Martin Kemp, the Spandau Ballet star turned EastEnders actor, will switch on the Christmas lights at the Metrocentre in Gateshead on Sunday, November 15. The announcement comes as the shopping centre prepares for a weekend of festive entertainment.
An 80s Legend Takes the Stage
Kemp, known for his music career with Spandau Ballet and his role as a soap bad boy, has been performing DJ sets across the UK in recent years, drawing crowds to his 80s party nights. At the Metrocentre, he will not only perform the switch-on but also play a live DJ set of retro and seasonal hits to get the party spirit going.
The switch-on will conclude a busy few days for the centre, with its Winter Weekend starting from 3pm on Friday, November 13. That event will feature HMV Presents Thomas Nicholas, the alternative rock and pop punk group fronted by actor and musician Thomas Nicholas, best known for his role as Kevin Myers in the American Pie film series.
Weekend of Festive Fun
Supporting the band on stage in Exhibition Square will be the North East's own Mitch Laddie and Matt Fairley, with signings to follow in the HMV store in Lower Blue Mall. The following Saturday will bring a Christmas parade from 11am, featuring seasonal icons from movie characters to fairytale favourites and pop-culture royalty, along with Santa and his festive helpers.
After the parade, the costumed characters will remain for meet-and-greet sessions and selfie requests as they roam the centre. A large 3m x 5m snowball pit will also be set up in Town Square for youngsters to enjoy.
Additional Appearances and Main Event
Alongside the switch-on on November 14, there will be special appearances from famous animated characters and big screen characters, ahead of the main event from 3pm. The Metrocentre's decorations are already in place, but the official lights switch-on is scheduled for Sunday, November 15.
