Culture House Sunderland has announced plans for a spectacular large-scale production to mark its opening in Spring 2026.
Culture House Sunderland has announced plans for a spectacular large-scale production to mark its opening in Spring 2026.
Southpaw Company, which has delivered ambitious, cutting-edge performances internationally, are creating the bespoke production HOME for the opening of the major new cultural venue, which will include a cast of up to 100 community participants as well as professional dancers.
The interactive event will include live music, dance, aerial performance and cinematic projection mapping on the exterior of the building.
Robby Graham, Artistic Director at Southpaw Company, said: “The concept of the show is based around the Overview Effect, which is what astronauts experience when viewing Earth from space and the spiritual impact of there being no borders, just everyone that has ever existed on this pale blue dot.
“From that perspective, we then zoom in on Sunderland as our HOME – it will bring to life Sunderland’s history of shipyards, glass, football and music before looking towards the future and the fantastic opportunities on the horizon – a nod to the ambitious regeneration that is going on in the city.
“Culture House will be a place for people to meet and connect and we wanted to reflect that in this performance and also showcase how beautiful and welcoming Sunderland is – it will be a real kick off for the venue.”
Based out of Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland, Southpaw Company is one of the UK’s leading creators of large-scale, community-driven performance having delivered shows as far afield as Australia.
However, this commission gives the company the opportunity to produce a show in its home city and create opportunities for local communities to take part in something unique.
“We’re really excited to have this opportunity and bring something pretty special to the city where we’re based and to bring the community together,” added Robby.
“We’ve created 18 large-scale productions in the last 13 years and every time it’s incredible to see people getting involved who may never have performed before. It brings people out of isolation and builds their confidence and physical fitness.
“Anybody from 16+ can take part and there’s no need to have previous experience. I’d encourage anyone who is interested to come along to our open calls.”
Cllr Beth Jones, Cabinet Member of Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: “I’m delighted to be able to announce this fantastic production as part of the opening programme of Culture House Sunderland.
“Southpaw Company have a track record of not only delivering unique and spectacular performances but also making a real difference to communities.”
Anyone interested in taking part can register their interest at southpaw.org.uk or through the Linktree on its Instagram page @southpawcompany.
Opening in Spring 2026, Culture House Sunderland, a multi-million pound, four floor cultural venue at Keel Square, aims to create a living room in the heart of the city where everyone feels welcome and loves to spend time.
Phase 1 of the build is nearing completion, which includes all structural and ground works, with the keys set to be handed over to Sunderland City Council by the constructors so the phase 2 fit out can begin.
Cllr Beth Jones, Cabinet Member of Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: “Culture House Sunderland will be a fantastic addition to the city, providing a key city centre focal point and a really great attraction for both residents and visitors to enjoy.
“The mix of events, exhibitions, top of the range tech, resources and outstanding food offering will make it a standout venue in the region, if not nationally.”
The venue will be able to host talks, gigs, comedy shows and creative gatherings in its large adaptable spaces, as well as more intimate shows such as film screenings and gaming battles.
Throughout the year there will be a range of events and exhibitions in the gallery spaces, attracting national exhibits, as well as showcasing local talent.
The new city library will include a huge range of physical and digital books and magazines, as well as state of the art local history archives and genealogy resources.
The Den will house an array of children’s books and a space for little ones to play creatively and enjoy enchanting stories.
For young people, The Teen Library will feature gaming stations, VR headsets, as well as cosy reading nooks and spaces to do homework.
