The shortlist for this year's North East Culture Awards has been announced, with winners in 14 categories to be revealed at the Globe Theatre in Stockton on November 26. The annual celebration of the region's artistic scene is being held at the venue for a second year.
Hundreds of nominations were submitted for the awards, which recognise writers, performers, events and the organisations that support the cultural sector. The quality of the entries led to an intense judging session for the panel drawn from arts and culture organisations across the region.
A Key Fixture in the Regional Calendar
The awards are now in their 19th year and have become a key fixture in the regional calendar. Last year's big winner was County Durham theatre group Ensemble '84, which took three awards for its collaboration with South African collective Isango Ensemble. Other winners last year included the Gosforth Civic Theatre, the Between the Tides Festival and actor Micky Cochrane.
Journal editor Graeme Whitfield, who chaired the judging session, said: "The Culture Awards are a great reminder of just how much amazing activity is happening in every corner of the North East. Every year I'm amazed at the talent and creativity shown in the entries, and this year's list is one of the most diverse we've ever had."
He added: "All that remains is to make sure we really celebrate how vibrant the region's artistic community is with a great night at the Globe."
Partners and This Year's Shortlist
The event is being held in partnership with Tees Valley Combined Authority, which is headline partner for a second year. Support has also come from Arts Council England, Durham University, Durham County Council, MIMA & Teesside University, Newcastle University and The Northern School of Art. Full details of the awards, including how to buy tickets and who will be performing live on the night, can be found at necultureawards.com.
The shortlist includes:
- Newcomer of the Year: Abby J. Walker, Celia Grace, Nayeema Ahmed, RADGE Magazine
- Heritage Award: Bottles, Coal & Iron: Tyne Derwent Way, Redhills Durham, The Stockton and Darlington Railway Trail of Discovery
- Best Arts & Education Partnership: BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art with North East Young Dads & Lads and Newcastle University, Middlesbrough Museums with Beech Grove Primary School, The Forge with The Dales School
- Special Award for Young Achievement: Ignite Bursary Recipients, South Tyneside Youth Service, Terox, The Saturday Club at MIMA for MOXIE
- The Arts Council England Award: 3.1: Southpaw Company, Dear Sunderland: Unfolding Theatre, S&DR200
- Visual Artist of the Year: Debbie Todd, Errol Theunissen, Suzie Devey, Will Hughes
- Best Event or Exhibition: The Mercury Prize Fringe, Monet: In the Presence of Nature, Redcar Kite Festival, The S&DR200 Anniversary Journey Recreation
- Writer of the Year: Louise Powell, Naomi Kelsey, Rachel Stockdale
- Off Stage Creative of the Year: Aaron Bowman, Adam Strickland, Lizzie Glazier
- Best Museum or Cultural Venue: Hopetown Darlington, The Auxiliary Project Space, Tyneside Cinema
- Performing Artist of the Year: Amelia Coburn, Rachel Stockdale, Scott Turnbull
- Best Arts & Business Partnership: ORE Catapult, Port of Blyth, Northumberland County Council and Walk the Plank: Festival of Energy, OUT North East with Pride Radio and Metrocentre, Stockton & Darlington Railway Heritage Partnership Board and Various Partners
- Performance of the Year: 3.1: Southpaw Company, Dear Sunderland: Unfolding Theatre, The Monocle: Rendez-Vous Dance
The Outstanding Contribution Award is set to be announced on the night.
