The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will officially open Sunderland’s new arts hub The Fire Station.

Prince William and his wife Kate will be in the city on Wednesday, February 21 to open The Fire Station, which houses our new studios, a drama studio, a heritage centre and a popular bistro, the Engine Room.

During their visit, the Duke and Duchess will be given a tour of the building by MAC Trust Chair Paul Callaghan, CBE, and Helen Green, Director of The Fire Station.

The Royal couple will watch a Dance Jam workshop from ourselves in The Fire Station’s first-floor studios and a local class take part in a Live Theatre Live Tales story writing session.

They will also watch a Bollywood dancers performance, meet a group of young people involved in the Little Inventors project and talk to some of the musicians from The Bunker and Pop Recs.

They will also unveil a plaque marking the opening of The Fire Station.

Paul Callaghan, Chair of the MAC Trust said: “The Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture Trust is delighted to welcome The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to The Fire Station.

“The renovation of this iconic building is a symbol of the city’s growing cultural vibrancy and to have this recognised by such important guests is a real honour and a privilege. I’m sure The Duke and Duchess will be impressed by the talent and enthusiasm of the young performers they will meet while they are here.”

Helen Green, added: “This is a superb opportunity to celebrate the fantastic work being done by children and young people in arts and culture in Sunderland.

“The Fire Station is very proud to have been chosen to showcase so many projects such as Little Inventors, Curious Connections and Live Tales, just a few of the original and innovative groups being led by our cultural organisations as well as in schools and youth clubs across the city.”