Something in the Water with Joe Mcelderry to return to Newcastle Theatre Royal in June 2026

Following the huge success of this summer’s Something in the Water show with Joe McElderry, which raised over £28,000 for charity, the jubilant celebration of North East talent will return to Newcastle Theatre Royal (Sun 28 Jun 2026).

Joe, a fan favourite from our annual panto hailing from South Shields, will be joined once again by special guests Groovetrain, the North East’s powerhouse funk-soul supergroup, and other exciting acts from across the region, yet to be announced.

Something in the Water blends the charm of traditional cabaret with the energy of a live concert, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic theatre in Grey Street. Money raised from ticket sales will support talent development in the region via two charities – Newcastle Theatre Royal Trust, the charity that runs the Theatre Royal and its youth programme TRY; and another charity, soon to be revealed. 

The line-up from the inaugural Something in the Water in May boasted extraordinary talent and humour that only the North East can offer. Hosted by sharp-witted TV presenter Steph McGovern, audiences for the two shows howled at Theatre Royal panto Royalty Danny Adams, and comedian Carl Hutchinson, and sang along with Lorraine Crosby, best known as the voice behind the global hit I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That) with Meat Loaf, and with podcaster and presenter Rosie Ramsey.

Profits benefitted Theatre Royal Youth (TRY), the theatre’s youth company for young people aged 16 – 20 to develop performance skills, explore creativity and connect with others; and North East Music Opportunities (NEMO) CIC – helping young people across the region to access opportunities in music and the performing arts. Both received more than £14,000 to continue their work.

Joe McElderry, who performed as The Pharaoh at the Theatre Royal in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in June, and who will also perform in a bumper production of Aladdin over 8 weeks from November, said: “Bringing Something in the Water back to the Theatre Royal feels like coming home. It’s such a special show, rooted in the heart and humour of the North East, and I’m proud to see it grow here. Supporting and developing young talent from our region is so important—our communities are full of incredible voices and stories, and they deserve to be heard on the biggest stages.”

As an independent charity with no regular funding, Newcastle Theatre Royal relies on fundraising to deliver its enriching creative outreach and talent development programmes, connect with communities and preserve the Grade I listed theatre. Ticket sales cover only about half of income after costs, making additional support essential. 

Kelly Smith, Head of Development at Newcastle Theatre Royal, said: “We’re known at Newcastle Theatre Royal for presenting World Class shows that create memories that last a lifetime, but our charity work for creating pathways to creativity for people of all ages in the region is lesser known. Something in the Water in May provided us with £14,000 which will help local children access our enriching Creative Engagement programme through a number of exciting schemes, and will help us create magical, transformative experiences for the young people who need them most.”

The event, like last time, is produced by Joe and Michael Lavery, a musical director and music venue owner and promoter in the city, who also fronts the Groovetrain band. It promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with live music, stellar performances, and heartwarming moments. Expect to see some of the region’s most exciting talents, including stars from the music charts, the stage, and the screen, united in their passion for music and entertainment.

As Joe, Michael and their gang proved before, this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a few hours of entertainment while supporting two worthy causes that nurture the next generation of creative talent. 

Something in the Water plays Newcastle Theatre Royal Sun 28 Jun 2026, 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

Tickets go on sale to Newcastle Theatre Royal Friends Plus members on Wed 30 Jul at 10am and to Friends at 2pm. They go on sale to Flexi Priority Pass, Groups and Schools on Thu 31 Jul at 10am and to the public at 2pm. Family tickets and Under 16s concessions are available. 

Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.