Live Theatre, Newcastle's 11-day Unearthed Festival will feature Royal Court Live led by Court Artistic Director David Byrne and playwright Ishy Din, masterclasses with Alistair McDowall and an online Q and A with Oscar winner Tarell Alvin McCraney (Moonlight).
Running from Tuesday 20 to Saturday 31 May, the festival will also feature readings, performances and scratch nights, the majority of which will be on sale for Live Theatre’s freelance rate of £6. There will also be a mid-career artist gathering, Fail Friday, led by theatre-maker Luca Rutherford and creative socials for parents who work in the arts.
Live Theatre Artistic Director Jack McNamara said, “the global level of artists we have gathered together for this festival is testament to how passionate people feel about nurturing the great artists of tomorrow. And Newcastle, and the wider North East, is rightfully being seen as the crucible of new work that it is. We hope that in these uncertain times, a festival like Unearthed can fight against the doom-mongering, reminding people that investing in new work is more necessary than ever.”
John Dawson, Artist Development Producer, added, “this festival is about more than performances; it is about growth, risk, and connection through creating space for artists to take risks, find their people and feel seen. That’s what drives us, championing voices that deserve to be heard, telling the untold stories rooted in our region and boldly building a national stage right here in the North East. We exist to give artists the freedom to create without limits and the recognition they deserve to rise, be seen and be celebrated.”