A new stage show celebrating North East music will debut in Newcastle this spring, featuring local opera stars and a documentary on coal mining history.
Newcastle: A fresh stage show is coming to town! It’s called Songs of the North East, and it’s all about celebrating local music. This show is set to kick off its tour in the spring, and it’s sure to resonate with Geordies.
Opera stars Graeme Danby and Valerie Reid will perform. They’ll take us on a musical journey through songs from the 1800s to today. The tour starts in Northumberland, but the highlight will be at Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle.
On April 6, the show will be paired with a documentary called In the Veins. This film dives into the region’s coal mining history, showcasing over a century of footage. It’s a great way to connect music with local heritage.
Danby, who hails from Consett, is excited about this homecoming. He’s performed worldwide but loves bringing these local songs to life. He and Valerie see this show as a true labor of love.
They’ll perform beautiful ballads like Waters of Tyne and fun songs like The Ghost of St Mary’s. The show will also feature traditional favorites, including Joe Wilson’s Keep Your Feet Still Geordie Hinny.
Each song has a story. For instance, one song tells of two laborers sharing a bed while working away from home. Another song recounts the journey of Jeremiah Dixon, who helped map the Mason-Dixon line.
There’s also a cheeky tale about a woman’s fling with a sailor. The show promises to be both entertaining and informative, thanks to writers Tom Kelly and Graeme Thompson.
Kelly has created plays that celebrate local culture, while Thompson brings his musical expertise. They’re thrilled to showcase the rich musical history of the North East.
The lineup includes classics like Blow the Wind Southerly and songs from Sting’s musical The Last Ship. The tour will cover ten dates, starting in Blyth on April 3 and wrapping up in Durham on May 24.
Tickets for the Tyneside Cinema event are already on sale for £20. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy local music and history all in one go!
