The curtain has gone up on Darlington Hippodrome’s new spring/summer season of shows which is packed with showstopping performances for audiences through the summer months and beyond.

The new season includes the best of the West End, traditional family favourites, dance productions, and thrilling drama. Here is just a snap-shot of the shows on offer.

If you are a fan of musicals, you will be spoilt for choice. In April Darlington Operatic Society presents Grease, a show that needs little introduction.

In May, The Commitments, the stage adaptation of the classic 1991 film telling the story of the trials and tribulations of putting a new soul band together in Dublin.

The Northern Echo: The Commitments comes to Darlington Hippodrome in May. Picture: Ellie KurttzThe Commitments comes to Darlington Hippodrome in May. Picture: Ellie Kurttz (Image: Ellie Kurttz)

Read more: Gareth Gates and Jenny Ryan join cast of Darlington Hippodrome pantomime this year

In October, Heathers The Musical hits the stage. Winner of the 2019 What’s On Stage Best New Musical, Heathers is a black comedy rock musical based on the 1988 smash hit film.

The Northern Echo: Heathers The Musical comes to Darlington Hippodrome. Picture: Pamela RaithHeathers The Musical comes to Darlington Hippodrome. Picture: Pamela Raith (Image: Pamela Raith)

In November the music of Gary Barlow will be ringing around the Hippodrome’s auditorium with Calendar Girls The Musical.

Inspired by the true story of a group of friends and their drive to create a charity calendar that raised more than a few eyebrows.

In May Darlington Hippodrome will again welcome BalletLorent with two unique and very different interpretations of the Rapunzel story.

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Rapunzel After Dark is exclusively for adults with a passion for the horror and hope of humanity.

On the flip side, Rapunzel is the family friendly version with emotional storytelling at its heart.

The Northern Echo: Rapunzel is making its way to Darlington Hippodrome in May. Picture: Luke WaddingtonRapunzel is making its way to Darlington Hippodrome in May. Picture: Luke Waddington (Image: Luke Waddington)

In June, we go back in time to the 1970s for a brand-new stage adaptation of Abigail’s Party, a funny analysis of British suburban life where an innocent drinks party with neighbours leads to emotional breakdowns and tragedy. Based on the ever-popular play by Mike Leigh, this is definitely one for those who enjoy observational comedy.