food and entertainment.
Not only is the Cultural Spring working, its
impact is snowballing - with involvement in the
arts increasing and city partners recognising
culture’s power in place-making and raising
pride.
Sunderland’s creative and cultural ambitions
have grown to the extent that the city is bidding
for UK City of Culture 2021, another initiative
being led by the University and its partners.
Join the Culture Club
Get involved by joining over 4,500 people
already engaged in the activities of the Cultural
Spring by visiting
www.theculturalspring.org.uk and signing up
to receive newsletters or join in the
conversation on Twitter, Facebook and
Instagram.
Visit
www.sunderlandculturalpartnership.co.uk
Get behind our city
www.sunderland2021.co.uk #sunderland2021
And if you’re considering joining Higher
Education #YouStillCan – visit
www.sunderland.ac.uk telephone
0191 515 3000 or email student.helpline@
sunderland.ac.uk or for more information and
support.
12

National Glass Centre shortlisted for
the biggest museum award in Britain
National Glass Centre is delighted to have
been shortlisted for the national Family
Friendly Museum Award organised by Kids in
Museums. This award gives families just like
yours the chance to say which museum,
gallery, heritage site, science centre or historic
home in Britain gives the warmest welcome.
The Award is the biggest museum award in
Britain – and the only one where families pick
the winner!
The popular attraction, which is part of the
University of Sunderland, aims to inspire
people to find out about both traditional and
contemporary glass making and its heritage
links with our city. The iconic glass building,
overlooking the River Wear, invites more than
200,000 visitors each year to explore its
exhibitions, glass blowing demonstrations,
creative experiences and family activities for
all ages.
Keith Merrin, Director, National Glass Centre
said; “It is very important to us as a visitor
attraction to be fun and welcoming for all
families. We want all of our visitors to feel at
home in the centre and feel inspired to learn
about and participate in our hands on activities
to make beautiful art. Therefore this is brilliant
recognition for everything we do here at the
centre, especially for local families. We’re very
proud to have been shortlisted for this award
from so many fantastic entries.”
The centre really does have something for
everyone offering everything from arts and
crafts workshops to unique hot glass
sandcasting experiences your whole family can
enjoy. There’s always loads’ going on at the
centre and all of the events for this season can
be found in the ‘If it’s on it’s in’ section.
National Glass Centre will be in the running
with a number of other hopeful entrants from
across Britain, the winner will be announced at
an award ceremony at the Wallace Collection in
London on Monday October 17. Fingers
crossed for this unique local attraction.
National Glass Centre is Open Daily,
10.00 – 17.00.
For more information about National Glass
Centre visit nationalglasscentre.com or call
0191 515 5555 (Option 9).
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 13

New Look
Black and yellow
floral shirt, £24.99
Miss Selfridge
Embroidered black dress £65
Topshop
Floral backless dress £75
New Look Rose gold loafers £15.99
New Look Flower choker £7.99
River Island
Suede yellow
handbag £37
The weather may be getting colder but
with a new season brings a whole new
wardrobe, so get your shopping shoes on
and head to the Bridges for the best new
season buys.
Miss Selfridge
Embroidered
nude heels £65
From rose gold metallics and floral
embroidery, to tailored tweed and romantic
ruffles, the Bridges has everything you need
to master this year’s autumn winter trends.
Whether you’re wanting to dress up for days
out, jazz up your workwear wardrobe or just
keep warm and look trendy in the process,
there’s something to suit everyone.
New Look Khaki
green ruffle front
top £24.99
And with autumnal palettes full of yellows,
golds, khakis and deep reds, there’s a
chance for those who normally play it safe
with fashion to venture out of their comfort
zone and try something new.
Next
Leopard print
lace-up shoes £50
With top high street retailers including
Debenhams, Topshop, River Island, H&M
and Topman all under one roof, you’ll be
spoilt for choice when it comes to kitting out
your new season wardrobe.
Next Faux fur
collar coat £85
Next Metallic pleated skirt £46
14

Mens New Look
Khaki shirt £24.99
Mens New Look
Bomber jacket £39.99
Mens River Island
Watch £30
Mens Next
Checked scarf £24
Mens Primark Tailored trousers £12
Mens New Look
Coat £79.99
Mens Next Brogue Chelsea boots £65
Kids Debenhams,
Baker by Ted Baker
Ankle boots £35
Kids Debenhams, Jasper
Conran Dress £30
Kids Next Dinosaur t shirt £6
thebridgesshopping.com
/Bridges.Sunderland
Kids Debenhams, Jasper
Conran Chino and braces £15
Kids Next Pinafore dress
with t shirt £20
@thebridgesshop
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 15

Your City, Your Life,
Your Gentoo Home
Gentoo Homes is a premium new homes developer
based in Sunderland. They know that it is not just
about the home you live in but the lifestyle it provides.
Each location chosen for their developments is
handpicked, providing not only a high specification
home, but a gateway to the vibrant city on your
doorstep.
Sunderland is a culturally rich and energetic city with a
hive of activity. From arts, music and entertainment to
beautiful beaches and a thriving university, there truly is
something for everyone.
Gentoo is proud of their city which is why they have
chosen to build homes here for the past 13 years and are
continuing to do so. With an array of developments
featuring 2, 3, 4 and 5 bed properties as well as
bungalows, they believe Sunderland has a great future
ahead of it.
▲ Meadow View, Houghton-le-Spring
Meadow View is a premier
development of 2, 3, & 4 bedroom
homes situated between Durham and
the vibrant city of Sunderland.
Historic landmarks such as Penshaw
Monument and Finchale Abbey are
just a short distance away.
MeadowViewHoughton.co.uk
▲ Thurcroft, Doxford Park
This development is a luxury
collection of 2, 3, 4 & 5
bedroom homes in a sought
after location. It is less than 5
miles from the heart of
Sunderland with excellent
transport links, schools and
local attractions close by.
ThurcoftSunderland.co.uk
▲ Castle Rise, Sunderland
Castle Rise is a superb
development of 2, 3 & 4
bedroom homes situated less
than 5 miles from the thriving
centre of Sunderland.
Heritage sites, museums,
festivals and events are all
easily accessible.
CastleRiseSunderland.co.uk
To find out more about these developments contact 0191 283 9365
16

Your essential guide to what’s
happening in your city, who’s
doing what, where and when.
Brought to you by
Premier League games under new SAFC manager David Moyes and
the usual top shows at the Sunderland Empire will be some of the
entertainment highlights over the next couple of months.
Early-season games against Moyes’s old side Everton and former
Magpie boss Alan Pardew’s Crystal Palace will have the Stadium of Light
rocking, while the Sunderland Empire will host three amazing shows
– Sister Act, Cats and Ghost.
Alexandra Burke will play the lead role in the all-new West End production
of Sister Act, the musical comedy (September 5 -10).
Barely a week later, the smash-hit West End musical Cats returns to the
Sunderland Empire. Adapted from TS Elliot’s Old Possum’s Book of
Practical Cats and with music from Andrew Lloyd-Webber, the show is on
Wearside from September 19 – 24.
The last of September’s hat-trick of musical hits, Ghost, features new music
and original staging and is based on the hit movie starring Demi Moore
and Patrick Swayze. It takes to the Sunderland Empire stage between
September 26 and October 1.
Another major attraction to wow Wearsiders starting in late September will
be the Sunderland Illuminations. Bigger and brighter than ever before,
this year’s illuminations will take place in Roker Park and along the seafront
from September 24 until November 5.
The event will feature exciting new lighting installations plus some old
favourites and some sparkling surprises including dinosaurs, pirates, Alice
in Wonderland, a fairy dell, a sea of stars and state of the art projections.
The Sunderland Literature and Creative Writing Festival also starts in
late September, and once again the city’s annual celebration of the written
word will have something for everyone. Local artists and authors featuring
will include Tony Wilson, Jayne Hughes and Amanda Revell-Walton.
There will be family history taster sessions as well as reading and creative
writing groups and workshops. There’ll also be taster sessions, music and
singing for young children. The festival will run at venues across the city
from September 30 to October 31 and the majority of events are free.
Whatever you’re up to over the autumn months, keep logging on to
www.vibemagazine.co.uk for the very latest on what’s going on.
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 17

Arts Centre Washington’s autumn season has a
delicious assortment of shows to appeal to all tastes
Two plays of particular note are Fish Eye, a
dark comedy about nosiness gone wild, and
Key Change, an award-winning play based on
the real life stories of women in prison.
As ever the centre has a fantastic programme
of theatre for children and families. These
include Penguin! Elephant! a hilarious new
children’s show about celebrating differences.
Live music is also in plentiful supply. Double
take as Roxy Musique pay tribute to
Washington’s own Bryan Ferry and
Blackmore’s Blood replicate the sound of the
former Deep Purple and Rainbow lead guitarist
Richie Blackmore.
The arts centre is very proud to be home to
the award winning Davy Lamp Folk Club, and
upcoming acts include Martin Simpson and
Anthony John Clarke. Also look out for local
up and coming bands such as El Cid who will
be gracing the stage for the centre’s unsigned
bands night Hothouse.
Time travelling magic duo Morgan and West
present an incredible show while stand-up
comedy will also be in plentiful supply with The
Grinning Idiot Comedy Club.
If you want to take part in the arts, the centre
has a vast array of classes and courses to get
involved in. For adults there are watercolour
classes, community choir, amateur dramatics
plus dance and exercise classes on offer. For
children there are art classes, Youth Theatre
(including a brand new youth theatre for 13
– 19 year olds) and even a Samba Drum Circle.
This year’s Christmas show will be ‘Santa’s
Little Helper’ a funny festive adventure
suitable for children aged three and above.
For more information on all Arts Centre
Washington events visit
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk or call
0191 561 3456.
FOOTLOOSE:
THE MUSICAL
Kick off your Sunday shoes and cut loose as the
explosive rock ‘n’ roll musical sensation Footloose
bursts onto the Sunderland Empire stage for
one week only from Tuesday 11 –Saturday 15
October 2016.
Based on the 1980s hit film that took the world by
storm, Footloose the musical sizzles with the same
spirit of youth, rebellion and romance.
Starring Gareth Gates as Willard and Maureen
Nolan as Vi Moore, enjoy the best in UK musical
talent, cutting-edge choreography and classic hits
including Holding Out for a Hero, Almost Paradise,
Let’s Hear It For The Boy and the unforgettable
title track, Footloose.
City boy Ren thinks his life is over when he is
forced to move to Bomont, an American rural
backwater. But things are far worse than he could
have ever imagined, as the town bans dancing. It
isn’t long before Ren can’t resist breaking the
rules, and he’s not alone!
Booking Information:
Tickets on sale now and available in
person at the Box Office on High Street
West, from the Ticket Centre on
0844 871 3022* or online at
www.ATGtickets.com/Sunderland*
*Calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your
standard network charge. Booking fees
may apply to telephone and online
bookings.
Competition T&C: The winner will receive a pair
of tickets to the performance of Footloose: The
Musical at Sunderland Empire on Tuesday 11
October 2016 (7.30pm). No monetary value will
be given and tickets are non-transferable.
18

Sunderland
Pride Group
The parade will leave
the Civic Centre at
Burdon Road at noon
and everyone is
being asked to turn
up and join in the fun
– and dress up.
“Because we’re having a
Hairspray theme it would be
fantastic if people dress as
characters from the show”
Sunderland does
it with Pride….
Big, bouffant and backcombed- this year’s Sunderland Pride is taking
its theme from one of the most fabulous musicals ever written.
The event is returning to the city on Sunday 25
September for the sixth time, with the hope that
it will beat last year’s record-breaking 6000
strong turnout.
And organisers have taken the show Hairspray
as their inspiration, which includes a
performance by Leanne Jones, who won an
Olivier Award for portraying the musical’s
leading lady, Tracy Turnblad, in the West End
production.
Leanne is just one of a whole host of singers
who will ensure that Sunderland Pride is a
star-studded event.
Tribute acts Beeyonce, Boy Geordie and
In the Mix will take to the stage along with
Kelly Wilde and former X Factor star, Kitty
Brucknell, plus the Leeds Starlets.
The event runs in and around Park Lane,
with performances running from 1pm until
7pm along with the Pride parade where
once again, the hope is for record numbers.
The parade will leave the Civic Centre at Burdon
Road at noon and everyone is being asked to
turn up and join in the fun – and dress up.
“Because we’re having a
Hairspray theme it would
be fantastic if people
dress as characters from the
show,” said Chris Ramsay, chairman
of Sunderland Pride.
The parade is expected to take about an hour
and once at Park Lane the Pride flag will be
raised and the music will start!
“This year we are also having a number of floats
as part of the parade and one dedicated
completely to Hairspray,” said Chris.
“We’ll also be playing music from it
throughout the day. We had a
fantastic Pride last year but by
the support and response
we’ve had so far, we really
think this one is going to
be the best Sunderland
has ever had.”
It will be the culmination of a
year of successes for
Sunderland Pride – which relies
totally on sponsorship and donations – with
the team moving into their own office at Bridge
House in the city.
This means that they can now run more
extensive services to meet the needs of people
across Sunderland.
For more information:
www.sunderlandpridegroup.com
@SunderlandPrideGroup
@SunderlandPride
“This year we are also
having a number of floats
as part of the parade and
one dedicated completely
to Hairspray”
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 19

Your guide to what’s on in
September 2016
Thursdays
s Late Night Shopping in Sunderland
City Centre (until 8pm) - The Bridges Car
Park will be free between 5.30pm and 9pm
on Thursdays. Council-run city centre car
parks will also be free after 3pm on
Thursdays -
www.thebridges-shopping.com
Tuesdays and Thursdays
s Music Tuition at The Bunker (4-5pm &
5-6pm) - Learn to play the guitar or drums
either in a group session or in a private
one-to-one - from £5 - 0191 567 1777
Wednesdays
s Games Club at The Bunker (4-6pm &
6-8pm) - Under 18s 4-6pm and over 18s
6-8pm. Food and drink available -
0191 567 1777
Fridays
s Music Tech at The Bunker (4-6pm) - from
£5 - 0191 567 1777
Saturdays
s Singing Club at The Bunker (10-11am) -
Ages 8-18 welcome - £5 - 0191 567 1777
Sundays - Sunday Lunch at Karbon Grill
(12-3pm) - Two-course £12.95, three-course
£15.95 - 0191 349 8500
Thursday September 1
s Clay Bowls at National Glass Centre
(10am-4pm) - Learn how to shape a ball of clay
to make a pinch pot. - £3 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com - 0191 515 5555
s Summer Sandcasting at National Glass
Centre (9.30-10.30am & 10.30-11.30am) -
Pour molten glass into moulds to produce your
own individual piece of art - Booking is essential -
www.nationalglasscentre.com - 0191 515 5555
Thursday September 1 -
Saturday September 10
s World Edda: Njörðr by Tim Brennan at
Arts Centre Washington - Reflects on what it
means to have a ‘sense of place’ in the most
profound ways -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
September 2016 September 2016
Thursday September 1 -
Saturday September 24
s Sickly Revelations* by John Lawrence at
Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art -
Lawrence's practice articulates how we
communicate ideas through the production of
cultural objects - Free -
www.ngca.co.uk - 0191 561 8487
Thursday September 1 -
Sunday November 6
s Nissan: 30 Years On - Monkwearmouth
Station Museum - Museum opening times
(Mon – Sat 11-3, Sundays Closed from 1
September) A collaboration between
photographer James Sebright and writer/audio
artist Rachel Cochrane. Celebrating 30 years of
making cars in Sunderland. - Free -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk/
monkwearmouth-station-museum
Thursday September 1 -
Sunday October 16
s 30 Years of Nissan - Sunderland Museum
& Winter Gardens - See the first Nissan
Bluebird made in Sunderland 30 years ago. -
Free - www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk/
sunderland-museum-winter-gardens
Thursday September 1 -
Sunday October 9
s The Good, The Bad and The Ugly at
National Glass Centre - Consider how
discarded or damaged objects are
reappropriated through human interventions to
create new and inventive objects which
function under a different guise -
www.nationalglasscentre.com - 0191 515 5555
s View Source - Graham Dolphin at National
Glass Centre - Data used to play music
electronically, digitally translated into a visual
format - www.nationalglasscentre.com -
0191 515 5555
Thursday September 1 -
Saturday October 22
s Graham Dolphin at Northern Gallery for
Contemporary Art - Encompassing drawing,
sculpture, sound and video the exhibition will
include works drawn from private collections
alongside new pieces created specifically for
the NGCA - Free -
www.ngca.co.uk - 0191 561 8487
Thursday September 1 -
Sunday November 6
s Snakes Alive at Sunderland Museum &
Winter Gardens - This exhibition delves into
the fascinating life of snakes, bringing to light
their beauty, mystery and amazing natural
history. Just in case you missed it, you can still
catch the Slithering Snakes Hunt before
Sunday September 4. Will you rise to the
challenge? - from £2.50 -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
0191 561 2323
Friday September 2
s Fused Glass Postcards at National Glass
Centre - Create a beautiful scene in glass using
coloured glass tiles and powder - £10 - Booking
is essential -
www.nationalglasscentre.com - 0191 515 5555
Saturday September 3
s Art and Craft Fair at Arts Centre
Washington (10am-3.30pm) - A variety of
stalls selling products created by local and
regional artists and crafts people - Free - www.
artscentrewashington.co.uk - 0191 561 3455
s The Casinos at Houghton Rugby Club
(8pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Cortney Dixon at Chaplins (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Stained Glass Leaded Technique
Beginners Level at National Glass Centre
(1-5pm) - Artist: Gill McGinley. Booking essential
- £40 - www.nationalglasscentre.com
Saturdays September 3 –
November 5
s Snake Shows 11am, 1pm & 2pm
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
(except 22 October) with additional shows
on Friday 28 October - Meet live snakes in this
45 minute interactive snake show with our
resident reptile expert. £1.50 per person.
Suitable for children aged 3+, children under 3
20

Sunderland
Brought to you by
September 2016
go free. Tickets are available from the museum
shop on the day.
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
0191 561 2323 & 0191 567 7075
Sunday September 4
s Plugged Out; (Original Acoustic Artists) at
The Ship Isis (5pm) - Free - 07901 616185
Monday September 5 -
Saturday September 10
s Sister Act at Sunderland Empire - All new
production of the Broadway and West End
smash hit musical comedy returns to the UK
starring Alexandra Burke - from £16.40 plus
£2.85 transaction fee - www.atgtickets.com
Wednesday September 7
s Imarhan (Algeria) at Independent (8pm) -
Intent on dismantling the ideas western
listeners have about popularized Tuareg music.
It finds a calm and passionate soul, providing
sumptuous slow burners, and a complexity of
compositions - £8 -
www.independentsunderland.com
0191 510 9949
Thursday September 8
s Letters to Myself at Arts Centre
Washington (7.30pm) - Theatre created from
letters written by real people - from £6 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Thursday September 8 -
Sunday September 11
s Heritage Open Days (Citywide) - This
annual four day event is part of a national
programme which gives people the chance of a
glimpse behind the scenes in buildings,
businesses or organisations to celebrate
architecture, history and culture from across the
UK. This year’s events include Maritime
Heritage Society, Houghton Rectory Park
Guided Walk and the Masonic Temple opening
its doors - www.heritageopendays.org.uk
September 2016 September 2016
Friday September 9 - Sunday
September 11
s Heritage Open Days at Washington ‘F’ Pit
(11am-3pm) - See the horizontal winding
engine in the engine house. Join in family
activities including coal themed crafts and trails
on September 10 - Free -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
0191 561 2323
Friday September 9 -
Saturday October 8
s MAC Art at Arts Centre Washington - A
selection of paintings by local ‘pop’ artist Kevan
Maguire - Free
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Saturday September 10
s SAFC vs Everton at Stadium of Light
(3pm) - www.safc.com - 0871 911 1973
s Kamino at The Vane Arms, Silksworth
(7pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Dave Ridley and Kimberley Sweeting at
Chaplins (8pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Great North Run at Karbon Grill - from £10
- 0191 349 8500
s Flameworked Glass Beads at National
Glass Centre (1-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £40 -
www.nationalglasscentre.co.uk
Saturdays September 10 -
October 15
s Introducing Ceramics at National Glass
Centre (10am-1pm) - Artist: Richie Oliver.
Booking essential - £120 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Saturday September 10 -
Tuesday January 17
s Effie Burns and Sue Woolhouse at
National Glass Centre - A showcase of work
created at National Glass Centre through the
ArtWorks Fellowship programme - Free -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Sunday September 11
s Ian Campbell at The Ship Isis (5pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s One Night of Queen at Sunderland Empire
(7.30pm) - A spectacular live concert,
recreating the look, sound, pomp and
showmanship of arguably the greatest rock
band of all time - from £23.40 plus £2.85
transaction fee - www.atgtickets.com
s Flameworked Marbles at National Glass
Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Monday September 12
s Sunderland College Adult Enrolment
Event at Washington Campus, Sunderland
College (2- 4pm) - www.sunderlandcollege.
ac.uk/change - 0191 511 6000
s Sunderland College Adult Enrolment
Event at City Campus, Sunderland College
(5pm - 7.30pm) - www.sunderlandcollege.
ac.uk/change - 0191 511 6000
Tuesday September 13
s Sunderland College Adult Enrolment
Event at Washington Campus, Sunderland
College (5- 7.30pm) -
www.sunderlandcollege.ac.uk/change
0191 511 6000
s Introducing Glass Jewellery with Beads at
National Glass Centre (6-9pm) - Booking
essential - £30 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Wednesdays September 14,
October 12, November 9
s Sunderland Knitting and Crochet Guild at
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens -
Join the members in the Textile Traditions
Gallery as they demonstrate traditional skills of
knitting and crochet - Free -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
0191 565 7215
s Sunderland College Adult Enrolment
Event at Bede Campus, Sunderland College
(5pm - 7.30pm) - www.sunderlandcollege.
ac.uk/change - 0191 511 6000
Thursday September 15
s The Carpenters Story at Sunderland
Empire (7.30pm) - Celebrate the music of one
of the most successful pop duos in music
history, Richard & Karen Carpenter - from
£25.40 plus £2.85 transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 21

Your guide to what’s on in
September 2016
s Sunderland College Adult Enrolment
Event at Bede Campus, Sunderland College
(5pm - 7.30pm) - www.sunderlandcollege.
ac.uk/change - 0191 511 6000
Saturday September 17
s FOSUMS: The History of Lighthouses,
Lifeboats and Trinity House at Sunderland
Museum & Winter Gardens (2pm) - Delivered
by Mike Ennis - £2 for non-members -
fosumsec@yahoo.co.uk
s Roxy Musique at Arts Centre Washington
(7.30pm) - A tribute to Roxy Music, the "most
influential band of all time" - £8
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
s Scratch the Surface at Houghton Rugby
Club (8pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Kirsty Foster Duo at Chaplins (8pm) - Free
07901 616185
Saturday September 17 -
Saturday November 12
s 3D Glitch at Arts Centre Washington -
Look at imperfections in the digital world, in an
age when photoshopped perfection is all too
common - Free -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Sunday September 18
s Danny Smith at The Ship Isis (5pm) - Free
07901 616185
Monday September 19 -
Saturday September 24
s CATS at Sunderland Empire - Adapted
from TS Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical
Cats, set on the night the Jellicle Cats meet for
the Jellicle Ball in a sparkling fusion of music,
dance and verse - from £15 plus £2.85
transaction fee - www.atgtickets.com
September 2016 September 2016
Tuesday September 20
s Sunderland Pianoforte Society Recital at
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
(7.15pm) - At 14 Jinah Shim was the youngest
finalist in the Glasgow International Piano
Competition - 0191 584 1943
Tuesdays 20 September -
October 25
s How to Draw in 5 weeks at National Glass
Centre (6-9pm) - Artist: Stephanie Goldsmith.
Booking essential - £100 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Wednesday September 21
s Listen to Me Marlon at Arts Centre
Washington (1.30pm) - New documentary
telling the life story of screen legend Marlon
Brando - £3
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Thursday September 22
s Putting the Band back Together at Arts
Centre Washington (7.30pm) - Part gig, part
storytelling theatre, this riotous new show
explores why we stop playing - and what it
might take to get us started again - from £6 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Friday September 23
s Scratch the Surface at The Cross Keys,
Washington (8pm) - Free - 07901 616185
Saturday September 24 -
Saturday November 5
s Sunderland Illuminations at Roker Park -
This year's event will see all of Roker Park being
used for a whole host of new and exciting
features, including pirates, dinosaurs and fairies.
Visitors to the event this year can look forward
to activity right along the seafront, including the
return of the big wheel, as well as activities on
Ocean Park and Cliffe Park. - £1 -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
Saturday September 24
s SAFC vs Crystal Palace at Stadium of
Light (3pm) - www.safc.com - 0871 911 1973
s Small Wonder at The Vane Arms,
Sliksworth (7pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Dave Red at Chaplins (7pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Ignite! Flameworking at National Glass
Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Lock N’ Load at The New Prospect,
Herrington Burn (8pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Introducing Fused Glass at National Glass
Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Sue Woolhouse.
Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Sunday September 25
s Active Sunderland BIG Walk at Herrington
Country Park (10am) - This year’s event really
will have something for everyone! Suitable for all
ages and abilities. Registration from 8.45am -
Entry online only -
www.activesunderland.org.uk
s Gin and Juice at The Ship Isis (8pm) - Free
07901 616185
s Flameworked Jewellery at National Glass
Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Monday September 26
s The Lovell Lectures: Wellington's Secret
Victory at Living History North East (1-3pm)
- Local historian Jack Curtis brings a unique
flavour to this illustrated talk - from £2.50 -
0191 565 4835
Monday September 26 -
Friday September 30
s Ghost - The Musical at Sunderland Empire -
Taking its inspiration from the classic movie,
this innovative reimagining will feature an
expanded book, new music and original staging -
from £14.90 plus £2.85 transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
Thursday September 29
s Amazing Wearside Awards 2016 at The
Point - A celebratory evening for businesses
which operate in the Wearside area -
www.amazingwearside.com - 077812 096701
22

Sunderland puts its best paw forward
September 19 - November 29
Every dog will be having his day in Sunderland
this autumn – as the region’s largest ever
public art trail heads for the city.
The Great North Snowdogs will see uniquely
decorated 1.5m sculptures, inspired by the
Raymond Briggs story The Snowman and The
Snowdog, scattered everywhere from favourite
tourist spots to lesser known corners of the
region.
Each one of the dogs will be transformed by an
artist (along with a few celebrity contributions)
and Sunderland will be welcoming their very
own pack of Snowdogs, along with 95 little
dogs painted by the region’s school children.
The project has been organised by – and will
raise funds for - St Oswald’s Children’s Hospice
and creative partners, Wild In Art.
And Sunderland businesses have got firmly
behind this amazing event.
Sunderland BID, the Bridges, SAFC, The
National Glass Centre, Gentoo, Primary Times,
Healthy High Streets, Stagecoach and
children’s heart charity CHUF are all
sponsoring dogs which will appear in key
locations.
They include Park Lane, the Bridges, the
National Glass Centre, SAFC, Market Square,
Keel Square, Sunniside Gardens, Blandford
Street and at the Minster along with some
further afield.
The exact locations are still be confirmed as
VIBE went to print but one thing is certain -
you’d be barking mad to miss the opportunity
to visit these amazing pieces of art.
Turn the page and you can take a look at the
trail – and also keep your eyes peeled for the
dedicated, interactive app – or should that be
“yapp” – where you can unlock information at
every dog visited and also get a range of
special offers and treats.
Make no bones about it, this is a huge event for
Sunderland!
For further information, visit
www.greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk.

Great North
Snowdogs Trail
Can you spot the sixty Snowdogs, scampering across Tyne and Wear? Locations
include well know landmarks and lesser known places right across the region
and you can track them all down by using the app by searching Great North
Snowdogs in Apple or Android app store. Each dog has a unique code to enter
in the app as you find them, and you will unlock special offers as you go. An up
to date trail map showing where to find all of the dogs can be downloaded from
www.greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk.
Please note: This map is representative only and is not the final trail map
Keir Hardie Way
MONKWEARMOUTH
Sunderland Aquatic
& Wellness Centre
Stadium
of Light
53
Newcastle Road
Newsagency
A1290
A1018
A1018
STADIUM
OF LIGHT
A1018
A183
54
A183
Indoor/Outdoor Key:
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
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18
19
20
Indoor
Guide Dog
AT: Collingwood Monument,
Tynemouth
ARTIST: Mike Clay
SPONSOR: Nexus
Skipper
AT: Tynemouth Castle
ARTIST: Joanne Wishart
SPONSOR: DFDS
Snow Angel of the North
AT: Tynemouth Metro Station
ARTIST: Mik Richardson
SPONSOR: Barclays
Rover Code
AT: Tynemouth Park
ARTIST: Ellie Tarratt
SPONSOR:
Dogfish
AT: Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth
ARTIST: Pam Royal/Daniel Stone
SPONSOR: Blue Reef Aquarium
Rhino’s Rescue
AT: Spanish City, Whitley Bay
ARTIST: Leighton Denny
SPONSOR: Celeb Dog
Chilly Dog
AT: Royal Quays, North Shields
ARTIST: Sally Adams
SPONSOR: Royal Quays
Shaggy Dog Stories
AT: Wallsend Park
ARTIST: Chris Riddell
SPONSOR:
Pink is the New Black
AT: Quorum Business Park
Longbenton
ARTIST: Lee Stafford
SPONSOR: Celeb dog
Woof 3000
AT: Quorum Business Park,
Longbenton
ARTIST: Sophie Green
SPONSOR: Quorum
Snowy McCountsalot
AT: Gosforth Central Park
ARTIST: Tim Minnis
SPONSOR: Tait Walker
Es Tu Costa
AT: St Oswald’s Shop, Hazelwood
Avenue, Jesmond
ARTIST: Tristan Lathey
SPONSOR:
Wild North East
AT: Jesmond Dene, Pets corner
ARTIST: Jina Gelder
SPONSOR: St Oswald’s
Children’s Hospice
Decisions Decisions
Decisions
AT: Jesmond Dene, Pets corner
ARTIST: Julia Roxbury
SPONSOR:
Traditional Snowdog
AT: Seven Stories, National Centre
for Children’s Books
ARTIST: Penguin
SPONSOR: Penguin
Gingerbread Dog
AT: The Biscuit Factory
ARTIST: Sarah-Jane Szikora
SPONSOR: The Biscuit Factory
Tails of the North East
AT: Newcastle Civic Centre
ARTIST: David Maguire
SPONSOR: Lookers
Psychedelic Snowdog
AT: Northumberland Street North
ARTIST: Rebecca Reed
SPONSOR: Virgin Money
Hound’s Tooth
AT: Northumberland Street South
ARTIST: Damien Jeffery
SPONSOR: Fenwick
Roodle
AT: intu Eldon Garden
ARTIST: Isy Langhorne
SPONSOR:
Outdoor
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
Hound Dog
AT: intu Eldon Square
ARTIST: Lee O-Brien
SPONSOR: intu Eldon Square
Patchwork Snowdog
AT: Eldon Garden Shopping Centre
ARTIST: Jill Barklem
SPONSOR:
Rosa Canina
AT: Grey’s Monument
ARTIST: Sue Guthrie
SPONSOR: The Botanist
Essence of the North
AT: Grey’s Monument
ARTIST: Geoff Chappell
SPONSOR: Northumbrian Water
Arthur
AT: Theatre Royal
ARTIST: Jeff Rowland
SPONSOR: Sanderson Young
The Dog Father
AT: Grainger Market
ARTIST: Jenny Leonard
SPONSOR: Ringtons
Wor Geordie
AT: The Cathedral Church
of St Nicholas
ARTIST: Newcastle College
SPONSOR: The NBS
Snowline
AT: Central Station
ARTIST: Jim Edwards
SPONSOR: Northern Rail
Rocket Dog
AT: Central Station
ARTIST: Amanda Rabey
SPONSOR: Bond Dickinson
Fear of Emptiness/Seedbed
AT: Stephenson Quarter
ARTIST: Louise Bradley
SPONSOR: Clouston Group
Hadrian’s Hound
AT: Newcastle Quayside Trinity Gardens
ARTIST: Catherine J Bell
SPONSOR: Deloitte
Flying Angels
AT: Newcastle Quayside
ARTIST: Corinne Lewis-Ward
SPONSOR: The North Group
Snowberry
AT: East Quayside
ARTIST: Simon Tozer
SPONSOR: KPMG
Ziggy
AT: Sage Gateshead
Performance Square
ARTIST: Marcus Brown
SPONSOR: Gateshead
Disco Dog
AT: Sage Gateshead
ARTIST: Natalie Guy
SPONSOR: Sage Gateshead
TBC
AT: Gateshead Old Town Hall
ARTIST: Temper
SPONSOR: xxxx
Squares
AT: Trinity Square Gateshead
ARTIST: Deven Bhurke
SPONSOR: Trinity Square
MOJO
AT: Gateshead Metro Station
ARTIST: Sumit Sarkar
SPONSOR: Performance Horizon
Graffiti Dog
AT: Gateshead Central Library
ARTIST: Frank Styles
SPONSOR: Gateshead Council
Snowdog Springtime
AT: Saltwell Park
ARTIST: Joanna Lumley/
Sarah-Jane Richards
SPONSOR: Go North East
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48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
Mutt Me on the Corner
AT: Saltwell Park
ARTIST: Lindisfarne/Edgar Ameti
SPONSOR: Motorpoint
Dog of the Tyne
AT: Angel of the North
ARTIST: Jane Headford
SPONSOR: SCS
Spocky Dog
AT: Washington Galleries
ARTIST: Hilary Sanderson
SPONSOR: Washington Galleries
The Snowbrador
AT: Washington Galleries
ARTIST: Ruby Cooper
SPONSOR:
Luna
AT: Sunderland Minster
ARTIST: Geoff Chappell
SPONSOR: CHUF
Snowdog Down
the Rabbit Hole
AT: Park Lane
ARTIST: Heather Penten
SPONSOR: Sunderland BID
How to
Hide a Lion
AT: Sunderland Winter Gardens
ARTIST: Helen Stephens
SPONSOR: Stagecoach
Great North Polar Pooch
AT: Sunniside Gardens
ARTIST: Sandra Jaekel-Bothyart
SPONSOR: Gentoo
Aero-Dog
AT: Market Square
ARTIST: Deven Bhurke
SPONSOR: Sunderland HHI
Day of the Dog
AT: Bridges Shopping Centre
ARTIST: Sophie Green
SPONSOR: Bridges Shopping Centre
Winter Lily
AT: St Oswald’s Shop,
Blandford Street
ARTIST: Sarah Jane Richards
SPONSOR:
Tails of the Sea
AT: Keel Square
ARTIST: Joanne Wilshart
SPONSOR: Primary Times
Wonderhound
AT: Stadium of Light
ARTIST: Illona Clark
SPONSOR: Sunderland AFC
Forever Frozen
AT: National Glass Centre
ARTIST: Charlotte Mitchell
SPONSOR: National Glass Centre
Sparky
AT: Seaburn Seafront
ARTIST: David Sith
SPONSOR:
Barbour
AT: Groyne
ARTIST: Emma Woolston
SPONSOR: Barbour
Rosy Posy
AT: Marine Park South
ARTIST: Sarah-Jane Richards
SPONSOR: Barbour
Gizmo
AT: Marine Park South
ARTIST: Anonymous
SPONSOR:
Pawdington
AT: The Customs House
ARTIST: Mandii Pope
SPONSOR: NEXUS
A1231
UNIVERSITY
Riverside Park
Sunderland
Empire Theatre
University of
Sunderland,
City Campus
60
A183
A1231
A183
ST PETERS
52
River Wear
A183
WEARMOUTH BRIDGE
Sunderland
49
45
Bridges
Sunderland
Shopping Centre 51
50
Patchwork
Northumberland
AT: Kielder Observatory
ARTIST: Daniel J. Weatheritt
SPONSOR: Northumbrian Water
Little
Snowdogs
Trail
PARK LANE
As well as spotting our large dogs, keep
a lookout for their little brothers and
sisters, displayed indoors in litters, in
venues across the region.
Here is a taster of some of the locations.
Download the map at
www.greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk
for the full list!
Sage Gateshead
Intu Eldon Square
The Bridges
Seven Stories
The Biscuit Factory
National Glass Centre
Trinity Square (Tesco)
Fenwick
Newcastle Library
Sunderland Winter Gardens
Blue Reef Aquarium
Galleries Shopping Centre
Sunderland Minster
Gateshead Leisure Centre
Gateshead Library
Eldon Garden
Washington Arts Centre
Jesmond Dene Visitors Centre
HOLMESIDE
FAWCETT STREET
Sunderland Museum
& Winter Gardens
46
BURDON STREET
HIGH ST W
ST THOMAS ST
ATHENEUM ST
University of
Sunderland
Sir Tom Cowie
Campus at St Peters
A1018
A1018
11
W SUNNISIDE
47
TOWARD STREET
To find out
which
little Snowdogs
are at each
location, visit:
Sunniside
Gardens
48
National Glass Centre
University of
Sunderland
Halls of
Residence
A1018
TATHAM STREET
Download
our Great
North
Snowdogs
app!
www.greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk
06
A1018
A1018

A183
A
RED WALK
GREAT NORTH ROAD
WEST JESMOND
B1600
VENUE
BURN ROAD
e
Moor
ark
yal Victoria
Infirmary
s’ Park
S’
io
B1318
STRAWBERRY PLACE
BOROUGH
O2 Academy
Newcastle
CENTRAL
NEWCASTLE
WATERLOO STREET
S’ BLVD
GA LLOWGATE
A184
ASKEW ROAD WEST
A186
GREAT NORTH ROAD
Exhibition
The ParkGym
A167M
A1
HIGH STREET
Angel of
the North
The Brandling Arms
Sainsbury’s
Great North
Museum: Hancock SHOPPING CENTRE
REET
Mooracres
Playing Fields
ST NICHOLAS
BENTON ROAD
A167
AVE
T he Letch
11
MANORS
MONUMENT
MANORS
Quorum
Business Park
10
42
09
JESMOND
NEWCASTLE
UPON TYNE
NEWCASTLE
Northumbria
UNIVERSITY
University
Newcastle
City Campus
HAYMARKET
intu
Eldon Square
Centre for Life
B1426
ARDENS
NEWGATE STREET
PERCY STREET
A189
B1318
BLACKETT STREET
CUTHBERT STREET
BIGG MARKET
FORTH STREET
NORTHUMBERLAND ST PILGRIM ST
CLOSE
River Tyne
BENSHAM ROAD
Sunderland
Marriott
SEABURN TERRACE
WEST JESMOND
Seaburn
02
Park
A167M
Newcastle
City Hall
A186
B1307
ST NICHOLAS’ ST
ASKEW ROAD
WHITEHALL ROAD
B1309
Gosforth
Central Park
The Angel View Inn
DURHAM ROAD
The Letch
Sage
Gateshead
Longbenton
Community College
CENTRAL
COATSWORTH ROAD
SALTWELL
A167M
A167M
A167M
TYNE BRIDGE
A184
OSBORNE ROAD
A186
OSBORNE ROAD
A183
B1600
JESMOND
A193
QUAYSIDE
GATESHEAD
GATESHEAD
BRINKBURN AVENUE
All Saint’s Cemetery
A1058
B1600
HIGH STREET
39
SALTWELL VIEW
55
SANDYFORD R OAD
A184
B1600
A1
STODDART ST REET
A19 3
B129
RO
Western
Community
Primary School
Gateshead
Millennium
Bridge
A186
BALTIC Centre for
Contemporary Art
HAWKS ROAD
DURHAM ROAD
GIBSON STREET
A167
A167
T
A182
A182
B1600
Pet’s
Corner
JESMOND DENE
A187
COBLE DENE
Tyne
LOW HEWORTH
RED WALK
ROAD
Kielder
HEATON Observatory
LANE
WEST ST
60
A193
Wallsend Burn
River Tyne
PARK LANE
44
Jesmond
Dene
Royal Quays
Outlet Centre
Gateshead East
Cemetery
RED WALK
Richardson
Dees Park
STATION ROAD
The Forum
Shopping Centre
HIGH STREET W
North Shields
County Court
07
PELAW
Sainsbury’s
GOSFORTH TERRACE
Galleries
Shopping Centre
Kielder Water
and Forest Park
WALLSEND
03
08
KINGS ROAD SOUTH
Starbowl
ASDA
01
PARK ROAD
Segedunum
ROTARY WAY
COBLE DENE
QUEEN VICTORIA STREET
Wallsend
Hall
Asda Wallsend
Supermarket
BUDDLE STREET
Swan
Hunter
NE
Waves
Leisure
Centre
WHITLEY BAY
MARINE AVENUE
MONKSEATON
Bill Quay
Community
Farm
01
DUKE STREET
43
Wet ‘n’ Wild
Water Park
Premier Inn
North Shields
Ferry Terminal
A
SHIELDS ROA D
A167 A167
WESTGATE ROAD
A186
PARK VIEW
NORHAM RD
HILLHEADS RD
A184
Leazes
Park
BARRACK ROAD
RAILWAY STREET
Metro Radio
Arena
13
Town Moor
Park
Whitley
Park
Royal Victoria
Infirmary
St James’ Park
ST JAMES’
LEAZES
Discovery
Museum
ST JAMES’ BLVD
River Tyne
ROSE STREET
28
MARLBOROUGH
B1318
STRAWBERRY PLACE
O2 Academy
Newcastle
Park View
Shopping
Centre
Marden
Park
GA LLOWGATE
A186
PROMENADE
06
WHITLEY RD
WHITLEY
BAY
MARDEN RD S
Exhibition
Park
A167M
NEWCASTLE
UNIVERSITY
BROADWAY
Mooracres
Playing Fields
MONUMENT
29 CENTRAL 27
WATERLOO STREET
NEWCASTLE
30
A184
ASKEW ROAD WEST
BURNSIDE RD
JOHN ST
A167M
HAYMARKET Newcastle
City Hall
22 18
intu
Eldon Square
19
05
20 21
NEWGATE STREET
B1318
PERCY STREET
Centre for Life
A189
CUTHBERT STREET
Great North
Museum: Hancock
BLACKETT STREET
BIGG MARKET
FORTH STREET
NORTHUMBERLAND ST PILGRIM ST
23
26 25
CLOSE
12
River Tyne
NEWCASTLE
UPON TYNE
BENSHAM ROAD
A186
B1307
ST NICHOLAS’ ST
24
ASKEW ROAD
CULLERCOATS
MARDEN AVE
17
B1309
A167M
CENTRAL
COATSWORTH ROAD
BEVERLEY TERRACE
JESMOND
A167M
A167M
Northumbria
University
Newcastle
City Campus
10
36
OSBORNE ROAD
MANORS
MANORS
31
TYNE BRIDGE
A184
A186
OSBORNE ROAD
JESMOND
A193
QUAYSIDE
GATESHEAD
All Saint’s Cemetery
GATESHEAD
A1058
SANDYFORD ROAD
B1600
32
HIGH STREET
A184
B1600
STODDART ST REET
A193
A186
Gateshead
Millennium
Bridge
HAWKS ROAD
DURHAM ROAD
GIBSON STREET
A167
A167
33
B1600
Pet’s
Corner
JESMOND DENE
35
BALTIC Centre for
Contemporary Art
34
Sage
Gateshead 04
07
37
38
16
14
08
ROAD
13
Jesmond
Dene
HEATON
A193
15
River Tyne
PARK LANE
09
Gateshead East
Cemetery
RED WALK
SALTWELL ROAD
Saltwell
Crematorium
B1344
WEST PARK ROAD
40 41
Saltwell Park
A167
D
HEWORTH
NE
Parish Church
of Saint Mary
North
Marine Park
A184
S
B1344
56
HEWORTH
The Dunes
Entertainment
Centre
PELAW
KIR
B1426
B1426
MARDEN
CULLERCOATS
LINKS RD
WHITEHALL ROAD
BROADWAY
SALTWELL
12
Blue Reef
Aquarium
BEACH RD
BRINKBURN AVENUE
03
Tynemouth
Park
SALTWELL VIEW
59
B1344
OMMERCIAL ROAD
B1344
Northumbria
STATION ROA
SOUTH
SHIELDS
ASDA
CROSSGATE
SOUTH SHIELDS
McDonald’s
Central
Library
A183
LAWE ROAD SEAVIEW TERRACE
57
58
BEACH ROAD
SEA WAY
Lakeshore
Railroad
WESTOE
CROWN VILLAGE
A183
SALTWELL ROAD
Tynemouth
Golf Course
Saltwell
Crematorium
WEST PARK ROAD
A193
04
Saltwell Park
KING EDWARD RD
05
Northumberland
Park
TYNEMOUTH
PERCY PARK
A167
TYNEMOUTH
TYNEMOUTH RD
FRONT ST
01
02
Tynemouth
Castle

Look out for your Sunderland Snowdog Sponsors
Sunderland BID
Bridges Shopping Centre
National Glass Centre
SAFC
Sunderland Healthy
High Street
Gentoo
Stagecoach
Primary Times
The Galleries
CHUF
You can make a mad dash around the region
and visit all the Snowdogs over a few days or
take your time and make it a treat for all the
family over the entire two months.
However you choose to see it – just make sure
you don’t miss out!
Here’s the
timetable of events:-
19 September – 29 November
Snowdogs trail launches and is open
to the public to view.
3 -4 December
Snowdogs Farewell Event (details to
be announced).
6 December
Snowdogs auction, Sage Gateshead.
– Snowdogs are auctioned to raise
funds for St Oswald’s Hospice.
A range of special events will
take place throughout the region
during the trail.
There are dogs that will make you smile, some
may even bring a tear to your eye and some
with a distinctly North East flavour. There’s a few
celebrity contributions too!
Each one had a personality all of its own and
we’re guessing that you’ll want to visit every one.
Download the app for information about the
dogs, the artists and the trails and the more
Snowdogs you visit, the more special offers you’ll
be able to unlock.
Download
our Great
North
Snowdogs
app!
greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk
A Wild in Art event delivered in partnership with
St Oswald’s, your local children’s hospice.
(all information correct at the time of going to print)

Sunderland
Brought to you by
September 2016
October 2016 October 2016
s Chernobyl @ 30 at Arts Centre
Washington (7.30pm) - 30 years on from the
world’s worst nuclear accident, explore the
impact, both then and now, on those affected
by radiation exposure - £8.50/ £6 (conc) -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Friday September 30
s Fire Lady Luck at The Cross Keys,
Washington (8pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Sunderland on Film 2 at Quayside
Exchange (2.30 & 6.30pm) - A new selection
of archive films is to be screened, revealing a
fascinating history of Sunderland - £6
s John Fothergill + Kate Lucas + Dean
Moore + MC George Zach at Arts Centre
Washington (7.30pm) - The Grinning Idiot
Comedy Club presents some of the best stand
ups on the circuit - £10 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Friday September 30 -
Monday October 31
s Sunderland Literature and Creative
Writing Festival - This annual celebration of
the written word has something for everyone.
The programme features many local artists and
authors, including Jayne Hughes, Fiona
Veitch-Smith, Amanda Revell-Walton and Tony
Wilson. There are family history taster sessions,
music and singing for young children, reading
and creative writing groups and workshops,
poetry, book related crafts and more.
The majority of the events are free and they
are in venues across the city
www.sunderland.gov.uk/libraries
Friday September 30 -
Saturday November 26
s Alison Lloyd at Northern Gallery for
Contemporary Art - Solo exhibition by
Nottingham based artist Alison Lloyd -
www.ngca.co.uk
October 2016
Saturday October 1
s SAFC vs West Bromwich Albion at
Stadium of Light (3pm) - www.safc.com -
0871 911 1973
s Danny Smith at Chaplins (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Chris Sherbun & Denny Bartley at Arts
Centre Washington (7.30pm) - Presented by
The Davy Lamp Folk Club - from £6 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
s Penguin! Elephant! at Arts Centre
Washington (11am & 2pm) - A magical new
children’s show about celebrating differences
for anyone who’s ever waddled like a Penguin or
stomped like an Elephant - from £6.50 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
s Art and Craft Fair at Arts Centre
Washington (10am-3.30pm) -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
s Fun Palace at Arts Centre Washington
(11am-2pm) - A space where arts and sciences,
fun and learning meet - Free -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
s Sunderland Stages: Fans at Pop Recs,
Sunderland (7.30pm) - Based on people’s love
affair with music, Fans fuses together fan
confessions (and some not so true stories) with
scripted drama – from £6 -
www.sunderlandstages.co.uk – 0191 561 3456
Saturday October 1 -
Sunday October 2
s Sculptural Flameworking at National
Glass Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £130 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Saturdays October 1 -
October 29
s Glass Tableware Club at National Glass
Centre (1-4.30pm) - Artist: Midori Shinmura.
Booking essential - £125 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Sunday October 2
s Plugged Out (Original Acoustics) at The
Ship Isis (5pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Saying Goodbye Service at Sunderland
Minster (3pm) - Baby loss support service for
anyone who has lost their child either in
pregnancy, at birth or 80 years ago - Free -
www.sayinggoodbye.org
s Create a Creature at National Glass
Centre (10.15am - 4pm) - Use airdrying clay to
sculpt an animal… it can be realistic or
completely imaginary - £3.50 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Tuesday October 4
s Student Raid at the Bridges - A special one
night only shopping experience for young
people attending the university or any of the
city’s colleges -
www.the bridges-shopping.com
Tuesday October 4 -
Saturday October 8
s Sunny Afternoon at Sunderland Empire -
Tale of how one of Britain’s greatest bands,
The Kinks, rose to stardom - from £15 plus
£2.85 transaction fee
www.atgtickets.com
Wednesday October 5
s Sunderland Stages: Thrive at CitySpace
Studio, Sunderland (7.30pm) - Created
especially for young people, Thrive takes on the
challenging subject of trauma and beautifully
portrays sensitive themes – from £5 -
www.sunderlandstages.co.uk –
0191 561 3456
Thursday October 6
s Under the Bed at Arts Centre Washington
(7.30pm) - A compelling new play about
childhood trauma and what happens when
nightmares are indistinguishable from reality -
from £6 - www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Saturday October 8
s FOSUMS: Sunderland in the Roaring
Twenties and Troubled Thirties at
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
(2pm) - This talk will be delivered by Trever
Thorne - £2 for non-members -
fosumsec@yahoo.co.uk
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 27

Your guide to what’s on in
October 2016
s The Kansas City Shuffle at The Vane
Arms, Silksworth (7pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Ron Brown at Chaplins (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
Sunday October 9
s Dave Red at The Ship Isis (5pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Wedding Wonder Show at Stadium of
Light (12-3pm) - In partnership with Belle
Bridal, will feature more than 100 of the region’s
finest wedding suppliers, offering everything
from photographers to favours - from £1 -
www.weddingwondershow.co.uk
Tuesday October 11
s Sunderland Stages: Bookish at
Independent, Sunderland (7.30pm) – A
selection of five mini shows with songs and
stories each inspired by a different book chosen
by the audience via social media – from £6 -
www.sunderlandstages.co.uk –
0191 561 3456
Tuesday October 11 - Saturday
October 15
s Footloose at Sunderland Empire - Based
on the 1980s hit film that took the world by
storm - from £14.90 plus £2.85 transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
Saturday October 15
s Jess Wilson at Chaplins (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Morgan & West - Parlour Tricks at Arts
Centre Washington (7.30pm) - Time travelling
magic duo Morgan and West present an
incredible show chock full of jaw-dropping,
brain-bursting, gasp-eliciting feats of magic -
from £6 - www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
s Introducing Screen Printing on Glass at
National Glass Centre - (10am-4pm) - Artist:
Jade Tapson. Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
October 2016 October 2016
Sunday October 16
s Stephen Mordue at The Ship Isis (8pm) -
Free - 07901 616185
s Paint a Plate at National Glass Centre
(10.15am-4pm) - Decorate a ceramic plate in
your own wildlife themed design - £3.50 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Glass Tableware Taster Session at
National Glass Centre (1-5pm) - Artist: Midori
Shinmura. Booking essential - £35 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Sunderland Theatre Organ Preservation
Society Present Cameron Lloyd at Ryhope
Community Centre, Sunderland (2.30pm) -
www.ryhopecomptonorgan.blogspot.co.uk
Monday October 17
s Gavin James at Independent (7pm) -
Recently became the first artist ever to sell out
Dublin’s Olympia prior to releasing a studio
album - £9 -
www.independentsunderland.com -
0191 510 9949
Tuesday October 18
s Molly's Marvellous Moustache at Arts
Centre Washington (10.30am & 1.30pm) - A
new theatrical adaptation of the original
storybook, written by Andrea Heaton and
illustrated by Talya Baldwin - from £6.50 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
s Sunderland Pianoforte Society Recital at
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
(7.15pm) - Mishka Rushdie Momen was a
prizewinner at the Dublin International Piano
Competition - from £6 - 0191 584 1943
Wednesday October 19
s Film Screening: Florence Foster Jenkins
at Arts Centre Washington (1.30pm) - The
story of a New York heiress who dreamed of
becoming an opera singer - £3 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
s Sunderland Stage: Faust (7.30pm) -
Audience members will be told where to meet
before being escorted to the outdoor
performance area. A unique fusion of worldclass
breaking combined with Lindy Hop,
Charleston and swinging big band music of the
roaring 20’s that taps into the spirit of
gangsters, bootleggers, gamblers, flappers and
hep cats of the time – from £10 -
www.sunderlandstages.co.uk – 0191 561 3456
Thursday October 20 -
Sunday October 30
s Diwali - Curry Festival Celebrations at
Karbon Grill - Enjoy a sumptuous variety of
curry dishes accompanied by traditional Indian
snacks and treats - £13.95 -
karbongrill@hgisunderland.com -
0191 349 8500
Thursday October 20 -
Saturday October 22
s Birmingham Royal Ballet: The Tempest at
Sunderland Empire - David Bintley’s new ballet
conjures Prospero’s magical isle from
Shakespeare’s late masterpiece into a
spellbinding new work of ballet theatre - from
£11.90 plus £2.85 transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
Friday October 21
s Still Drifting at Rainton Meadows Arena
(6.30pm) - Enjoy a night of live music with
Drifters classics form Still Drifting- and a
Sumptuous 3 course Dinner - £50 -
www.raintonmeadowsarena.co.uk -
0191 584 8630
Saturday October 22
s Birmingham Royal Ballet: The Tempest -
Class on Stage at Sunderland Empire
(10.30am) - Watch Birmingham Royal Ballet’s
talented dancers in their final preparations for a
performance of world class dancing - £10 -
www.atgtickets.com
s Scratch the Surface at The Vane Arms,
Silksworth (7pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Ian Campbell at Chaplins (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Lewis Schaffer is Free until Famous at
Arts centre Washington (7.30pm) - The
contentious New York comic returns! - Free -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
s Stained Glass Leaded Technique
Beginners Level at National Glass Centre
(1-5pm) - Artist: Gill McGinley. Booking essential
- £40 - www.nationalglasscentre.com
28

Sunderland
Brought to you by
October 2016
Saturday October 22 -
Sunday October 30
s Spooky Creatures Trail at Sunderland
Museum & Winter Gardens - Find all of the
spooky creatures hiding around the Museum &
Winter Gardens to claim a prize - £2.50 -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
s Transport Toys Trail at Monkwearmouth
Station Museum - Find all the transport toys
hiding in the museum galleries and wagon shed
- £2.50 - www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
Sunday October 23
s Taylor Payne at The Ship Isis (5pm) - Free -
07901 616185
Sunday October 23 -
Sunday November 20
s Journey to Justice: Sunderland’s Hidden
Histories at Sunderland Museum & Winter
Gardens - A dynamic exhibition about the US
civil rights movement and struggles for social
justice here in Sunderland and across the UK -
www.journeytojustice.org.uk
Monday October 24
s Ghoulish Glass Painting at National Glass
Centre (10.15am-4pm) - Create a creepy
picture on a glass tile, or paint a spooky
suncatcher - £4 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Tuesday October 25
s Meccano Models at Monkwearmouth
Station Museum (11am-2.30pm) - See the
amazing models from the North East Meccano
Society - www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
s Trick or Treat plate at National Glass
Centre (10.15am-4pm) - Paint a spooky design
onto a ceramic plate then use it as a treat plate
for Halloween sweets - £3.50 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Sunderland Stages: Sponge at City
Library and Arts Centre (11am&2pm) -
Spongy tactile show for kids – from £8 -
www.sunderlandstages.co.uk -
0191 561 3456
October 2016 October 2016
Wednesday October 26
s Maximum RnB with The Manfreds at
Sunderland Empire (7.30pm) - Join 60s
luminaries The Manfreds, PP Arnold and Zoot
Money for a fabulous evening of Rhythm and
Blues nostalgia, and some of the greatest hits
ever written - from £30.65 plus £2.85
transaction fee - www.atgtickets.com
s Really Wild Day at Sunderland Museum &
Winter Gardens (11am-12.30pm & 1.30-3pm) -
A really wild day to explore local wildlife with
guided walks in Mowbray Park, fun trails, nature
themed arts and crafts and experts to answer
your questions -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
s Engineer your own Clay Monster at
National Glass Centre (10.15am-4pm) - Use
your imagination to create your own
Frankenstein’s monster or a creepy creature
using air-drying clay - £3 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Wednesday October 26
- Friday October 28
s Genfactor 2016 Final at Rainton
Meadows Arena - Devised and delivered
by Gentoo staff and volunteers, the
competition was launched in 2009. To
date, more than 800 young people from
across the city have taken part -
www.gentoogroup.com
Thursday October 27
s A Vision of Elvis at Sunderland Empire
(7.30pm) - An excuse to party, reminisce or
simply be entertained by some of the best
music ever - from £25.40 plus £2.85 transaction
fee - www.atgtickets.com
s The Sorceror’s Apprentice at Arts Centre
Washington (11am & 2pm) - This delightful
new show comes to life with an irresistible blend
of music, puppetry and storytelling - from £6.50 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
s Animal Masks at National Glass Centre
(10.15am-4pm) - Get crafty with a range of
materials to make an animal-inspired mask - £3 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Halloween Messy Art at Monkwearmouth
Station Museum (12.30-2.30pm) - Get
creative with paint and make a Halloween
themed frieze -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
Friday October 28
s Motown's Greatest Hits: How Sweet It Is
at Sunderland Empire (7.30pm) - This
stunning 100% live show combines first class
music together with the slickest choreography,
and an amazing band - from £22.90 plus £2.85
transaction fee - www.atgtickets.com
s Museums at Night: Slime and Snakes
Halloween Party at Sunderland Museum &
Winter Gardens (6pm - 8.30pm) - Make your
own gooey slime, try a spooky creatures trail
around the Winter Gardens at night, make a
scary animal mask and visit the Snakes Alive!
exhibition - £5 -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
s Fiendish Fusing at National Glass Centre -
Design and make your own spooky decoration
for Halloween using colourful glass mosaics and
glass grains. Booking Essential - £10 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Saturday October 29
s Got to be Michael Jackson at Rainton
Meadows Arena (7.30pm) - It celebrates the
career and impact of the world's most famous
entertainer - from £7.50 -
www.raintonmeadowsarena.co.uk -
0191 584 8630
s Scratch the Surface at The Britannia,
Houghton-le-Spring (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Ella Kent: Aida at Sunderland Empire
(7.30pm) - A tragic story of war, jealousy and
revenge at whose heart is the doomed love of
the beautiful Ethiopian slave girl, Aida, and the
Egyptian hero, Radames - from £14.90 plus
£2.85 transaction fee - www.atgtickets.com
s Jack Bowden at Chaplins (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s SAFC vs Arsenal at Stadium of Light
(3pm) - www.safc.com -
0871 911 1973
s SAFC Ladies v Notts County Ladies FC at
Hetton Centre, Hetton-le-Hole (6pm) -
www.sunderland.fawsl.com/matches
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 29

Your guide to what’s on in
October 2016
s Spooky Sleuths at National Glass Centre
(4-6.30pm) - Something untoward has
happened at National Glass Centre… it’s your
job to find out who dunnit! Booking essential -
£14 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Jam Jar Lanterns at National Glass
Centre (10.15am-4pm) - Decorate a jam jar
using a range of craft materials and glass
painting pens - £3 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Ghoulish Glass Painting at National Glass
Centre (10.15am-4pm) - Create a creepy picture
on a glass tile, or paint a spooky suncatcher - £3 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Flameworked Glass Beads at National
Glass Centre (1-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £40 -
www.nationalglasscentre.co.uk
Saturday October 29 -
Sunday October 30
s Stained Glass Weekend - Leaded
Technique Intermediate Level at National
Glass Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Gill
McGinley. Booking essential - £110 -
www.nationalglassscentre.com
Sunday October 30
s Alan Jones at The Ship Isis (5pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Mum’s the Word 2 at Sunderland Empire
(7.30pm) - One of the Nation’s favourites;
Laugh at the comedic horrors of bringing up
children in this new and updated version of
the hit show - from £22.90 plus £2.85
transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
s Flameworked Jewellery at National Glass
Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Monday October 31
s The Lovell Lectures: Norman Kirtlan at
Living History North East - Norman Kirtlan
will be entertaining with his grizzly tales - from
£2.50 - 0191 565 4835
November 2016 November 2016
Tuesday November 1 -
Saturday November 5
s The Glenn Miller Story at Sunderland
Empire - Brought to the stage in a brand new
musical spectacular, is the life, fame and
vanishing of America’s most famous big band
leader - from £17.90 plus £2.85 transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
Tuesdays November 1 -
Tuesday September 29
s Drawing Club at National Glass Centre -
Artist: Stephanie Goldsmith. Booking
essential - £100 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Tribal & Modern Glass Beadwork
Jewellery at National Glass Centre (6-9pm)
- Artist: Sophie Beresford. Booking essential -
£125 - www.nationalglasscentre.com
Friday November 4
s Sunderland Stages: Swan Canaries at The
Royalty Theatre (7.30pm) - Based on real
events around the biggest explosion this
country has ever known – from £6 -
www.sunderlandstages.co.uk -
0191 561 3456
Friday November 4 -
Saturday February 11
s Amanda Beech at Northern Gallery for
Contemporary Art - Major new video work and
prints by British born, LA based artist Amanda
Beech - Free - www.ncga.co.uk
Friday November 4 -
Saturday December 3
s The Materialistics - A Grand Tour at Arts
Centre Washington - Featuring some iconic
works of art, knitted, crocheted and sewn - Free -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
Saturday November 5
s Yellowstone at The Vane Arms, Silksworth
(7pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Ashley Humble at Chaplins (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Martin Smith at Arts Centre Washington
(7.30pm) - from £6 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
s Art and Craft Fair at Arts Centre
Washington (10am-3.30pm) - Free -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
s Christmas Stocking Workshop at Katie’s
Garden (1pm) - Join in store where you’ll be
shown how to create a pattern piece, cut your
fabric & stitch your design together - £25 -
07519 824422
Saturdays November 5 -
December 15
s Intermediate Ceramics at National Glass
Centre (10am-1pm) - Artist: Richie Oliver.
Booking essential - £120 -
www.nationalglasscentre.co.uk
Sunday November 6
s Roy Chubby Brown at Sunderland Empire
(7.30pm) - Chubby doesn’t hold back from
sharing his outlandish views on news, women
and gender, sailing so close to the mark, even
the most seasoned of fans will be left gobsmacked
- from £24.40 plus £2.85 transaction
fee - www.atgtickets.com
s SAFC Ladies v Birmingham City Ladies at
Hetton Centre, Hetton-le-Hole (6pm) -
www.sunderland.fawsl.com/matches
s Artificial Wreath Workshop at Katie’s
Garden (1pm) - Create your own gorgeous
artificial door wreath to adorn to your door this
Christmas - £10 deposit, plus £28 on day -
07519 824422
Monday November 7 -
Saturday November 12
s The Rocky Horror Show at Sunderland
Empire - The world's favourite rock 'n' roll
musical is back by popular demand to thrill you
once again with its frothy fun and naughty
moments - from £17.90 plus £2.85 transaction
fee - www.atgtickets.com
30

Sunderland
Brought to you by
November 2016
Wednesdays November 9 -
December 7
s Glass Tableware Club at National Glass
Centre (5.45-9.15pm) - Artist: Midori Shinmura.
Booking essential - £125 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Thursday November 10
s Am I Dead Yet? at Arts Centre
Washington (7.30pm) - A musical comedy
cabaret… about death! - from £6 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
Saturday November 12
s FOSUMS: Women in the Great War at
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
(2pm) - Delivered by Peter Welsh - £2 for
non-members - fosumsec@yahoo.co.uk
s Stephen Mordue at Chaplins (7pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Fire Lady Luck at The Brittania,
Houghton-le-Spring (8pm) - 07901 616185
s Flameworked Marbles at National Glass
Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Stained Glass Christmas Decorations at
National Glass Centre (10am-4pm) - Copper
Foil Technique Any Level. Artist: Gill McGinley.
Booking essential - £110 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Saturdays November 12 -
December 3
s Glass Tableware Club at National Glass
Centre (1-4.30pm) - Artist: Midori Shinmura.
Booking essential - £125 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Sunday November 13
s Kirsty Forster Duo at The Ship Isis (8pm) -
Free - 07901 616185
s Wildlife Fusing at National Glass Centre -
Use brightly coloured glass grains and tiles to
create a solid glass artwork. Booking essential -
£10 - www.nationalglasscentre.com
s Ignite! Flameworking at National Glass
Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist: Zoe Garner.
Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
November 2016 November 2016
Mondays November 14 -
December 12
s Artistic Fused Glass at National Glass
Centre (6-9pm) Artist: Sue Woolhouse.
Booking essential - £125 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Wednesday November 16
s Circus of Horrors at Sunderland Empire
(7.30pm) - Returning to celebrate its 21st
anniversary as it takes to the road with its latest
incarnation “The Never-ending Nightmare” -
from £18.50 plus £2.85 transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
s Film Screening: Room at Arts Centre
Washington (1.30pm) - The extraordinary
story of a young boy raised within the confines
of a small shed - £3 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
Thursday November 17
s Fish Eye at Arts Centre Washington
(7.30pm) - A dark comedy about nosiness
gone wild - from £6 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
Friday November 18
s Sunderland Stages: What I Learned from
Johnny Bevan at The Theatre, Bede Campus
Sunderland (7.30pm) - A funny and poignant
poetic monologue about the British relationship
between class and politics told through one
extraordinary friendship – from £5 -
www.sunderlandstages.co.uk -
0191 561 3456
s Winter Wonderland Gourmet Evening at
Stadium of Light - An evening dedicated to
the gastronomic splendour of the winter season -
£54.50 - conf&banq@safc.com -
0871 911 1555
Saturday November 19
s SAFC vs Hull City at Stadium of Light
(3pm) - www.safc.com - 0871 911 1973
s Lock N’ Load at The Vane Arms,
Silksworth (7pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Big Sister at The Britannia, Houghton-le-
Spring (8pm) - Free - 07901 616185
s Steve Daggett at Chaplins (8pm) - Free -
07901 616185
s Christmas Craft and Food Fayre at
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
(10am - 4pm) - Browse around a Christmas
Craft and Food fayre to find unusual, unique,
and beautiful hand-made gifts, cakes and
bakes, sweet and savoury and everything in
between - www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
s Blackmore's Blood at Arts Centre
Washington (7.30pm) - A tribute to the magic
of Ritchie Blackmore from Deep Purple to
Rainbow - £8 -
www.artscentrewashinton.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
s Scratch the Surface at The Saltgrass,
Deptford (8pm) - Free - 07901 616185
Sunday November 20
s Ashley Humble at The Ship Isis (5pm) -
Free - 07901 616185
s Sing-a-Long-a Grease at Sunderland
Empire (7.30pm) - Brought to you by the
producers of Sing-a-Long-a Frozen - from
£16.90 plus £2.85 transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
s Santa Sack Workshop at Katie’s Garden
(10am) - Join in store and learn how to make
your very own personalised hessian Santa sack -
£15 - 07519 824422
s Sunderland Diwali Festival at Sunderland
Museum & Winter Gardens (1pm - 5pm) -
Rough Diamond Entertainment and The Funky
Indian restaurant present a community Diwali
celebration with colourful arts and crafts,
garden trails, food, music and performance -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
Sundays November 20 & 27
s Artificial Wreath Workshop at Katie's
Garden (10am) - Join in store this winter where
you’ll be showed the tricks of the trade to help
create your own gorgeous artificial door wreath -
£10 deposit, plus £28 on day - 07519 824422
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 31

Your guide to what’s on in Sunderland
November 2016
Tuesday November 22
s Sunderland Pianoforte Society Recital at
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
(7.15pm) - Ashley Fripp was chosen as a Rising
Star by the European Concert Hall Organisation -
from £6 - 0191 584 1943
s 20 Years of Keep on Dancing at
Sunderland Empire (7pm) - from £16.15 plus
£2.85 transaction fee - www.atgtickets.com
Wednesday November 23
s Sean Lock: Keep it Light at Sunderland
Empire (8pm) - Every three years the
comedian writes and tours a new stand-up
show. He's only gone and done it again! What's
he like? Come and see what he's blithering on
about this time - from £27.15 plus £2.85
transaction fee - www.atgtickets.com
Thursday November 24
s Psychic Sally - Call Me Psychic at
Sunderland Empire (7.30pm) - The nations
favourite psychic is back and better than ever
with her brand new and most jaw-dropping
show yet - from £28.40 plus £2.85 transaction
fee - www.atgtickets.com
November 2016 November 2016
s Martin Harley at Independent (7pm)
- Renowned for his prowess as a slide guitarist,
Martin is almost unique in the UK in his playing
lap slide - £13.50 -
www.independentsunderland.com -
0191 510 9949
s Thanksgiving Celebrations at Karbon Grill
- Sunderland’s very own Pan-American
restaurant will be celebrating Thanksgiving with
the mother of all feasts - £30 -
karbongrill@hgisunderland.com -
0191 349 8500
Friday November 25
s Grip at The Cross Keys, Washington (8pm)
Free - 07901 616185
s Hothouse: El Cid + The Face + Ski
Monarchs at Arts Centre Washington (8pm) -
A showcase of new rock and indie bands in the
area - £4 - www.artscentrewashington.co.uk -
0191 561 3455
Saturday November 26
s Winter Wonderland at Sunderland Empire
(7pm) - from £15.15 plus £2.85 transaction fee -
www.atgtickets.com
s Key Change at Arts Centre Washington
(7.30pm) - Award winning play based on the
real life stories of women in prison - from £6 -
www.artscentrewashington.co.uk
0191 561 3455
s Flameworked Christmas Decorations at
National Glass Centre (10am-4pm) - Artist:
Zoe Garner. Booking essential - £80 -
www.nationalglasscentre.com
Saturday November 26 -
Sunday January 1
s Christmas Tree Trail at Sunderland
Museum & Winter Gardens - Follow the
trail of Christmas trees and discover some
magical facts about Christmas and
Christmas traditions - £2.50 -
www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk
Sunday November 27
s Ewan & Deyna at The Ship Isis (8pm) -
Free - 07901 616185
SUNDERLAND STAGES: IT’S NOT WHAT YOU’D EXPECT
Sunderland Stages’ new season of theatre,
dance and stand up poetry is setting the city
alight in unexpected and hidden venues.
Seriously, they are actually setting one location
on fire with a production of ‘Faust’ by
Southpaw Dance Company. In this roaring
1920s inspired show, Faust battles with the
devil for his soul, but the venue remains top
secret and will not be revealed to the audience
until shortly before the performance.
Sunderland Stages, which last year introduced
beat-boxers, ballet, punks, puppets and miners,
to unusual venues such as National Glass
Centre, Independent music venue, Holy Trinity
32
Church and Roker seafront, provides
audiences with an unconventional and often
interactive experience of theatre.
Putting the Band Back Together at Arts
Centre Washington, is inviting lapsed
musicians to reclaim their instruments and join
the house band alongside The Futurehead’s
own Ross Millard, in a riotous and tender story
telling of people’s relationship with music.
At the University of Sunderland’s City Studio
Thrive, addresses young people’s strength in
the face of adversity, whilst completely
surrounding the audience with a visually
stunning set.
Local venues Independent and Pop Recs also
play host to performances for book and music
lovers, and families can enjoy a magical frozen
piece of puppetry, music and circus at
Sunderland Museum and Winter Garden in
Silver Moon.
For information about the full programme, and
to book tickets online from £5.00, please visit
www.sunderlandstages.co.uk.

Mr Lakshmanan,
Consultant Spinal Surgeon
Back pain is a common problem that affects a
large proportion of the population and most of
us will experience it at one stage. However, for
a number of people it impedes on their daily
life and makes simple tasks a struggle.
Clive Stirling, Sales Director at Timpson’s, recently came to
Spire Washington Hospital for a facet joint injection after
suffering from lower back pain for 30 years.
I’ve been suffering from pain in my back since I was a
teenager and recently it had been causing me severe
discomfort. I struggled to pick things off the floor without
supporting myself and I felt restricted with what I could do.
My family convinced me that I needed to do something and
pointed me towards Spire Washington Hospital.
After ringing the hospital they arranged a consultation with
Consultant Spinal Surgeon, Mr Lakshmanan within 2 days.
He referred me for an MRI scan which I had on the same
day at the hospital and at a follow-up consultation he went
through my results where I was diagnosed with arthritis of
the hips that caused the pain in my back. After discussing
various options he booked me in for a facet joint injection.
The hospital and service I received was excellent. The staff
and Mr Lakshmanan were fantastic, always keen to help and
answered any questions I had. The procedure only took 30
minutes and I was back home within a couple of hours.
I have a greater freedom of movement now which makes
those simple daily things much easier to perform. I’m very
grateful to Mr Lakshmanan and Spire Washington Hospital
for all they’ve done.
At Spire Washington Hospital, we offer a rapid access spinal
clinic allowing you to see a range of spinal surgeons for an
initial consultation, generally within 48hours*. Coming to
the hospital is an easy process; you can receive fast effective
treatment by self-funding, with finance options available, or
by using your private medical insurance.
Call us on 0191 502 9582 to talk to one of our Customer Service Advisers or for more
information visit www.spirewashington.com
*depending on the patients and consultants availability
Follow us – Spire Washington
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 33

Gentoo proud to
back Sunderland
City of Culture Bid 2021
Gentoo is proud of their people, homes and
the communities in which they work. They
share the same passion as their customers do
for the city of Sunderland.
They are a housing association that owns and
manages more than 28,000 homes. They are
one of the largest employers in Sunderland
and have more than 70,000 customers who
call Sunderland home.
As well as bringing economic benefits,
Gentoo believe that the City of Culture Bid will
create new exciting opportunities and
experiences for the people of Sunderland.
They also believe it will bring people together
to celebrate the vibrant city we live in.
Gentoo engage with their customers through
community initiatives, events and activities.
Customers also support Gentoo to make
positive difference by volunteering and
getting really involved in activities. Gentoo
work with people from all generations and life
stages, young people, couples, growing
families and the older population – encouraging
them to get involved in the exciting cultural
and artistic events that are going on across
the city.
The Genfactor is one example of a community
initiative ran by Gentoo that aims to inspire
young people. It is a talent competition that
aims to boost confidence and nurture
34

home-grown talent as well as open up new
opportunities for young people to get
involved in music, arts and culture.
Gentoo collaborate with key partners to
influence things that affect their colleagues,
customers and society. Recently, they have
pledged their support for the Great North
Snowdogs – Tyne and Wear’s biggest ever
mass-participation event. The interactive trail
will feature 60 large Snowdog sculptures.
They have sponsored a large Snowdog which
will be part of a trail around Sunderland’s city
centre. They have also donated 10 smaller
encouraging them to support the bid as we
believe it will deliver huge benefits, such as
more employment, new experiences and an
increasing sense of confidence. It’s not only
our customers who will benefit it is the whole
city.
“We have some of the most creative and
talented people in Sunderland and by
believing in our people we can inspire future
generations and leave a long-term legacy for
our city. By collaborating and working
together to support the bid we can break
down barriers to make a positive difference
dogs to local communities and these small
dogs have been designed by local schools
and young people. This is a great way for
Gentoo to work with the local community and
get young people involved in using creativity
as a learning tool.
John Craggs, Chief Executive Officer, Gentoo
Group said: “We love our city. We love the
history and culture, and the people and the
communities in it. That is why we are proud to
support and be part of Sunderland’s UK City
of Culture Bid 2021. Our customers are at the
heart of everything we do and we know how
proud they are of their city. We will be
and inspire people to support the city they
call home. If you are proud of where you work,
the people of Sunderland and the place you
call home – get behind your city.”
Everyone has a role to play in supporting the
City of Culture Bid and Gentoo is working with
their customers to find out why they think
that Sunderland should become the City of
Culture in 2021.
gentoogroup.com/sunderland
#Sunderland2021
If you are
proud of where
you work, the people
of Sunderland and
the place you call
home – get behind
your city.
Gentoo Group Limited is a charitable community benefit society.
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 35

The Karbon Bar will also be offering a
traditional afternoon tea which includes cakes
and sandwiches, along with an American
version which features dishes such as pork and
chorizo sliders, buffalo chicken wings and mini
key lime pie slices – all washed down with mini
milkshakes. A range of fresh speciality coffees
and teas are also available daily with a wide
selection of cakes and scones.
The Karbon Grill, which is open seven days a
week to the public also includes Sunday lunch,
where a two-course or three-course lunch is
available offering visitors a selection of dishes
including the meat of the day alongside
traditional puddings and a range of tasty
starters.
Future plans at the Karbon Grill include the
launch of The Five O’Clock Club on Thursdays
and Fridays which will include special offers,
complimentary bar snacks with the first round
of drinks and a range of discounts.
Room with a view
World renowned hotel chain Hilton recently
opened its first Hilton Garden Inn in the
North of England right here in Sunderland.
The contemporary hotel’s close proximity to
the Stadium of Light makes it the perfect base
for football fans, business travellers or tourists
visiting sites such as National Glass Centre,
Penshaw Monument, or the beaches of Roker
and Seaburn.
Added to this, its stunning destination
restaurant, the Karbon Grill Kitchen and Bar,
open daily to non-residents, has rapidly
established itself on the city’s thriving food and
drink scene and following a successful
introductory period, the Karbon Grill Kitchen
and Bar has added in a range of new seasonal
dishes for guests to tuck into as part of its late
Summer – Autumn menu.
This includes the addition of healthy eating
options such as the signature Karbon Salad
with marinated chicken breast, avocado and a
poached egg while the pasta and pizza offering
will see new dishes like New York style
spaghetti and meatballs and spinach and
ricotta artisan ravioli added.
During the day an enhanced version of the
main menu will be served in the Karbon Bar,
with the addition of a light bites offering for
anyone who prefers something less substantial
at lunch time.
Customers can also receive discounts and
offers by signing up to its weekly enewsletter.
Email enquiries@hgisunderland.com to sign up
or via the Hilton Garden Inn Sunderland
Facebook page www.facebook.com/
hgisunderland
Sunderland AFC season card holders also
receive special discounts including 15% off the
best available room rate at the hotel and 10%
off their food bill in the Karbon Grill Kitchen
and Bar.
For more information or to book
accommodation at the Hilton Garden Inn,
Sunderland please visit www.sunderland.
hgi.com, call 0191 500 9494 or email
enquiries@hgisunderland.com
Bookings for the Karbon Grill restaurant
can be made by emailing
karbongrill@hgisunderland.com or calling
0191 349 8500.
36

At the heart of the city,
on a world-wide stage
It is often said that as a city without a
cathedral, Sunderland’s iconic Stadium of
Light provides a spiritual home to tens of
thousands of passionate football fans. As it
approaches its 20th season as a premier
sporting venue, the Stadium of Light is set to
play host to its tenth consecutive season of
top flight football.
As well as being the focal point of the Wearside
community, the global interest in Premier
League football means that Sunderland AFC is
now seen everywhere from Iceland to China.
The Premier League is the most watched
sporting league in the world, viewed in a
staggering 185 countries.
Season Card Prices 2016-17 (valid from May 2016)
Season You can Card purchase Prices your 2016-17 season (valid card from online May at safc.com, 2016) 0871 911 1973,
or in person at the Stadium of Light ticket office.
FAMILY ZONE SINGING END
U37 U38 U39
ACCESS
TUNNEL
L34 L35 L36
PREMIER CONCOURSE
WEST STAND
EAST STAND
CARLING STAND
ACCESS
TUNNEL
Last season, Sunderland AFC enjoyed average
attendances of over 43,000, thanks to the
passionate and proud red and white army,
almost 14 million fans attended matches
league-wide. This phenomenal interest in the
beautiful game highlights the importance of
football to the city, bringing in tens of
thousands of tourists to Sunderland every year,
as well as significantly boosting the local
economy on match days.
As well as fans travelling from around the UK,
Sunderland also welcomes visitors from across
Europe, and in particular Holland and
Scandinavia, where the club has thriving
supporters’ clubs. Fans unable to commit to a
seat for the season can still buy tickets for
NORTH WEST UPPER
U29B U30B U31B
AWAY FANS
CARLING UPPER STAND
Stadium Category 2016-17
Price valid from May 2016
All seats
£380
Over Stadium 65
£280
Category
Adult £380
All Seats
£380
Over 65 £280
Under 16 (under 12s
Adult
not permitted Over 65 in the
Under 16 singing (Under 12s end) not
permitted in the singing end)
Under 22
2016-17
Price valid from May 2016
Age-based concessions are applicable Age-based as concessions of August are 1st applicable 2016. Proof as of August of age, 1st 2016. such Proof as a of copy age, such of passport
or birth certificate, is required when as a copy applying of passport for or any birth concessionary certificate, is required tickets, when applying such as for under any 12, under
16, under 22 or over 65. Regrettably concessionary applications tickets, cannot such as under be processed 12, under 16, without under 22 or this over documentation.
65. Regrettably
applications cannot be processed without this documentation.
£380
£280
£79
Family Zone
(1 Adult,
£405
(1 Adult, 1 Junior 1 Junior U16) U16)
£25
Family (Additional U16 Zone ticket)
(Additional U16 ticket)
Black Cats Bar £805
Wheelchair
Wheelchair
Personal Assistant
Away Fans
Matchday
Hospitality
£79
Under 22 £200 £200
All Seats £505
All Seats £505
Adult £465
Adult
£465
Over 65 £280
Over 65
£280
Under16 £79 £79
Under 22
£200
Under 22 £200
Family Zone
£405
£25
Black Cats Bar £805
Wheelchair
At prevailing prices
Wheelchair
Personal Assistant
Away Fans
Matchday
Hospitality
At prevailing prices above
above
Free of charge
Free of charge
Non season
card area
Non season
card area
Call 0871 911 1555
Call 0871 911 1555
individual games, with the Stadium of Light
affording some of the cheapest tickets in top
flight football.
Added to this, the stadium’s award-winning
matchday hospitality attracts up to 3,000
guests each game, from far and wide. Spanning
the stadium’s wide range of stunning suites,
lively bars and private executive boxes,
bespoke hospitality packages give businesses,
groups and individuals the opportunity to tap
into the drama and excitement of the Premier
League.
Adults can enjoy Premier League
action from as little as £25, discounts
available for concessions with
children’s tickets starting from £10.
For more information on Sunderland AFC’s
2016-17 fixtures, match ticket and
hospitality packages, visit www.safc.com
or call 0871 911 1200
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe
You can purchase your season card online at safc.com, 0871 911 1973,
or in person at the Stadium of Light ticket office
4648
37

CHANGE YOUR FUTURE WITH
SUNDERLAND COLLEGE
Sunderland College has hundreds of new
courses starting this September. From
introduction and taster courses to HNCs and
Professional Programmes, there’s something
for everyone.
Vibe Magazine caught up with Peter Harding
whose life has been transformed by
returning to study at Sunderland College.
Peter, from Town End Farm, Sunderland, came
to Sunderland College after deciding university
wasn’t for him. After a period of unemployment,
Peter was struggling to find work and keen to
start again, with a new career. He said ‘Part of
my problem was that I was trying to find a job
that would turn into a career. I signed up to a
few volunteer positions but then decided to
enrol myself on a Level 3 course and volunteer
in a primary school.
‘I’d already studied at the college before and
enjoyed it the first time around, so after a
conversation with a Curriculum Leader about
the course, I was confident I would enjoy it just
as much this time.
After seeking advice on the best option for him,
Peter enrolled on Supporting Teaching and
Learning in Schools Certificate to get him one
step closer to his ideal career path,
working in education. The course is a
requirement for anyone who would like
to be, a teaching assistant, for example.
Peter thoroughly enjoyed his course
and getting back into learning and is
now working in the classroom. He added, ‘I
enjoy being a teaching assistant, every day is
different. We really have to think on our feet to
respond to weird and wonderful challenges,
when you do, it is so rewarding.Being in
education allows me to make a major impact on
children’s lives, seeing these changes happen
is most definitely the best part of my job,’
38

After completing his Supporting Teaching and
Learning and Schools qualification, Peter was
keen to keep on learning and developing his
skills and knowledge to progress in his new
career, so discussed his next steps with the
teaching staff. He then chose the Foundation
Degree (FdA) Education and Care, a Higher
Education programme at our Washington
Campus, run in partnership with the University
of Sunderland.
This part-time Foundation Degree develops
the skills of those working with children in
nurseries, primary schools, youth centres or
similar settings. It gives those who complete
their course the option to progress to a full BA
degree at the University of Sunderland in
Education and Curriculum Studies.
Peter said, ‘I’m sure all of my classmates would
agree, the teaching staff create an incredibly
enjoyable learning environment. I’m planning
to complete my teacher training and NQT year
then move into a leadership role, once I have a
few years’ experience’
If you want to change your future like Peter,
visit www.sunderlandcollege.ac.uk/change to
find out about all of the courses on offer from
this September.
The teaching staff
create an incredibly
enjoyable learning
environment...
CITY OF CULTURE TO
SHAPE NEXT GENERATION
From photography to fashion, dance and
drama to games design, animation and
visual effects, Sunderland College has
over 750 students studying a course in
the creative arts.
The College has invested heavily in the
creative sector over the past couple of
years and opened a high spec Arts
Academy at its Bede Campus back in
2014. Spanning 50,000 square feet,
the building features a theatre; film
screening room; media/TV, drama,
dance, art, and fashion and clothing
studio; two industry standard recording
studios; a music technology suite;
photography studio; dark room and film
processing facilities.
For the students studying in these
industry standard facilities, the City of
Culture bid will deliver huge benefits
and the legacy of the bid will have an
impact on the future generation of
College students.
Ellen Thinnesen, Principal said: “I
strongly believe that achieving City of
Culture status will inspire our young
people and the impact that this would
have on talent attraction and retention
in our city is phenomenal.
“Sunderland would become a place that
further unlocks the creative passion of
our young people, a place where there
are more jobs in the creative and cultural
industries, ensuring everyone can fulfil
their potential.”
“We have a responsibility to our young
people and one of those is to create a
sustainable city – a city that is prepared
for the future and that will shine long into
it. I believe the bid can deliver this.”
Young people in the city will be invited
to play a key role in shaping the bid
and will be asked to develop their own
section within the final submission.
They will then play an active role in the
delivery of this, if the bid is successful.
Rebecca Ball, Sunderland 2021 Bid
Director said: “It’s vital that the bid we
submit captures the views of our next
generation. 2021 is four years away,
but its impact will be felt for many years
thereafter. Young people are likely to
be most impacted by the legacy 2021
leaves in its wake, so it is critical that
they are treated as key stakeholders in
this, and we’ll be working with them to
create a bid that meets their needs.”
To find out more about Sunderland’s
City of Culture Bid,
visit www.sunderland2021.com
To find out more about
studying a Creative course
at Sunderland College,
visit www.sunderlandcollege.ac.uk
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 39

Snowdogs,
shoes
& students
Students and Snowdogs are topping the guest list this
autumn at the Bridges.
With the changing season just around the corner,
shopping centre chiefs are gearing up for a busy few
months as they welcome new visitors, new stores and
a new public art project.
Shoppers have already started to benefit
from a host of new shops which have opened
their doors in recent months.
Following the return of plus size fashion
brand Yours Clothing earlier in the summer,
health food chain Holland and Barrett chose
to follow suit, opening a large branch within
the centre in June.
September will see the arrival of fashion
streetwear and sportswear giant Footasylum,
bringing its selection of leading sportswear
brands like Nike, Adidas, Vans, Converse and
many more.
September will also be the time the city
welcomes its new intake of students
arriving at the University of Sunderland,
and once again the Bridges will be doing its
best to make them feel welcome.
On Tuesday October 4 it will host its annual
Student Raid, a special one night only
shopping experience for young people
attending the university or one of the city’s
colleges.
This will be sixth time the Bridges has
staged the popular event, where students
get to enjoy a hefty discount in a range of
stores and pick up various freebies and
goodies on the night.
Centre Director Andy Bradley is looking
forward to a busy couple of months.
“Autumn is always a very busy time for the
Bridges and it’s one of our favourite times
of the year because such a lot happens,”
he explained.
“Our Student Raid is always popular with
students and our retailers are always keen
to offer their support. It’s a good chance
to welcome new and returning students
and is a popular event in our calendar.
“As well as this, we are very excited to be
unleashing a few Snowdogs in September
and we know our visitors will love it and it
will become a popular part of our autumn
celebrations here at the Bridges.”
40
Now centre chiefs are readying themselves
for a busy autumn as they prepare to
welcome four-legged friends in the form of
some of the Great North Snowdogs when the
new public art trail opens on September 19.

With Sunderland’s bid to
become UK City of Culture
2021 making headlines almost
daily in and around the city,
talk has turned to what a win
would mean for the average
man and woman who lives or
works here.
One thing about the bid is
certain – it will only happen
if organisations and people
from all walks of life get fully
behind it.
The Bridges
supports culture
in Sunderland
“Sunderland needs
culture, it needs to
embrace it.”
The Bridges Centre Director Andy Bradley
That’s just one of the reasons why the
Bridges is a huge supporter of the plans to
get the city to win the coveted title, at the
same time understanding what it will also
mean to the economy of Sunderland.
Centre Director Andy Bradley believes
everyone who lives, works or just spends
leisure time in the city should be getting
behind the bid, as he feels it will have a huge
and lasting impact.
“Sunderland needs culture, it needs to
embrace it,” he said. “The bid is all about
embracing cultural opportunities.
“Vibrancy is the key. We want to improve as
a city, bring more people and businesses in
which would lead to a much more eclectic mix
in the future, which is something we all want.”
The Bridges has already played host to
several cultural events in the last few years,
including the Month of Photography, the
Digital Zoo exhibition, the Beamish roadshow
and the Caravan Gallery tour.
Events like these showcase the fact that
cultural activities aren’t confined to art
galleries and museums and that a successful
bid will offer the opportunity to explore
culture in its broadest sense.
“City of Culture bids don’t go to cities where
there is already a massive cultural heritage,”
said Andy.
“Successful bids go to places with potential,
which are prepared to open their arms to
culture.”
Putting Sunderland on the national –
and international – cultural map can only
be good for retail in the city, which is already
benefiting from a host of new arrivals.
The newest arrivals include Footasylum,
Yours Clothing and Holland Barrett and
plans have been submitted for new 45,000
square foot NEXT store which would be built
as an extension.
Andy Bradley believes it shows a growing
confidence in the city, which he feels would
be strengthened further should Sunderland
be awarded the title in 2021.
“We’ve already got an amazing platform to
build on here thanks to the big investments
which have already been made and now we
need to push forward even more and look
to make Sunderland a better place to live,
work and enjoy.
“I believe we are already seeing a change in
peoples’ attitudes and how the bid can make
a big difference. I think more focus now needs
to be on striving towards a more vibrant,
cultural city.”
“Here at the Bridges we are fully supportive
of the initiative and we are looking forward
to embracing every opportunity that comes
up to boost the cultural experience for
visitors.”
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 41

Sunderland’s
recently-renovated seafront
now offers visitors even more.
Two of the finest beaches in the North East,
Seaburn and Roker feature long promenades,
making them ideal for walks and the chance
to take in the beauty of the one of the region’s
most attractive stretches of coastline.
The recently-renovated twin resorts of
Seaburn and Roker have a host of restaurants
and takeaways, offering diners the chance to
eat in style or simply sit on the promenade
with the area’s stunning views and backdrop.
They have also been recognised nationally,
with both recently been awarded the
prestigious Blue Flag status for their
cleanliness and amenities, in addition to being
named alongside the best beaches at the
2015 Seaside Awards for high standards of
cleanliness and facilities.
No matter what you’re looking for - thrills,
food or even a simple walk, you can find it at
one of our beautiful twin resorts. Roker is also
home to unique geological structures, with
rugged cliffs and unique ‘cannonball’
limestone rock formations which can only be
found in certain parts of the world. These
intriguing geological features are ideal for
explorers; circular rocks that resemble
cannon balls have also become the
inspiration for the large oak-clad, Roker Pods.
The wide golden sandy beaches at Seaburn
and Roker have been modernised with
improved street furniture, lighting, children’s
play areas and gorgeous greenery. The family
friendly beaches have wide paths for cycles
and buggies and there are pedestrian-only
promenades, perfect for that glorious brisk
walk with the sound of the ocean and the
tempting smell of fish and chips in the
background.
Take a stroll, bring a kite, make a sandcastle,
have a jog, swim, devour an ice cream, explore
the rock pools, tuck into fish and chips or
simply take a seat and gaze out and watch
the tide come and go.
42 vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe

Places to stay
Best Western Roker Hotel
Terrace Guest House
Balmoral Guest House
Chaise Guest House
Abbey Guest House
Areldee Guest House
Abingdon Guest House
Ashborne Guest House
Bede Guest House
April Guest House
Marina View Guest House
Queen Vic Hotel
Roker View Guest House
St Georges Guesthouse
Roker Seafront Apartments
Northcliff Self catering
Sunderland Marriott
Lemonfield Hotel
Mayfield Guest House
Pullman Lodge
Great places to eat and drink
Let there be crumbs,
Poetic License,
The Wolseley pub
The Harbour View
Bistro by the Sea
The Italian Farmhouse
Surf burger
Burgers Pier point
Downey’s fish & chips,
The Scullery,
The Chicken Shed
The Smugglers Pub
Fausto Coffee
The Queen Vic
The Bungalow Café
Marina Vista
Snow Goose
Sues Café
Marriott Hotel
The Promenade
Katie’s Kitchen
The Pullman Lodge
Fat Buddha
De Vito’s
Goa
Shagorika
Gabrielle’s
Martino’s
The Salt House Kitchen
Santinis
Minchellas’ Fish and Chips
Queens Café
Little Italy
Paradise Garden
The Water Front Café
Seldons café
Entertainment
Marine Activity Centre
Roker Amusements
Roker Cycle Hub
Seldons Leisure World
Jet Amusements
Go Bananas Soft Play House
Seaburn Centre
Beauty
Aroma Essence Salon
Glamour and go Hair Roker
SR1 Hairdressers
43

Believing every child
deserves the right to grow up in a
nurturing and loving family.
Wearside based independent adoption
agency ARC Adoption North East
continues to go from strength to strength
following their first Ofsted inspection in
spring 2015, which resulted in praise for
their outstanding ethical and
compassionate ethos, and the quality of
service.
Director at ARC Adoption North East, Terry
Fitzpatrick believes that every child deserves
the right to grow up in a nurturing and loving
family who will support them through
childhood and prepare them for adult life, he
said;
“For all of us here at ARC Adoption North East
it is a privilege to work in the field of adoption.
We use our extensive knowledge, experience
and skills to increase the opportunities for
children and adopters to experience a positive
family life.
Terry added; “Thousands of children across
the UK are waiting for families, and there are
Terry Fitzpatrick, Director at ARC Adoption NE
children here in Sunderland and surrounding
areas who are in need of a loving home. Sadly,
children with additional needs, those needing
to be placed with siblings and children over
the age of four wait the longest to be adopted,
and there is currently a shortage of adoptive
parents coming forward for these children. We
would love to hear from people who would be
interested in changing the lives of children and
their own lives through becoming adoptive
parents.
We’re dedicated to making a difference and
working towards helping such children find a
loving home whilst also ensuring that adoptive
parents receive a first class service and
support throughout their journey and beyond.”
ARC Adoption North East hosts informal
information evenings for anyone interested in
adoption. The informal information sessions
take place on the last Thursday of every
month, 7pm - 8,15pm, at ARC Adoption North
East’s office, Unit 29, North East Business and
Innovation Centre (BIC), Wearfield, Enterprise
Park East, Sunderland, SR5 2TA.
To find out more about the information
evenings or for information about adoption
call 0191 516 6466, email
info@arcadoptionne.org.uk or visit
www.arcadoptionne.org.uk
44

GENFACTOR ACTS TAKE THE
STAGE AT SUNNISIDE LIVE
Organised by housing association Gentoo,
the Genfactor is a talent competition that
aims to boost confidence and inspire future
generations.
Sunniside Live was a great opportunity for
previous finalists to perform on the main stage
as part of a line-up that included local northern
funk band Smooth and Turrell, Shola Ama,
Alison Limerick and headliners the Brand
New Heavies. Held on Saturday July 16,
Sunniside Live is the only music festival that is
held in Sunderland’s city centre. More than
3,500 people attended the festival in Sunniside
Gardens to watch established and emerging
acts – including Gentoo’s very own Genfactor
finalists.
Lewis Conlin is a 15 year old singer who
attends Castle View Academy, followed the
band and wowed the crowds with 'Let it go' by
James Bay and 'Mardy Bum' by the Artic
Monkeys. It was his musical talent and
captivating voice that won himself a place in
the Genfactor final 2015.
Michelle Meldrum, Executive Director
(Operations) at Gentoo said: “Gentoo are proud
supporters of the UK City of Culture Bid 2021.
There are so many reasons to be proud of our
city and this is one of them. The amount of
emerging cultural talent in our region is
breath-taking and we are so proud of how far
our Genfactor finalists have come. We are
delighted that they have been given the
opportunity to showcase their talents at
Sunniside Live. Sunderland is such a vibrant
city and we hope that the Genfactor continues
to inspire future generations and open new
opportunities for young emerging talent.”
Harry Collinson from Rough Diamond
Entertainment said: “As one of the partners
supporting this event I was thrilled to help
support and showcase up and coming talent in
the city.”
This year will be the eighth year the
competition has ran and will be held on
Wednesday October 26 at Rainton Meadows
Arena. Final auditions have already taken place
and the 12 acts who have made it to the final
will be announced in September 2016.
Indie Rock Band, Supersonic, is made up of
five talented young musicians aged 15 who
have been together for four years. The band
came third place in the Genfactor 2015, after
impressing the judges with their performance
of Jet’s ‘Are you gonna be my girl’. At Sunniside
Live they rocked the stage singing Lonely Boy
by the Black Keys, Waterfall by the Stone
Roses and Supersonic by Oasis.
Gentoo still has 50
tickets to give away!
If you would like a ticket email
competitions@sunderlandvibe.com
quoting ref: GENFACTOR by Monday
September 12 2016. Maximum of four
tickets per person. For terms and
conditions see vibemagazine.co.uk.
For further information and to keep up to date
visit gentoogroup.com or visit Gentoo’s social
media pages.
Gentoo Group Limited is a charitable community benefit society
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 45

Sun FM, after giving away prizes
and cash worth £7,000 in a single day
at the end of May, has carried on giving to
Wearside.
A £3,000 Caribbean Cruise
aboard the P&O Super-liner ‘Azura’ with Hays
Travel was recently won by playing ‘Passports
to Pass Ports’. Thousands of people
registered to play, with our overjoyed winner
being Jackie Taylor.
Win £2,000 by
guessing the Secret
Sound - we have a new sound that
needs identifying after our last one was
won. Make sure you go online at
www.sun-fm.com to hear it and you
can play now 3-4 times a day!
Across July and August we went to
more than 20 locations on our £1,000
cash tour. Every day we gave away cash to
people who came and played our cash machine.
Everybody playing went into a draw and one
lucky person won £1,000 cash. Keep listening for
your next chance to win more great prizes.
Sunny the Seagull will also be out and about all
year at all major events giving out stickers and
more, with Go North East.
As the official media partner for the
UK City of Culture Bid 2021, we asked you
what you thought made this place so special. We
were inundated with suggestions and 21 people
won a variety of prizes ranging from Bridges
shopping vouchers, SAFC tickets and meals. We
want to help make this city great, and if we can all
support the Bid and help win, we will all benefit.
Following on the back of Lawson and Izzy Bizu,
we had the pleasure of Olly Murs visiting us at
Sun FM and spending time with Simon and
Danni. Hear the interview or watch the video
online at www.sun-fm.com. He loves coming to
Sunderland and you may see yourself in the video
in the crowd that greeted him.
To hear a great blend
of his and other
music from now and
the last 30 years
keep listening to your
local radio station
-Sun FM.
For super local news
happening near you
Tune
in on
103.4FM
or listen via our
free app, or online at
www.sun-fm.
com-listen live.
£300K INVESTMENT
FOOTBALL PITCHES TO GET NEW LEASE OF LIFE
AT THE SILKSWORTH SPORTS COMPLEX
Sports and leisure operator, Everyone Active, is reviving the football pitches at the
Silksworth Sports Complex, after investing £300k to replace and re-open them to the public.
Two 11-a-side and six seven-a-side pitches are being installed, all of which will be fully
flood-lit. Repairs and paint work will also be carried out on the pitches’ kickboards and
surrounding fences. The pitches have been closed for several years and are due to be reopened
to the public in early August.
Dean Randall, General Manager at Silksworth Sports Complex, said: “It’s great that we’re
able to invest funds into the pitches and allow local people to make use of them again.”
The centre will hold an open day on Sunday 25th September 2016 to celebrate their launch,
with a range of free activities on offer.
For further information on the football pitches
at Silksworth Sports Complex,
please contact the centre directly on 03330 050153.
For further information on Everyone Active,
visit www.everyoneactive.com.
46
everyoneactive.com
SilksworthSport
@SilksworthSport

Made in
Sunderland
We’ve had loads of amazing
entries for the Made In
Sunderland Design Competition,
and as there’s still a few days left
to enter we thought we’d share
some of our favourites with you.
We’ve had paintings, drawings,
stories, songs, poems and
pictures and many other things
besides.
So get those creative juices
flowing and you could be in with
a chance of winning one of our
£250 cash prizes. It’s this kind of
amazing artistic talent which is
bound to make Sunderland a
great UK City of Culture in 2021.
The closing date for the
competition is September 5, and
entries can be sent to
competition@macsunderland.
co.uk.
1
3
2
One of the poems so far submitted …
North Star
And ships were born,
with shooting stars from the welder's gun.
Then light faded into darkness,
across the playing fields of Roker.
Old men chewed the football cud
as soundwaves echoed across the city,
finding a new pitch.
Through the changing seasons of light,
this investment nirvana gleams in a citadel
of colour.
Now, these Northern Lights are all
Red and White.
And ships were born,
with shooting stars from the welder's gun.
Ian Horn
1: Jessica Browne 2: John Doyle 3: Bob Hammond
vibemagazine.co.uk | @SunderlandVibe | SunderlandVibe 47

Share the passion
If you haven't seen a Snowdog yet, then you probably will soon.
The adorable creatures form the region's biggest ever public art trail,
a large part of which is on Wearside.
Presented by creative producers Wild in Art and working in partnership
with St Oswald’s Hospice, The Great North Snowdog Trail has brought
businesses, artists, schools and communities together to create a public
art trail of 60 decorated giant Snowdog sculptures which will be on
display from September 19 for ten weeks.
There is also a number of mini Snowdogs decorated by school children
which will make up part of the trail.
The giant sculptures have been sponsored by regional companies and
organisations, and at the end of the trail they will be auctioned to raise
money for St Oswald’s
NEW AND IMPROVED GYM AND FITNESS
FACILITIES
Hospice,
COMING
which
SOON
provides
AT SILKSWORTH’S
specialist care
TENNIS
for adults,
CENTRE
young people and children with incurable conditions.
Brought to you by
In association with
everyoneactive.com
A range of brand new
facilities are coming
soon at the Silksworth
Community Pool,
Tennis and Wellness
Centre. The centre’s
exciting £1.2million
refurbishment will
include a brand new
gym, a virtual spin
studio, a second group
exercise studio and a
function suite.
The centre’s gym will include the
latest Technogym kit, featuring a
range of cardio equipment with
internet-enabled interactive screens.
SilksworthPool
Building work at the centre is now
well underway and the fantastic new
developments will all be unveiled at
a FREE opening event on Sunday 3rd
April 2016.
Ian Bradgate, Contract Manager for
Everyone Active, said:
“This is a very exciting time
for the Silksworth Community
Pool, Tennis and Wellness
Centre and it will allow us to
provide many more high-quality
facilities for local people.”
@SilksworthPool
Memberships at the
centre start from as little
as 69p per day.
Members can either join
in-centre or online via
www.everyoneactive.com
6149_Sunderland Vibe February_Advertorial_v3.indd 1 28/01/2016 14:46
The designs of the individual dogs are being kept secret until the trail is
launched – but local organisations involved include: Sunderland BID, the
Bridges, SAFC, Gentoo, Nexus, Stagecoach, and The Galleries. In total,
13 large Snowdogs will be on Wearside, in places including Park Lane,
the Bridges, National Glass Centre, SAFC, Market Square, Keel Square,
Sunniside and at the Minster along with some further afield.
For further information, visit www.greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk.
If you live in Sunderland but have not received a copy of Vibe at your
home address, and would like to ensure you get future editions, please
email your name and home address to editor@sunderlandvibe.com
To read Vibe online visit www.vibemagazine.co.uk @SunderlandVibe
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