AN award-winning musical is coming to a Wearside theatre.

The West Yorkshire Playhouse's production of Singin' in the Rain will stop off at the Sunderland Empire Theatre as part of its first national tour.

Directed by Jude Kelly and winner of the 2001 Olivier award for Best Musical Production, the tour follows two successful Royal National Theatre runs and a season at the West Yorkshire Playhouse.

A spokesman for the show said: "Singin' in the Rain remains one of the most popular musicals of all time.

"Jude Kelly's revival with designs by Huntley Muir and choreography by Stephen Mear chronicles one of the most memorable events in the history of entertainment; when the silver screen found its voice.

"With all the ravishing and spectacular trappings of this glittering era, the musical tells a tale of love and intrigue set at the heart of the movie industry and features such memorable songs as Be A Clown, Good Morning and the classic title song."

The show runs from March 19 to 30, with performances at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. To book tickets, priced from £8.50, ring the box office on 0191-514 2517.