Narc. Magazine Online
Reliably informed
On 17th-18th October, WOW – Women of the World takes place in the North East for the very first time
WOW – Women of the World brings its first ever North East Festival to Gala Durham on Friday 17th – Saturday 18th October, offering a packed day of free events, performances and conversations exploring what it means to be a woman or non-binary person in the region today. The festival will close with a headline appearance from broadcaster and former Lioness Jill Scott MBE, who reflects on her journey from Sunderland school pitches to international football and TV screens.
Festival pass holders can expect a wide-ranging programme, from panels on maternal healthcare, race tensions and community resilience, to workshops on financial empowerment and creative expression. Highlights include a photographic exhibition by Sophie Piper, a screening of Rupture co-created with women from HMP Low Newton, and performances from artists including Amelia Coburn, Beccy Owen and Tees Women Poets. Plus, don’t miss two exciting evening events: An Evening with Ashley James and Keeping Sane(ish) with Athena Kugblenu and Jordan Gray (both BSL Interpreted and Live Captioned).
The day also features dance workshops, poetry pop-ups, Pride banner-making, and interactive sessions for children under ten. Outside the venue, Curious Caravan and SAWDUST! will lead artist-led activities and storytelling, while new city tours will uncover women’s histories across Durham.
WOW North East is part of a wider regional programme, with additional events in Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Hexham. Free festival passes are available now via the WOW website.
Jude Kelly, Founder Director of The WOW Foundation adds, “In WOW’s 15th anniversary year, I’m delighted WOW is finding a new home in the North East, in partnership with S&DR200. It’s a region close to my heart, full of creativity and innovation. I am thrilled this year to also be welcoming Jill Scott, Ashley James, and Emma Dabiri to our wonderful lineup of academics, activists, and artists in celebrating this region. When I founded WOW in 2010, I had huge ambitions for raising the voices of women across the world, and 15 years on, I’m so proud that more than 150 WOW Festivals and events have taken place in 71 locations across six continents, creating change and joy in so many communities and for so many people.
