For Disney fans it's a wish come true as Sunderland Empire reveals it will be hosting mega-hit musical Aladdin for a lengthy spell early next year.
The Broadway and West End spectacular is to embark upon its first ever UK and Ireland tour and it will include a run in Sunderland from February 15 to March 10, 2024. And while that's still a year away, it is offering people a chance to sign up now to ensure early access to tickets.
Disney's lavish take on the hugely popular tale of Aladdin, the magic carpet, lamp and three wishes, already has been seen by more than 14m people worldwide. Based on the 1992 animated film - itself inspired by folk tale One Thousand and One Nights - it combines magic, comedy and stand-out visuals and it features new songs by multiple award-winners Alan Menken, the winner of eight Oscars; Howard Ashman and Tim Rice whose combined musical credits range from Beauty and the Beast to Evita.
