Sunday for Sammy Celebrates Their 25th Anniversary by Announcing Two Shows at Utilita Arena Newcastle
After a five-year hiatus, the much-loved Sunday for Sammy is back to mark its 25th anniversary with a series of exciting celebratory events.
Sunday for Sammy is a charity that supports emerging creative talent in the North East of England, particularly in the performing arts. It was established in memory of the late Geordie actor Sammy Johnson, known for his roles in Spender and Auf Wiedersehen, Pet.
The charity raises funds primarily through biennial variety concerts held in Newcastle, featuring well known North East entertainers such as Tim Healy, Kevin Whately, Charlie Hardwick, Jill Halfpenny and many others. The money raised provides grants to help young performers with training, equipment, or other resources to further their careers in music, theatre, comedy, and film.
February 6th marked the Trust’s 25th Anniversary of its first Concert, held at Newcastle City Hall. Since that first event, the Trust has gone on to support and create an impressive alumni including performers such as Jason Cook, Rosie Ramsey, ‘Wor Bella’ actress Catherine Dryden and many musicians, singers, actors, performers, writers and technicians.
The breakfast event highlighted the charity’s ongoing support for young performers and. made some key announcements as show producer Ray Laidlaw explained: “We are delighted to announce that the show will return to the Utilita Arena Newcastle on February 15th, 2026, and tickets will go on sale on 15th February this year. As this is a special year for us, we will also be holding several other events and shows including our popular “Sketch for Sammy “competition.”
The Trust also announced two patrons for the charity – both North East icons. Vera actress Brenda Blethyn and musician Matty Healy from The 1975 will help to promote the work of the charity. Both have appeared in previous shows.
Additionally, a special pop-up flash mob featuring students from Gateshead College was performed in various locations around Newcastle including the Central Station and The Monument. The students danced to a song specially written by Sunday for Sammy recipient Joe Allan and performed by Joe and Imogen Williams, another Sunday for Sammy grantee. Nexus, the public body which runs Metro, said it was delighted to host the live performances on the Metro and the Shields Ferry to mark the 25 the anniversary of Sunday for Sammy and the show’s return to the stage following its five year hiatus.
Sunday for Sammy Partnership Lead, Tony Apicella said: “We are very grateful to the many organisations large and small who have pledged to help the Trust in its 25th anniversary year. We have been amazed by the interest and love shown for what we do to help young people in the performing arts.”
Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: "I'm absolutely thrilled that Sunday for Sammy is returning. For more than two decades it's been one the greatest regular events we've had in the city, and I know our communities will be delighted for it to be back.
"It's fitting that its return is announced on the 25th anniversary of its very first concert, an event that went on to inspire something of a city tradition.
"There are some fantastic names lined up for what promises to be a spectacular occasion that makes a huge difference to a very important charity in the process."
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “Sunday for Sammy has a special place in the hearts of people in Newcastle. I’m thrilled that this iconic show will return for the first time after the pandemic to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Sunday for Sammy captures what is so special about our region- showcasing our creativity and kindness, and bringing joy to others.”
Tickets for Sunday for Sammy at Utilita Arena Newcastle on Sunday 15th February 2026 go on sale from Saturday 15th February at 10:00AM from www.utilitaarena.co.uk.
