Something in the Water, the North East talent showcase, returns to Newcastle Theatre Royal on Sunday, June 28, following a highly successful debut in 2025 that raised nearly £30,000 for charity. Co-creators Joe McElderry and Michael Lavery have assembled an even more eclectic line-up this year, promising a spectacular show.
Debut Success and Charitable Impact
The inaugural event in 2025 earned rave reviews and sold-out performances, with both matinee and evening shows packed. It raised £28,000, split between Theatre Royal Youth (TRY) and North East Music Opportunities (NEMO) CIC. TRY supports young people aged 16-20 in developing performance skills, while NEMO helps youth access music and performing arts opportunities across the region.
Star-Studded Line-Up for 2026
This year's line-up features a mix of local and national talent. Groovetrain returns as the house band. Highlights include Adam Strong, fresh from leading the Rocky Horror tour; Carly Burns, recently wowing US audiences in Bat out of Hell; and a reunion of Joe McElderry and Christina Bianco, who starred together in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Also performing are Geordie Drag Race legend Michael Marouli, soul singer TMJ, and Hairy Bikers' Si King. Comedians Jason Cook and impressionist Georgia McIntyre will provide laughs, while Danny Adams returns with a new routine with Joe.
Eclectic Representation of North East Talent
Michael Lavery told ChronicleLive: "'Oh there must be something in the water up there' is something many North East performers hear from people when you travel outside the region, so the title is very apt. And this year we feel like the line-up is much more eclectic and wider representative of what the North East is all about." Joe McElderry added: "Anyone who's coming is in for a full on show of top class entertainment. I wasn't sure we'd be able to top last year but I was stood in the rehearsal room last weekend and I was like 'this is incredible.'" Joe will perform his new single "Love Me Out Loud" on Sunday.
Continued Support for Local Talent
Several performers on stage have benefited from the funds raised last year, underscoring the event's commitment to nurturing North East talent. The show runs on Sunday, June 28, with tickets already sold out.
