About this venue
Sunderland Empire is one of the most distinctive historic theatres in North East England. Opened in 1907, it stands out for its elaborate Edwardian architecture, domed exterior and richly decorated interior, while the building is protected as a Grade II* listed landmark. Its four-tier auditorium provides around 1,860 seats, allowing the theatre to accommodate major touring musicals, plays, ballet, concerts and other large-scale stage productions.
Inside, the venue retains the atmosphere of a traditional grand theatre, with views of the stage from the Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle and Gallery. The multi-level auditorium creates a strong sense of connection with the stage, while the acoustic experience and sightlines vary according to the production and chosen seat. Visitors also have access to bars and other food and drink options before performances and during intervals.
The theatre is centrally located in Sunderland at High St W, Sunderland, United Kingdom. Drivers can use The Bridges multi-storey car park, which is a short walk from the venue, and continue on foot towards the main entrance on High Street West. For wider transport options and getting around Sunderland, see the city travel information further down the page.
About the city
Sunderland, a lively coastal city in North East England, blends sporting passion and concert energy with a relaxed seaside feel. Thanks to a strong events scene and recognizable venues, the city is a frequent choice for major sporting fixtures and live performances, offering visitors an experience that fits easily into a short city break or a longer weekend. Sunderland also provides plenty of restaurants, pubs, and accommodation options for different budgets, making trip planning straightforward and stress-free.
A key advantage for getting in and moving around is the Tyne and Wear Metro (Nexus), which links the wider area and makes access to key locations simple. Sunderland station is a convenient hub for both rail and Metro, while local bus routes add coverage across neighborhoods and the seafront. If you arrive by air, Newcastle International Airport offers solid regional connectivity, and the combination of Metro and rail links makes reaching arenas and stadiums quick and intuitive—whether you’re heading to a match or a concert.
If you have time before or after the event, it’s worth strolling along the River Wear to catch the city’s vibe around its paths and bridges, then heading to the coast at Roker and Seaburn where the sea adds a distinctive touch to the whole outing. Culture lovers often choose the National Glass Centre, while the city center is ideal for an easy walk and a coffee before the evening program. Sunderland is exactly the kind of city where a top-tier event naturally becomes a complete experience.
