A NIGHT of music, dancing and a glimpse of life at sea in the days of press gangs and smugglers, is set to take place at Sunderland’s newest venue.
Seventeen Nineteen is a cultural, heritage and events space housed in the historic Holy Trinity Church, which dates to the 1700s, in the city’s East end.
And on 9 June it will be transformed into a 19th century sailing vessel, with steamer trunks, whiskey barrels and fishing nets, for the flashmob musical show, Old Time Sailors.
A crew of 17 musicians, led by Captain Nicholas Moffat, will take the audience on a trip back through time, with a lively mix of singing, sailing trivia and dancing, with music and lyrics provided, so everyone can join in.
A mobile fish and chip shop will also be on hand for those keen to tuck into interval refreshments.
The evening will be especially atmospheric as the church is at the centre of what was once one of the largest seafaring ports in the UK.
“In fact, I doubt there’s a more suitable setting for a night of 18th and 19th century sailor songs anywhere in the region,” said Centre Manager Tracey Mienie.
“This is the oldest part of the city and although the church recently underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment, its links to the Sunderland seafaring community are very evident.”
And outside, in the graveyard, is a monument to one of Wearside’s most famous sons, young Royal Navy sailor Jack Crawford, who famously nailed his ship’s colours to the mast to inspire the fleet during the battle of Camperdown.
Old Time Sailors will take place from 7pm to 10pm and limited early bird tickets are available priced at between £17.50 and £22.20.
To book, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/myevent?eid=310593111357 and more information about Seventeen Nineteen – which is cared for by national charity, Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) – can be found at https://www.visitchurches.org.uk/1719/