ONE of the best-loved fairy tales is getting a whole new look this Christmas – to coincide with one of the region’s favourite pantomimes.
Sleeping Beauty is taking to the stage at the Sunderland Empire this festive season, bringing to life the classic story of the princess who can only be woken by true love’s kiss.
And lovers of the show are now in for an extra treat – as windows in businesses across the city will also showcase some of the greatest Sleeping Beauty moments.
As part of its Christmas activities, Sunderland’s BIDs – which include the City Centre and the Seafront BIDs – are creating Once Upon A Winter’s Trail, with unique illustrations from the story painted on shop windows.
The BID has commissioned Danielle Stephenson of Del’s Doodles – who specialises in window art – to create 10 pictures around the city.
Already signed up are The Glass Onion and Flowers by Jennifer in Blandford Street, Crave at High Street West, Koji, Harrison and Brown furniture store, Angelo’s restaurant at Sunniside, the Beacon of Light and the Empire Theatre itself.
A map is being produced to help people follow the trail, with each window having its own QR code which can then be scanned and will take people to a page at Hits Radio, where they can enter their details to be in with a chance to win a prize.
The overall winner will receive the ultimate Sunderland Experience gift, including tickets for the pantomime, afternoon tea at The Grand Hotel and vouchers for bowling and golf, along with a Sunderland Gift Gard.
The trail will launch on 13 November and copies of the map will be available from the participating businesses and online at www.spenditinsunderland.co.uk
Roberta Redecke, Head of Business Services at Sunderland’s BIDs, believes the trail will be extremely popular.
“We’re delighted to be teaming up with the Sunderland Empire for this very special trail,” she said.
“Sleeping Beauty is such an iconic story and we’re thrilled to be able to bring some of it’s magic to the city centre.”
Sleeping Beauty opens at the Sunderland Empire on 12 December and runs until 4 January, starring Call The Midwife’s Laura Main, Channel 5 Milkshake! Presenter David Ribi and West End star, Jordan Lee Davies.
Marie Nixon, Theatre Director at the Empire said:
“It’s truly special that so many local businesses are supporting our pantomime this festive season by having their windows painted with a Sleeping Beauty theme as part of Sunderland BID’s window trail.
“Our city centre is known for its collaborative approach and for businesses supporting each other, and we’re really excited to be involved. We encourage local families to take part and visit all the incredible businesses for a chance to win tickets to this year’s pantomime.”
For the full Christmas programme visit www.spenditinsunderland.co.uk