Preview: Something in the Water 2026 at Newcastle Theatre Royal

🎭 SOMETHING IN THE WATER WITH JOE MCELDERRY RETURNS TO NEWCASTLE THEATRE ROYAL

An electrifying celebration of North East talent is back — bigger, bolder, and bursting with heart.

Following a triumphant debut in 2024 that raised over £28,000 for local arts and youth initiatives, Something in the Water will make a much-anticipated return to Newcastle Theatre Royal on Sunday 28 June 2026 — with two shows at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

At the helm once again is Joe McElderry, the South Shields-born vocal powerhouse and X Factor 2009 winner, whose connection to the region runs as deep as the Tyne. A familiar face at Newcastle Theatre Royal, Joe’s starring turns in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and the upcoming 2025-26 pantomime season (Aladdin, no less!) have made him something of a local legend.

💫 STAR-STUDDED LINE-UP

Returning with Joe are North East funk-soul titans Groovetrain, led by musical director and venue owner Michael Lavery. Known for their infectious energy and soaring brass hooks, Groovetrain will once again anchor the evening with a live set guaranteed to get Grey Street grooving.

Also promised are a host of “yet to be announced” guest stars, expected to include familiar faces from TV, radio, and the UK music scene — building on the momentum of 2024’s stellar guests like:

• Steph McGovern, TV host and razor-sharp compère;

• Panto royalty Danny Adams;

• Comedian and Geordie Laugh Machine Carl Hutchinson;

• Legendary vocalist Lorraine Crosby, the iconic female voice behind Meat Loaf’s I Would Do Anything for Love;

• And podcasting dynamo Rosie Ramsey, whose magnetic stage presence made her a breakout favourite.

If 2024 was anything to go by, 2026’s edition is set to be another whirlwind of comedy, song, and heartfelt storytelling.

🎤 JOE’S HOMECOMING

In Joe McElderry’s own words:

“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. 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.”

Joe has long been a proud ambassador for the North East. After winning The X Factor, his debut single The Climb hit No.1, and his career has since spanned multiple genres — from pop to musical theatre. Known for his warm stage presence and vocal precision, Joe has cultivated a loyal fanbase who celebrate both his music and his commitment to giving back.

🎶 A NIGHT FOR THE NORTH EAST

More than just a concert, Something in the Water is a love letter to the region — blending the classic charm of variety performance with the feel-good punch of a stadium show. And it’s all for a good cause.

The 2026 event will once again raise funds for:

• Newcastle Theatre Royal Trust, an independent charity responsible for the iconic Grey Street venue and its youth programme TRY (Theatre Royal Youth); and

• A second charity to be announced, expected to continue the event’s focus on youth, arts and regional opportunity.

In 2024, proceeds helped fund workshops, theatre access for underprivileged children, and musical development through organisations like North East Music Opportunities (NEMO) CIC. Over £14,000 went to each charity — enabling vital creative engagement for the next generation of artists.

🎟️ TICKETS & BOOKING

Tickets go on sale soon, and with a limited number of performances, demand is expected to be sky-high.

• Wed 30 July – Friends Plus members: 10am | Friends: 2pm

• Thu 31 July – Groups/Schools: 10am | General public: 2pm

Family tickets and Under 16s concessions will be available, continuing the Theatre Royal’s commitment to affordable access.

🎫 Book online at www.theatreroyal.co.uk
📞 Or call the Box Office: 0191 232 7010

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🎉 WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IT

If you believe in the power of live performance to inspire, if you want to support local talent in one of the UK's most majestic theatres, or if you just fancy a feel-good evening that’s packed with soul, sparkle, and Geordie spirit — Something in the Water is your perfect ticket.

Expect standing ovations, surprise appearances, and a sea of proud faces from across the North East. The region’s talent is calling — and it sounds better than ever.