With Christmas just round the corner there's plenty on the bill at one regional venue to help get the family festive fun into full swing. MARISSA CARRUTHERS takes a look at what's on at The Sage Gateshead this Christmas.

IF the Christmas lights and festive tunes blasting out of shops aren't enough to get you in the spirit then there are a few Christmas classics that definitely will.

The Sage Gateshead has a bill bursting with festive family fun, boasting something for everyone.

What Christmas would be complete without a screening of the classic The Snowman?

And The Sage is once again welcoming Christmas with a screening of this timeless classic.

Presented by Northern Sinfonia, Raymond Brigg's story for kids has established itself as part of the Christmas tradition at The Sage Gateshead.

The animated film can be seen on the big screen on December 23, and Christmas Eve with Northern Sinfonia in accompaniment.

But you don't have to wait until then to get into the swing of Christmas.

Tonight, acclaimed singer-songwriter Thea Gilmore brings a sprinkling of seasonal songs to her mix of new songs and Christmas covers.

On Tuesday, The Albion Christmas Show takes centre stage when Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band), Simon Care (Edward II) and Ashley Hutchings take the audience on a guided tour through the Christmas traditions of Great Britain.

If a trip to see The Snowman on Wednesday or Christmas Eve doesn't take your fancy, then why not try The Folkworks Christmas Ceilidh.

The Hedgehog's Skin, with callers David and Joey Oliver, will skilfully guide you through great dances, making this the ideal pre-Christmas party whether you're a seasoned ceilidher or new to the fun.

Post-Christmas craziness comes in the form of Geordie's Winter Almanac Radio Roadshow on Sunday, December 27, when Jez Lowe takes the audience back to the radio shows of the 50s.

An alternative telling of The Nutcracker lands at The Sage on Monday, December 28.



Watch the world-famous ballet, featuring New York Ballet School, on the big screen and listen to Northern Sinfonia, led by conductor Clive Davis, play along.

Kids can join in with the New Year's Eve action with Katie Doherty's Winter Parade on December 31.



Honey-voiced singer Katie introduces her musical friends Mr Snuffles, the dragon who can't breathe fire and the Frog Princess.

Follow their adventures, sing favourite songs and even help write Katie a new one.

Kids are invited to come dressed up as their favourite story characters.

When the concert finishes, it'll be New Year in Japan, and there will be activities in the concourse to celebrate.

The Chinese State Circus will be landing at the iconic venue on Thursday, January 7, and Saturday, January 9 for a bit of new year fun.



Featuring the amazing Shaolin Warriors in a breathtaking fusion of acrobatics, musicianship, martial arts and dazzling circus skills, this is an unmissable event.

For more details and to book tickets, phone 443 4661 or visit www.thesagegateshead.org