Bridges Festival

www.bridgesfestival.com

FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR

mini model boat regatta

live music and street theatre

Swing bridge tours

The Urban games

Music boat trips

SUn 5th10am - 4pm

Sat 4th11am - 10pm

Sponsored by:

prOduced By neWcAstleGAtesheAd initiAtive

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The River Tyne, Gateshead Millennium Bridge, Tyne Bridge and attractions including The Sage Gateshead and BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art have all become icons of NewcastleGateshead and they are recognised across the globe as symbols of cultural renaissance, but also our history and heritage. We have one of the most beautiful city vistas in the world and Bridges Festival is all about celebrating this unique area of the River Tyne and NewcastleGateshead. Using the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games as a theme for this year’s festival, you can expect lots of sporting inspired events including; The Print Run, a chance to create a

print design whilst you run, dance or leap into the air, and the 7 Bridges Rowing Championships, a chance to re-live the famous River Tyne rowing races of the 19th century. There’s also a free family firework spectacular on Saturday 4 August that’s not to be missed. We hope you have a brilliant Bridges Festival weekend. Carol BellHead of Culture & Major Events NewcastleGateshead Initiative

Following last year’s hugely successful event, it’s my pleasure to welcome you to NewcastleGateshead Initiative’s Bridges Festival 2012 – two days of fun for all the family along our stunning Quayside – sponsored once again by the custodians of the river, the Port of Tyne, whose continued support has been invaluable in making this event happen.

huBBridges FESTIVAL huB PHOTO&Film

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PRODUCED By: FUNDED By: Sponsored By: MEDIA PARTNERS:

Don’t forget your camera!The Port of Tyne Photo & Film Reflect Competition is open! You’re invited to capture the North East as you see it, in film and pictures – so don’t forget your camera, smart phone or video camera when you visit the Bridges Festival and get snapping! Or try your hand at a 60 second film about the River and what it means to you. Visit www.portoftyne.co.uk/reflect for more information on how to enter.

The Festival HubAcross the festival weekend make sure to pop into our Festival Hub at the Guildhall. Our helpful Bridges team will be able to point you in the right direction and tell you what’s going on. They’ll even be able to suggest where to go for lunch or dinner (or a special Bridges Festival cocktail) or simply where to stand to get the best view of the Saturday night fireworks. Come and say hello!

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pOrt OF tyne

port of

tyne

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www.portoftyne.co.uk

POT - Advert (A5):Layout 1 24/5/12 17:35 Page 1

3Facebook NewcastleGateshead Twitter altweet_pet #BridgesFestival Web www.bridgesfestival.com

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As darkness falls on the Quayside, prepare to be amazed by a show that will have your eyes widening, your spine tingling and your head spinning. Produced by NewcastleGateshead Initiative in partnership with Walk the Plank, the internationally acclaimed outdoor performance and pyrotechnic specialists, Over and Out will use the Tyne Bridge and Gateshead Millennium Bridges and the famous waters of the River Tyne to transform the river into a magical theatre of pyrotechnics and neon-bright lighting effects. Performers will appear and disappear, carrying out dare-devil acts under cascades of silver rain which have you holding your breath in wonder and amazement, all set to music that reflects the mighty power of the river. Bring the whole family for this chance to see the river and bridges dazzle with light and colour. Check the website for viewing points.

Sat 4 auG: 9.30pmnewcaStle quaYSide

SPectacLesAturdAy‘Over And Out’

a lonely lighthouse, its light fading as the river traffic declines, is rejuvenated when three Keepers are reunited – the bridge Keeper abandons his road bridge, and the river Keeper arrives by fast boat as the last remaining lighthouse Keeper on the tyne summons his friends to help keep the lighthouse in commission. their combined efforts give the river a new ‘lease of light’ as well as signalling farewell to the london 2012 olympic Football.

eveningSPectacLe

don’t forget your camera!

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A celebration of an extraordinary animal and the myths that surround it... This multi-layered acoustic and visual performance is inspired by the extraordinary, yet little-understood, journey that Atlantic salmon make each year from Greenland to the River North Tyne.

Using the real sounds of their watery world and their determined ocean swim in a unique collaboration with stories created by Northumberland and Tyneside children, this is a brand-new creation that celebrates this most noble of fishes.

Sat 4 & Sun 5 auG: 7.30pmupStairS Guildhall

Where are the Wild Ones? SOUTH S’STORy

In a world where tower blocks are stone mountains and city walls are urban tapestries retelling epic fights, Michael keeps away from the warring tribes until a passerby helps him out of a tight situation. Instantly, he is pulled into the culture he has tried to escape. The city spirals out of control as battle lines are drawn and redrawn. In the quest for balance, loyalty, faith and friendships are tested, but will Michael succeed in ending the war?Featuring live music, and a surprise outdoor location.

Sat 4: 7.30pm & Sun 5: 7.30pm, 9pmSecret location meetinG at live theatreticKetS: Free but booKinG required. checK the webSite For detailS

Port of Tyne’s writer in residence Michael Chaplin will be giving an exclusive advance reading from his new book, ‘Tyne View – A Walk Around the Port of Tyne’, which will be published by New Writing North in September. See website for more information.

Sat 4: 7pmGuildhall

Knight WatchWatch

part of mega bites: Youth theatre FestivalBe the first to spot the next generation of rising comedians as this talented group of young performers do their first stand-up gigs. Sharp, edgy, laugh-out-loud jokes and observations that are all their very own hilarious work.

Sat 4: 4pm & 7.30pmlive theatre

standing UpneW BAtch aa

Why not check out one of the restaurants, cafés and bars around NewcastleGateshead Quayside before claiming your prime viewing point for the evening spectacle. They are joining in the celebrations and have developed special-priced themed meals and drinks menus. There are loads on offer; from a la carte menus to tasty nibbles, with plenty of family-friendly offers.

checK out the webSite For detailS www.bridGeSFeStival.com

Feelinghungry?hungry?

watch, listen, laugh, enjoy - then Stay and eat!

michaelchAplinTyNE VIEWreaDIng:reaDIng:

IN ASSOCIATION WITH LIVE THEATRECREATED BY KAFFE MATTHEWS AND LAURA HARRINGTON

FUEL PRESENTS INUA ELLAMS


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Be entertainedmega bites: live youth theatre festival presents …

Ten Tiny Tyneside PlaysDiscover unique and secret places inside Live Theatre in these 10 tiny plays written by five emerging playwrights.sat 4 & sun 5: 11am – 1pm & 2pm – 4pm, every 20 minuteslive theatre

Standing Up: A New BatchBe the first to spot the next generation of rising comedians as this talented group of young performers do their first stand-up gigs. Sharp, edgy, laugh-out-loud jokes and observations that are all their very own hilarious work. sat 4 & sun 5: 4pm & 7.30pmlive theatre

Shot by ShotAn Oscar-style screening of five films made at Quayside locations in an exciting 24-hour digital challenge. Each is inspired by the National Theatre’s production of ‘Travelling Light’, by Nicholas Wright, about the beginning of the movies, and is shot by, and stars Live Youth Theatre members. sun 5: 7.30pmlive theatre

Street Theatre And live musiclook out for unexpected characters who will charm, amuse and entertainingly confuse you throughout the weekend. you never know where they will appear, but be prepared to join in! around every corner you’ll be sure to hear live music from some of our best local musicians and brass bands.

Dunston Silver Band ConcertDunston Silver Band has a long and illustrious history of producing fine music and fine brass musicians. This concert will be held in the grounds of St. Mary’s Heritage Centre, so the musicians’ golden tones can sound out across the Quayside for all to enjoy. Limited seating will be provided. In the case of poor weather, the concert will be held indoors. sat 4: 2pm st. mary’s heritage Centre

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Take to the WaterOn-River ActivityKeep an eye on the river and get a different view of the Bridges by taking to the water with Newburn Activity Centre throughout the festival weekend. *Pending weather conditions.sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pm newcastle marina pontoons, newcastle Quayside and hms Calliope, gateshead Quays

Bridges Festival Water TaxiHitch a ride in our Water Taxi across the Tyne. sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pm newcastle marina pontoons/hms Calliope pontoon

River Escapes CruisesChill out on this one-hour cruise aboard the Coventina and enjoy seeing the famous city skyline and iconic riverside landmarks, including all seven bridges, from a fresh, watery angle. sat 4: board at 11.15am, 1.15pm, 2.45pmriver escapes pontoon, newcastle Quaysidebooking info: www.riverescapes.co.uk£6 adults, £4 Children

Shanty Boat Trips with The KeelersTake a cruise down the River Tyne with your raucous and rousing hosts, local shanty band The Keelers. Tickets cost £15.50 per person and can be booked at www.thesagegateshead.org sat 4 & sun 5: 1.30pm – 6pmriver escapes pontoon, newcastle Quayside

The Jazz Boat with West Jesmond Rhythm KingsTaken an evening cruise down the Tyne with hosts, West Jesmond Rhythm Kings, returning in time to see the evening fireworks spectacular from onboard the boat. Tickets cost £18 per person and can be booked at www.thesagegateshead.orgsat 4: 6.30pm – 10pmriver escapes pontoon, newcastle Quayside

HMS CALLIOPE PARADE GROUND HMS Calliope Parade Ground will be open throughout the weekend with a range of activities including knot tying and semaphore workshops.sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pm hms Calliope parade ground, gateshead Quays

Mini Model Boat RegattaGrab your boaters and stroll on down to NewcastleGateshead’s (mini) regatta. Dozens of model boats - stunning mini-versions of the real thing - will show off their paces in hotly contested races and demonstrations. Colourful bunting adds to the nautical atmosphere. sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pm hms Calliope, gateshead Quays

Mini Model Boat ExhibitionBoating clubs taking part in the Mini Model Boat Regatta will be exhibiting their own amazing replica boats in the Guildhall.sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pm guildhall

The 7 Bridges Rowing ChampionshipsShow off your rowing skills. Join either the Newcastle or Gateshead rowing team lined up beside our ‘River Map’, and be coached by one of the region’s famous 19th century rowers (time-travelled to the 21st century) with pep talks and tall tales. After the starting pistol cracks, listen to the watching crowds cheer on the rowing teams as they race up and down the ‘river’ to the winning line. After the official photographs and medal ceremonies, winners and losers recover over a mini-feast. sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pm swirle pavillion, newcastle Quayside

Water


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Be AmAzed~FlowListen to the waters of the Tyne as you’ve never heard them before. ~Flow, a sculptural 21st century waterwheel, uses the river’s tidal force to power electro-acoustic instruments. Beautifully hand-crafted, the musical instruments respond to the river’s ebb and flow to produce a music that echoes, enchants and enthrals. sat 4 & sun 5: 11am – 4pmriver escapes pontoon, newcastle Quayside

The Urban Games Turn up the tempo at these fast-paced and precision-testing events. Watch contestants scale buildings, vault walls and leap from heights in Parkour and Free Running demonstrations, or spin and twist on skateboards and BMX bikes. Have a go yourself in taster workshops. Street & Break Dance performances with talented, local Rappers and MCs, add to the urban vibe. sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pmst. ann’s Quay, newcastle Quayside

Join inFidgetPop in to this pop-up living room and learn that there is more to sitting on the sofa than lounging around. Award-winning artist Michael Pinsky has you chair hopping, exploring corners and picking up a bit of science along the way as you take part in his creative fun and games.sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pmbaltic square

The Sweet Smell of SuccessBio-Organism Substrate Industries (BOSI) will be bringing their success laboratory to the famously successful ‘Tynseside Toon’. At NewcastleGateshead Bridges Festival BOSI will endeavour to discover and harvest only the highest quality of success around the nation – and we have no doubt that NewcastleGateshead will register in the top 1% of Successful Cities. sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pmperformance square

The Print Run - Northern PrintMake a print design while you run - or skip, dance, hop, jump, bounce, leap into the air! Northern Print artists will help you design and make your own printing block, using the surrounding bridges and rivers for inspiration. Dip them in gorgeously coloured ink, attach them to your feet and ‘make your mark’ on a huge printing sheet. Giant balls and space-hoppers will add to the inky fun.sat 4: 12noon – 5pm south shore road, gateshead

The Stupendous SteamrollerA giant print will be created along the Quayside, using a stupendous vintage steamroller, Coquette Lass. There will be lino cutting workshops throughout Saturday in preparation for the printing on the Sunday. sat 4: 12noon – 5pm lino Cutting at the sage gatesheadsun 5: 10.30am – 3.30pm steam roller on south shore road

BALTIC Dream BridgesCome and make your dreams and hopes a reality on this huge canvas laid out on the Gateshead Millennium Bridge. BALTIC artists will help you to bring your aspirations to life in this creative and fun session using giant stickers.sat 4 & sun 5: 12noon – 4pmgateshead millennium bridge

Busy B’s by the BridgesHere’s the chance for all budding younger artists to help BALTIC’s professional artist’s design a brilliant new bridge to cross the river. sat 4 & sun 5: 2pm – 4pmQuay, level 2, baltiC Centre for Contemporary art

GET Hooked on FishingEver wondered how to cast a fly, how to spot a salmon, or how to hook your bait - but been afraid to ask? Come on down to the riverside and discover that fishing can be fun, exciting and easier than you think. Our super-friendly anglers will lure you in; before you know it, you’ll be hooked!sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pmCopthorne hotel, the Close, newcastle

In the ZoneEver wondered how far behind Usain Bolt you’d come in a race? Find out at this incredible hands-on exhibition. Explore the science of sport and get to grips with the giant sports testing kit. Find out how hard you can throw, how fast you can row and what’s going on inside your body to power you.sun 5: 10am – 4pmperformance square

Design and print

your very own

postcard from

NewcastleGateshead.

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DiscoverGateshead Football ClubFind out about the sporting heroes and triumphs of Gateshead’s own magnificent football club, ‘The Heed’. A story of passion and despair in equal measure. Celebrate the town’s rich football traditions: ‘Howay the Heed!’sat 4 & sun 5: 10am – 4pmst. mary’s heritage Centre, gateshead

Swing Bridge ToursFor two days only you have the rare chance to disappear inside the Port of Tyne’s Swing Bridge and see its gigantic workings. Opened in 1876, when it was the largest swing bridge in the world, it’s now a unique example of a hydraulic turning bridge. British engineering at its finest. Advance booking essential, please see website for details.sat 4: 12noon, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pmsun 5: 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, 3pmswing bridge

Victoria Tunnel Taster ToursGo deep below the streets of Newcastle in the Victoria Tunnel, a Victorian waggonway and WW2 air-raid shelter. Hear the chilling air-raid warning siren and the sound of aircraft overhead about to drop their deadly load. Experience what it was like to shelter from the enemy. To book: 0191 261 6596 or [email protected] sat 4: 2pm – 5pm, sun 5: 11am – 3pm (tours every hour)victoria tunnel, ouseburn£2

Quayside MarketHaggle for a bargain at Newcastle Quayside’s vibrant market, and stop for a bite to eat. sun 5: 10am – 4pm

Quayside Guided WalksHear fascinating tales of the Quayside and the iconic seven bridges that cross the River Tyne. Green Badge Guide, Gwen Keating will guide you through the centuries and you’ll find out about the amazing characters who made the river and the city so prosperous.sat 4 & sun 5: 10.45am and 2pmmeet at the sage gateshead, west door£4 (no booking required)

Gateshead Leisure Health WalksEnjoy a one mile circular route with spectacular views of the Quayside. The route includes crossing the River Tyne via the Swing Bridge and the Gateshead Millennium Bridge. sat 4 & sun 5: 11am, 1pm and 3pmdeparting from the entrance to baltiC Centre for Contemporary artno booking required

Bessie Surtees HouseThese 16th and 17th century merchants’ houses are open to the public on Saturday 4 August.sat 4: 10am – 4pmsandhill, Quayside

The Sage GatesheadThe Sage Gateshead will be providing a range of activity during Bridges Festival including live music, arts and crafts and a daily public building tour at 11am. See the website for more information.sat 4: 11am – 5pm & sun 5: 10am – 4pmthe sage gateshead


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Documents

Bridges Festival