The streets of Sunderland city centre will be alive with pop music, street dance and celebrity tribute acts this half term as a series of events kick off ahead of the One Direction concert at the Stadium of Light.
On Tuesday 27th and Wednesday 28th, visitors to the city centre will be treated to a free programme of family entertainment. The events, which will be delivered by Sunderland BID working in partnership with Sunderland Live, will be held in Market Square, Blandford Street, High Street, The Bridges and Park Lane between 12 and 4.30pm both days, while Sun FM’s Mark Black will be broadcasting live from the city centre each day from 10am.
For fans of One Direction and The Wanted, tribute act “The Wanted Direction” will be singing a selection of both bands’ favourite hits hours ahead of the ‘real’ 1D’s gig at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday night. While fans of Olly Murs can see tribute artist Dan Claxton perform a series of the X Factor finalist’s songs.
Dance fans have the chance to see Sunderland street dance group, Dance JAM, perform over the two days while acoustic musicians will be performing around the city centre streets. They’ll be providing a mix of original tunes and some interesting covers in keeping with the themes of the Stadium of Light Concerts.
Ken Dunbar, chief executive of BID Sunderland, said: “This is the start of something really special in Sunderland and the BID is delighted to help bring the city to life with music and dance, building on the fantastic concerts that will take place at the Stadium of Light this summer. There’s more fun to come in Sunderland’s city centre this year and we’re encouraging all families to come and experience the atmosphere.
“It’s also a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy what the many unique cafés, restaurants and shops have to offer. So get along to the city centre on the 27 and 28 and enjoy yourself.”
“The city will be full of newcomers to Sunderland as One Direction fans head to the Stadium of Light and this is our chance to show them what a vibrant and fun city we live in.”
Andy Bradley, chair of the BID Board and centre director of the Bridges, added: “The acts joining us over the 2 days demonstrate the versatility of Wearside and bring a street festival vibe to the city centre. There are many opportunities for visitors to join in and we hope you enjoy yourself.”
Come to Sunderland city centre on Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 of May for the BID’s unmissable two-day event full of live music and street acts including:
The Wanted Direction Tribute in Market Square at 12:30pm & 3pm on both days
Olly Murs Tribute in Market Square at 1:30pm & 4pm on both days
And Dance Jam in Market Square at 12:15pm, 1:15pm & 2:15pm on both days