THE Customs House Arts Centre sits proudly on the banks of the River Tyne as an ambassador for all that is fantastic about living, working and growing up in South Tyneside.

Proudly serving the community for almost 17 years, the venue attracts more than 250,000 visitors per year offering an eclectic mix of arts and education for all and boasts unique theatre, gallery, cinema and conference facilities. The theatre and cinema programme is varied and affordable with prices for all starting from as little as £3.50.

All of the art exhibitions, whether by regional, national or international artists are free of charge and The Green Room Bar/Bistro, the venue’s catering provision, is now open for meals seven days a week.

The Customs House Cultural Development team work with schools and community groups throughout South Tyneside and deliver many national initiatives including Arts Award and Arts Mark Training.

Conference and celebrations continue to grow with individual function rooms and outdoor spaces that can cater for up to 500 people.

The last 12 months has seen the charitable trust gain NPO status with the Arts Council and extend their roots into the community in an exciting partnership with South Tyneside Council.

They are now responsible for the Central Library Theatre and The Jarrow Hall Tea Room, Bede’s World, and provide catering and programming to the venues.

Since September, The Customs House has taken over the day-to-day management of The Cave Youth Initiative Centre in Tyne Dock and will be introducing a wide range of activities and get-involved groups in the coming weeks and months.

But as the end of 2011 draws near the venue is gearing up for its award-winning festive frolics.

The centrepiece is, of course, the family pantomime Aladdin and as usual all the madness, mayhem and chaos will once again be lead by panto legends Ray Spencer and Bob Stott who play Tommy Wishy-Washy and Widow Dotty Twanky.

It is the duo’s 36th year in pantomime – a career which started with the Arabian tale.

Customs House executive director, Ray Spencer MBE, said: “Once again the core of the cast for ‘the little panto with the big heart’ is all South Tyneside-based performers.

“It is the same for the young cast for our under-7s show Santa’s Naughty Elf and the Magic Sleigh Ride which will take place in the Central Library Theatre. We believe there is so much undiscovered talent in South Tyneside and it is our aim to give as much of it a chance to shine as we possibly can.

“Both shows have helped us extend our links with local businesses with Colman’s Fish and Chips, Port of Tyne, BT South Tyneside, GO Solar all agreeing to sponsor the show. We have also secured sponsorship from Hays Travel, Northumbrian Water and Potts Printers.

“They have continued to show tremendous loyalty to The Customs House and have invested in South Tyneside’s premier arts venue which in turn allows us to deliver fantastic arts projects to the young folk of Shields.”

Over the next six months the Mill Dam venue will host performances by opera star Lesley Garrett, British theatre icon Simon Callow, music star Dennis Locorriere, a one-week run of The Awkward Squad before it transfers to London and just months after a homecoming show by Sarah Millican, another Shields comedian – Chris Ramsey – will tread the boards in his biggest show to date.

Mr Spencer said: “Even in these tough economic times we remain committed to bringing the very best performers to your Customs House.”

For details about The Customs House visit www.customshouse.co.uk