Music, film, unique sound experiences and live chats with entertainment and podcast stars are all on the menu at a one-off celebration in Sunderland. Sunniside Nights will put the focus on the area of the city which is becoming a hotbed of creativity and the home of a whole range of independent artists and creators.
On Friday 21 March venues around Sunniside will be opening their doors for a packed programme of live performances with something for everyone. Sunniside Nights has been brought together by Futureheads musician, Ross Millard, who has combined artists and performers to create a night which will showcase not only a range of talent but also what Sunniside has to offer.
The talent
Pop Recs at High Street West will be hosting a live gig by Du Blonde, the alter ego of Newcastle-born creative Beth Jean Houghton, who recently released her critically acclaimed album, Sniff More Gritty.
Fresh from a sell out UK tour, the night will be a must for modern alt-rock fans. She will be supported by Sunderland-based Lottie Willis, who has already been earmarked as one to watch.
After the gig the Pop Rec’s sister venue, Pop Flix, will host a late night screening of the 1979 cult movie, The Warriors, which centres around a New York street gang.
Diego’s at Sunniside will be the home for A Celebration of Athletico Mince, an evening with podcaster, comedian and presenter Andy Dawson who has been making the popular podcast for almost 10 years with fellow comic, Bob Mortimer.
Frankie and the Heartstrings singer Frankie Francis will be ‘in conversation’ with legendary songwriter, Kane Gang member, Martin Brammer.
An Ivor Novello nominated songwriter, Brammer has sold over 25m records in a career lasting 40 years as an artist, producer and songwriter. This event will be a rare chance to hear from Martin and get some insight into his music industry dealings, tour stories and advice on how to make it as a successful songwriter, producer and music manager.
The location for this event is to be confirmed.
Additional activities
Later that evening guests have the chance to experience the unique work of sound innovators and improvisers, Water Lattice and Shelly Knotts, thanks to a collaboration with Sunderland-based experimental music festival, Boundaries.
Those who prefer more traditional music should head for The Bridge Hotel Vaults where singer, flautist and folk instrumentalist Sarah Hayes will be leading an evening session of traditional music, accompanied by musician Dave Gray.
Other events planned for the evening include a specially curated show by Breeze Creatives at their Athenaeum Gallery.
Comment by Ross Millard, Futureheads musician
“Sunniside Nights is a chance to bring some high-quality, eclectic programming to an area that has long been the place for artists and creative people in Sunderland,” said Ross.
“We want it to be a coming-together moment, focusing on artists and working with the venues who are already striving all day every day to make the city a more interesting place. Bringing it all together in one celebratory night will be great fun.”
Sunnyside nights could be here to stay
Sunniside Nights has been commissioned by Sunderland BID and Sunderland City Council, supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) following a successful application made by Sunderland BID, which led to an award of £202,253 to create the Sunniside Activation programme, designed to build pride in place and a sense of community.
Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID, said the event was a great opportunity to show what Sunniside has to offer.
“Sunniside is a fantastic area of the city and has become a natural home for numerous creatives and independent businesses,” she said.
“Sunniside Nights is going to be a fantastic way of not only visiting these amazing venues but also of being able to witness some great performances from a really eclectic mix of performers.
“We hope this will become an annual event in the city.”
Her words were echoed by Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council.
“The Sunniside area has become the heart for creatives in Sunderland. Sunniside Nights is an excellent opportunity to show off this creativity, bringing together local businesses and the community for a night full of entertainment,” she said.
“Seeing everyone come together for this event is brilliant and I hope the people of Sunderland show their support so we can have more events like this across the city.”
Additional Event information
The Event will start on Friday March 21.
Although all of the events are free, tickets will be required in some instances. Information is available here.
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