Popular open‑access rail operator Lumo has teamed up with Newcastle’s celebrated fringe venue Alphabetti Theatre — and drag performer Patti Boo Rae — to help ensure passengers enjoy a smooth and festive journey this holiday season.
Lumo is a proud supporter of Alphabetti Theatre. Patti Boo Rae, who headlined last year’s hit show Little Miss Christmas, is now bringing her festive flair to London, starring at Southwark Playhouse Borough from 10 December 2025 to 3 January 2026.
The rail operator also proudly links the North East of England with London, providing popular and affordable services on the East Coast Main Line using 100% electric trains. From December, it will be even easier for day-trippers to catch a matinee show in the capital before heading back to Newcastle, as Lumo will be operating a new later evening service back to the city. This is in addition to an extra early morning service to London, perfect for business or leisure trips. Lumo will also extend its route to and from Glasgow from December this year, boosting cross-border connectivity for Scotland.
Lumo has released a special video with top tips for a stress-free journey during the festive period. Patti Boo Rae, who dons a very special Lumo uniform, reminds customers that they can bring onboard one small bag or holdall and one medium suitcase. She also reveals the festive treats that customers can tuck into onboard this December, including delicious Christmas pudding popcorn and chocolate reindeer.
“Supporting our thriving arts and culture scene in the communities we serve is a key part of what we do at Lumo. I’m especially delighted that we’ve partnered with the Alphabetti and Patti to create fun and engaging content that offers some valuable advice for our customers, whilst also offering up extra festive cheer this December!”
Jen Clare, Service Delivery Director at Lumo
“Like any true cowgirl, I’m most at home on the road – or, in this case, on the rails! That’s why I’m thrilled to have Lumo’s support in carrying my show Little Miss Christmas down the line to London this season. I feel very proud to call myself an adopted Geordie, and I hope that with help from Lumo and Alphabetti Theatre, I can give London audiences a glimpse of Newcastle’s glittering cultural scene this Christmas. Happy holidays!”
Patti Boo Rae, the star of Little Miss Christmas
“We are so excited to be working with Lumo for Patti Boo Rae presents Little Miss Christmas, the first Alphabetti co-production to ever transfer to London. Lumo’s commitment to art and culture in the North East alongside their allyship with LGBTQIA+ make them the perfect partner to support this show, and they are ideally placed to safely transport our brilliant production team – wigs, glitter and all – from Newcastle down to London’s Southwark Playhouse this Christmas.”
Ed Cole, Artistic Director at Alphabetti Theatre
Lumo is proud to champion a range of inspirational individuals, exciting events and good causes in the areas it serves. The operator recently helped poppy seller Denis Scaife raise a record-breaking £38,000 for the appeal this year. Lumo is also serving up an exclusive opportunity for North East food and drink businesses to showcase their products in Westminster next year.
