The ultimate SAFC fan production is coming to Sunderland Empire next month

The production which follows the Carter family features an entirely local cast starring Joe Caffrey as Billy Carter (dad), Jayne Mackenzie as Ruby Carter (mam), Ainsley Fannan as Kevin Carter (son), Jude Nelson as Neila Carter (daughter), Peter Peverley as family friend Charlie Thompson, and James Hedley as The Busker.

The Sunderland Story is a brilliant feel-good show about family, friends and a lifelong love of the red and white stripes of a beloved football club, celebrated through the songs of its proud supporters including Cheer Up Peter Reid, Sunderland Take Over, Sunderland Till I Die, Can’t Help Falling in Love and many more.

The Sunderland Story is told through the eyes of the Carter and Thompson families, who during a wake for their beloved grandfather William, realise that much of their family history always seems to link back to the story of Sunderland AFC.

Recounted through the decades, for many this show will take you on a trip down memory lane, while for younger fans this will be a joyous education - a chance to discover all about the club’s trophies, legends, and a city’s extraordinary shipbuilding and mining heritage - all told through drama, comedy and music.

The Sunderland Story is about the people of this city and their love of one club. It’s the passionate Sunderland fanbase who remain the beating heart of the club’s foundation - its past, its future, its everything!

Joe Caffrey said: “It’s about time this story was told. I think Sunderland football club represents the town and the feeling within the town and I think it’s really important that this happens at the Empire theatre which is a great venue. I think for a lot of people who have never been to the theatre before, this is a great way in because this is going to tell a story that they really are invested in. It's emotional, it’s going to be funny, it’s got songs in it, so I think it’s going to be a great night out.”

James Hedley said: “To be honest this means everything doing this show. All my family are huge Sunderland fans, and this would have meant a lot to my dad. I think the city needs this right now. The club is on the up and I think it just shows the passion we have for this city and for the club so I’m absolutely over the moon and I can’t wait to get started.”

Jude Nelson said: “I am really excited about performing at the Sunderland Empire. My mum is from Sunderland, so I feel like I’m doing the family proud and I’m really looking forward to feeling a real sense of community and performing in front of an audience full of Sunderland fans, football fans and people who are just true Mackem through and through.”

 

The Sunderland Story is at Sunderland Empire from Wednesday, 17 until Saturday, May 27. Tickets are available online at ATGtickets.com/sunderland* *A £3.80 transaction fee applies.