ROCKET MAN will be touching down in South Shields this summer for an out of this world performance.
On 6 July, the Summer Parade will return with a Space Fantasy theme as part of the South Tyneside Festival, which is organised by South Tyneside Council and sponsored by The Sea Hotel.
And at the end of the route, music fans can hear Sir Elton John’s biggest hits when Gary Setterfield takes to the stage during the free afternoon of entertainment at Bents Park.
Regarded as the UK’s number one tribute to the Your Song singer, Gary found fame on the TV show Stars in Their Eyes and has since performed as Elton for audiences around Europe.
The Sea Hotel is part of the High Street Hospitality chain of hotels and managing director, Phill Brumwell, is delighted to be on board with the event.
“The South Tyneside Festival is something that everyone in the local community can get involved with and we are thrilled to be supporting it this year,” said Phill.
“The town really comes alive when the parade takes to the streets and, as always, it is certain to be a fantastic day out for the whole family.”
Also performing throughout the afternoon are Britain’s Got Talent favourites Boogie Storm, aerial show Heliosphere, friendly extra-terrestrials Are We Alien, Titan the Robot, Bedlam Oz’s dancing slinkies and the Wonky Olympics assault course.
Councillor Alan Kerr, Lead Member for Culture and Leisure at South Tyneside Council, believes Gary will be a great addition.
“Elton John’s songs are loved by people of all ages and Gary is a very talented performer who I am sure will put on a brilliant show,” said Cllr Kerr.
“There are a wide range of acts booked for Bents Park this year and I am looking forward to seeing them all entertain the crowd next month.”
Those heading to the park will also be able to try temporary glitter tattoos, get their faces painted and visit the beer tent where they can enjoy music from Sound Divide, a bar and take part in space-themed children’s craft activities.
The Summer Parade is just one event in a packed programme planned over the coming months, including live music from local bands and the popular children’s fun fest.
And music fans will be able to see a whole host of top stars for free next month when the Sunday concert series returns, with headline performances from Marti Pellow, The Lightning Seeds and Phats and Small, Midge Ure and Nick Heyward, and Gabrielle.
The South Tyneside Festival is also supported by BBC Newcastle 95.4FM, Port of Tyne, Colmans Seafood Temple and South Tyneside College.
For more information and full listings visit: www.southtynesidefestival.co.uk or follow the social media accounts on Twitter @stynesideevents and Facebook /southtynesideevents.
For more information about The Sea Hotel, visit www.seahotel.co.uk