A BUMPER programme of live entertainment, family shows, film, exhibitions and community events is coming to Arts Centre Washington (ACW) this autumn.
The venue has unveiled an ambitious seasonal programme, bringing acclaimed touring theatre, nationally recognised musicians, emerging North East talent, family entertainment, comedy, cinema and community events to audiences in Washington and beyond.
Matt Blyth, General Manager at ACW, said: “We’re really excited to be welcoming audiences for what promises to be one of our most varied autumn seasons yet. From powerful touring theatre and fantastic live music to family adventures, comedy, film and our Christmas programme, there really is something for everyone.
“It’s particularly important to us that the programme reflects the creativity of our region, so alongside established touring artists we’re proud to showcase emerging local talent and provide opportunities for our community to get involved. We want Arts Centre Washington to be a place where people can discover something new, enjoy great entertainment and feel a real sense of belonging.”
The season gets underway with the Right Track X YMP gig on Friday, September (from 7pm), showcasing young musicians from ACW’s Right Track project alongside participants from the Young Musicians Project.
Other autumn highlights include improv group The Noise Next Door bringing their acclaimed comedy to Washington on Thursday, October 15, followed by The Wind in the Willows on Saturday, October 24 (11am and 2pm) – a family-friendly adaptation featuring puppetry, music and inventive storytelling.
Theatre audiences can then enjoy adult drama Close Enough To Touch on Thursday, October 29 (7.30pm]; children’s circus and dance adventure Azra Glow on Saturday, November 7 (11am and 2pm); family musical Red Robin’s Winter Song on Saturday, November 14, (2pm); It’s a Wonderful Us, a celebration of learning-disabled lives on Thursday, November 19 (7.30pm), and ghost story Deepest Fears on Thursday, November 26 (7.30pm).
Other music highlights include an appearance from TV soap Neighbours’ Dr Karl Kennedy when The Alan Fletcher Band arrives on Saturday October 17 (7pm), and a performance by the internationally-renowned Royal Northern Sinfonia on Wednesday, November 25 (7.30pm).
The A Quite Quiet Special, featuring The Lake Poets and David Brewis among others, takes place on Wednesday, November 4, and is already sold out.
Community events include the Washington Vintage Fashion Market on Friday, September 18 (3.30pm to 7pm – with free admission); the Autumn Craft & Makers Fair on Saturday, September 26 (10am to 3pm with free admission), and Swing Band Dance Night with The Bright Street Band on Saturday, October 3 (6.30pm to 10pm).
The gallery will host highly-anticipated Spotlight: Washington Open Exhibition 2026 from Thursday, November 12 to Saturday, January 16, with an opening event on Thursday, November 12, 6pm–8pm. The exhibition celebrates North East artists responding to the theme of ‘Belonging.’
Halloween film highlights include The Lair of the White Worm complete with live musical accompaniment for an immersive horror experience. on Friday, October 30 (7pm), and Return to Oz on Saturday, October 31 (1pm).
The festive programme begins in December with Christmas Cabaret on Thursday, December 3 (7pm), followed by The Littlest Elf on Friday, December 11 (10.30pm and 1.30pm); The Jingle Generator Jam Show on Saturday, December 12 (11am and 2pm), and A Christmas Carol on Wednesday, December 16 and Thursday, December 17 (7.30pm).
The season concludes with Film and Fun: The Muppets Christmas Carol on Saturday, December 19 (1pm) when artist Rachel Hamer will help youngsters create their own muppet after watching the film.
For more information or to book tickets for any of the above shows or events, visit What’s On at Arts Centre Washington