The Late Shows return this weekend
Tyneside's biggest after-hours culture crawl, The Late Shows, is back for its 17th edition this weekend on Friday 16 – Saturday 17 May.
Co-ordinated by North East Museums, (formerly Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums) and generously sponsored by Creative Central NCL and Stagecoach, The Late Shows will once again showcase the vibrant cultural scene across Newcastle and Gateshead. With 70+ amazing performance spaces, galleries, artists' studios, heritage sites, and museums, all throwing open their doors for two nights of events, activities and one-off experiences.
For the second consecutive year, Creative Central NCL is supporting exciting new artistic endeavours. This year's programme features three brand new artist commissions, happening in buildings which are opening to the public specially for the event: The Coach House, Arcadea CIO, and Cobalt Central NCL at the Grainger Market.
Vikki Leaney, Project Manager for Creative Central NCL and Economic Development Officer at Newcastle City Council said:
“We’re thrilled to be supporting new artistic initiatives for a second year at The Late Shows. Creative Central NCL is all about creating opportunities for artists and by partnering with The Late Shows it means their work can connect with the public in new and unexpected ways. This year’s commissioned artists, Debbie Todd, Imogen Cloët and GRAEME, are unique, thoughtful and fun. We can’t wait for everyone to experience them at The Late Shows on Saturday 17 May.”
Stagecoach has also come on board as a sponsor, meaning that the free bus service, including some new electric vehicles, will give visitors the option of a comfortable and environmentally friendly journey between the numerous venues.
Steve Walker, Managing Director at Stagecoach, said:
“We are privileged to support this initiative in the city and share our new electric vehicles with the guests attending via shuttle.
Bringing culture to the masses is a fantastic opportunity for the region and we're delighted to support the facilitation of this.”
Bill Griffiths, Chair of the Late Shows Steering Group and Head of Programmes & Collections at North East Museums, shared his excitement:
"The Late Shows continues to thrive thanks to the collaborative spirit of our cultural community. We're delighted to work with Creative Central NCL and all the participating venues to present another unforgettable weekend. The sheer variety and quality of what's on offer, from opportunities to explore the heritage of Newcastle and Gateshead to innovative artist-led projects, is a testament to the region's cultural energy. The 2025 edition promises to be another phenomenal cultural adventure. We encourage everyone to join us for a truly memorable weekend."
The Late Shows is a cultural tapas of activities for all ages and interests. Visitors can immerse themselves in fascinating heritage tours, captivating exhibitions, and hands-on craft activities. There are opportunities to witness live demonstrations, be captivated by enthralling performances, and enjoy unique spectacles.
The event will take place on Friday 16 May in the Ouseburn only and on Saturday 17 May it will be in venues across Gateshead and Central Newcastle.
Venues in the Ouseburn Valley and Newcastle are open from 6-10.30pm; Gateshead venues open from 6-10pm.
Getting around will be even easier this year as the free, accessible electric buses can be tracked live on the Stagecoach App or website.
