North East Stars Unite to Raise £30,000 for Young People in the Performing Arts

An all-star cast of North East performers came together at Newcastle Theatre Royal this weekend (Sun 28 Jun 2026) to raise an incredible £30,000 for two charities supporting the next generation of musicians and performers across the region.

Of the money raised, £15,000 will be donated to Newcastle Theatre Royal Trust to support its creative development programme, and the remaining £15,000 will be donated to North East Music Opportunities CIC (NEMO), whose talented young musicians also performed alongside the professional cast during the show.

Now in its second year, Something in the Water, presented by Joe McElderry and powered by funk-soul supergroup Groovetrain, celebrates the remarkable talent, humour and creativity of the North East in a unique cabaret-style revue telling the story of North East talent past, present and future packed with unforgettable performances.

The event featured a stellar line-up including Danny Adams, Si King, Jason Cook, Michael Marouli, Adam Strong, Christina Bianco and Carly Burns, alongside special guests and a live band, Groovetrain. Audiences were also treated to a surprise appearance from North East music legend Jimmy Nail, who joined Joe McElderry on stage for moving performances of Old Man's Boots and chart-topping hit Ain't No Doubt, bringing the Theatre Royal audience to its feet.

For several members of the company, the event was particularly special, marking their first time performing on the Newcastle Theatre Royal stage in front of a home audience, despite enjoying successful careers in the West End, on television and internationally.

Marianne Locatori, Chief Executive of Newcastle Theatre Royal, said: "The money raised will help us to continue and expand our important work here at Newcastle Theatre Royal, creating opportunities for children and young people to discover their creativity, build confidence and develop their talents. We know the next generation of performers is growing up here in the North East, and we're proud to play an active part in helping them realise their potential."

Joe McElderry said: "Something in the Water is a celebration of everything I love about the North East. We've got an incredible wealth of talent here, and it was so special to bring together friends and fellow performers for two unforgettable shows in support of such worthwhile causes.

The atmosphere in the theatre was electric and knowing we've raised £30,000 to help inspire the next generation makes it even more rewarding. Thank you to all of the performers who generously donated their time and to everyone who bought a ticket and supported us."

Funds raised through Something in the Water will support creative opportunities for children and young people across the North East, helping to remove barriers to participation in music and the performing arts while inspiring future generations to follow their ambitions.