Sunderland Empire - Book by Alistair Robinson

The Sunderland Empire is one of the grand old provincial theatres; this fascinating collection of more than 150 archive photographs is a comprehensive history of the building and indeed of the stage itself. From Stan Laurel and Charlie Chaplin, both of whom served a Sunderland apprenticeship, to Marlene Dietrich, Ivor Novello and the Beatles, the roll call of talent, both local and international, who have stepped upon the Empire's boards is simply astounding. This collection charts the evolution of the Empire from the days of Victorian music hall, where Vesta Tilley could be found entertaining the crowds in top hat and tails with a rousing chorus of 'Jolly Good Luck to the Girl who Loves a Soldier', to the jazz age, the revues of the post-war era and the plays and concerts of today. This is an essential guide for anyone with an interest in the history of the theatre. 

Alistair Robinson is Entertainments Editor at the Sunderland Echo; many of these images are taken from the paper's extensive archives. This is a much expanded and updated version of the author's earlier history of the theatre. 

• ISBN-10 : 0752443402
• ISBN-13 : 978-0752443409
• Dimensions : 16.51 x 0.74 x 23.5 cm
• Paperback : 128 pages
• Publisher : The History Press (7 Mar. 2007)
• Language : English