Due to phenomenal demand for tickets, organisers of Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience have announced an additional weekend opening date for its Newcastle debut.

Originally scheduled to open on Sunday 12 July, the internationally acclaimed exhibition will now welcome visitors from Saturday 11 July, giving North East audiences an extra opportunity to experience the immersive attraction during its opening weekend.

The announcement comes as excitement continues to build ahead of the exhibition’s arrival at Utilita Arena Newcastle next month, when a specialist production team will arrive in town to begin transforming the Utilita Arena into a breathtaking world of colour, light and sound as Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience prepares to open its doors.

 The internationally acclaimed exhibition will see more than 300 of Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces brought to life through cutting-edge projection technology, music and storytelling, creating a spectacular immersive experience unlike anything previously seen in the region.

Behind the scenes, the transformation is a major logistical undertaking. Teams from producers Annerin Productions and Paquin Entertainment will spend days converting the arena floor into a 10,000 sq ft immersive gallery, installing projection equipment, sound systems and the specially designed exhibition environment that has already captivated more than seven million visitors worldwide.

With anticipation building across the North East, thousands of tickets have already been sold, with organisers encouraging visitors to book early to secure their preferred dates and times.

From swirling stars and golden sunflowers to the vibrant streets of Arles, visitors will be able to step inside some of the artist’s most celebrated works, including The Starry Night, Sunflowers and Café Terrace at Night, as they come alive around them.

Anna Parry, UK Business Development at Annerin Productions, said: 

“The response from people across the North East has been incredible. Demand has been so strong that we’ve added an extra Saturday opening date, giving even more visitors the chance to experience Beyond Van Gogh during its opening weekend. With just one month to go, excitement is really building and we can’t wait to welcome audiences through the doors.”

Jim Mawdsley, Principal Advisor Events and Culture at Newcastle City Council, said:

“It’s fantastic to see Beyond Van Gogh coming to Newcastle. This is exactly the kind of high-quality, large-scale cultural experience that helps attract visitors to the city and alongside the amazing range of cultural venues and experiences in the city gives people a compelling reason to spend time here.

“The combination of art, technology and storytelling has captivated millions of people around the world and we’re proud to be hosting it in Newcastle this summer. It promises to be a memorable experience for audiences of all ages.”

Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, runs at Utilita Arena Newcastle from Saturday 11 July until Sunday 9 August and is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors from across the North East and beyond.  Tickets available HERE.

A North Shields artist whose distinctive murals and paintings have become instantly recognisable across the region has been commissioned to create a bespoke artwork celebrating one of North Shields’ most historic waterfront buildings.

Union Quay Dental, based in the landmark Richard Irvin Building on North Shields Fish Quay, unveiled the specially commissioned painting by local artist Anthony Downie as part of the practice’s major refurbishment project.

Downie, 38, who was last year selected as one of the artists for the North Shields 800 mural trail, created the piece in his signature style – vibrant North East street scenes painted in bold blue, orange and yellow tones inspired by the light and atmosphere of the region.

The finished 75cm x 75cm acrylic-on-ply painting now takes pride of place in the newly refurbished entrance hall at Union Quay Dental, further connecting the practice to the local community and heritage surrounding it.

The commission comes during a busy period for the artist. From May 26th, Anthony’s work will feature in a major installation at The Bridge Gallery above Tynemouth Metro Station in partnership with Globe Gallery, North Shields. North Tyneside Art Studio and Globe Gallery work in partnership to programme The Bridge. 

Anthony and fellow artist Talula Lines are creating four large-scale 8ft x 8ft panels exploring similar themes from different perspectives, with the new works set to be displayed on both sides of the walkway.

Anthony, who is based in North Shields and now works full-time as an artist, said his work often captures the nostalgia and character of northern streets and neighbourhoods.

“People tell me the paintings feel familiar because these kinds of scenes exist all across the North,” he said.

“They’re inspired by real places, but I change elements within them – moving windows, adding doorways or altering details – so there’s a slightly dreamlike quality to them too.”

Speaking about the Union Quay Dental commission, he added: “It was great to be asked by Jarlath and Jamie to paint the old Richard Irvin Building, an excellent piece of architecture that has watched over the Fish Quay for so long and is now home to Union Quay Dental.

“The Fish Quay has been quite a big part of my life, from exploring many of the abandoned and unused buildings there during my teenage years – including the Richard Irvin Building – to captaining the darts team at the Low Lights Tavern about 15 years ago, to now exploring it more conventionally with my children, playing on the beaches and eating fish and chips.”

Anthony’s creative journey began studying photography at Newcastle College before working in street art, set design and events. After returning to the North East in 2017, he worked with local art collective Nowt Special on theatre set projects for venues including Northern Stage, Live Theatre and The Tyne Theatre and Opera House.

He began developing his now distinctive painting style in 2022 after experimenting with the effect of bright sunlight and blue shadows on North East back lanes and street scenes.

Earlier this year he was commissioned by Elevation Walls to create one of the large-scale murals for the North Shields 800 celebrations after proactively approaching organisers with his own concept artwork.

“I saw they were planning murals in North Shields, so I mocked one of my paintings up onto a gable end and sent it over before applications had even opened,” he said. “I think being a bit cheeky paid off.”

Jamie Dury, co-owner and principal dentist at Union Quay Dental, said supporting local artists and celebrating the area’s identity was an important part of the refurbishment project.

“We wanted the refurbishment to reflect the character and heritage of the Fish Quay and support somebody creating work inspired by the local community,” he said. “Anthony’s artwork felt like the perfect fit for the building and the area we’re proud to be part of.”

Jarlath McAteer – co-owner and principal dentist at Union Quay Dental added: “There’s something special about seeing a historic building like the Richard Irvin Building reinterpreted through the eyes of a local artist who has his own history and memories connected to the Fish Quay. Anthony’s work brings warmth, character and a real sense of place to the practice.”

Anthony’s artwork has previously been exhibited at Republic Gallery in Blyth and is currently on display at The Biscuit Factory in Newcastle.

The commission reflects growing collaboration between independent businesses and the region’s creative sector as North Shields continues to build its reputation as one of the North East’s most vibrant cultural and coastal communities.

Anthony Downie with the commissioned painting – photo c. Zoe Robertson

Anthony’s website:  https://www.adillustration.co.uk/

Anthony’s Instagram:  @anthonydownie.art

https://www.unionquaydental.co.uk/

This summer, musicians can take centre stage at Buchanan Galleries as the Glasgow shopping centre launches a ‘Busk Stop’ – allowing young buskers to perform inside the centre at a dedicated busking area for the very first time.

Launching on Monday 30^th June, Buchanan Galleries will be shining a spotlight on the region’s young artists and performers, where they will be given the chance to perform in a safe space to a walk-by audience.

Buchanan Galleries’ ‘Busk Stop’ has been specially created for young local singers and musicians to perform live at the centre, bringing a vibrant atmosphere to guests. 11-year-old Glasgow singer, Rachel Ronnie will officially launch the ‘Busk Stop’ with the first performance on Monday 30^th June at 12pm – 1pm.

The ‘Busk Stop’ will be located by the flower wall at Buchanan Galleries and will serve as a centrepiece for aspiring young artists to engage with visitors, entertain, and showcase their talent during the summer holidays. Following the launch event, performances will be on a rotation schedule to ensure fresh entertainment for all to enjoy.

The centre is calling for young artists across the region to register to perform at its ‘Busk Stop’ free of charge. Performers will be able to reserve hour slots throughout the summer holidays and is available to both emerging and seasoned young artists. Musicians interested in performing at the ‘Busk Stop’ at Buchanan Galleries can register their interest via Buchanan Galleries’ website: https://www.buchanangalleries.co.uk/en/articles-listing-page/busk-stop

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said: “We’re incredibly excited to launch our ‘Busk Stop’ with Rachel Ronnie’s performance. At just 11 years old, Rachel represents the talent, passion, and creativity we want to spotlight throughout the summer.

“Glasgow already has a buzzing busking scene, and we’re proud to be able to provide a platform that supports the next generation of artists. The launch of our ‘Busk Stop’ not only provides a new layer of entertainment for our guests but also gives young local artists a platform to perform, develop their confidence, and share their talents, in a safe, welcoming and vibrant space, come rain or shine.”

The ‘Busk Stop’ will be available at Buchanan Galleries from Monday 30^th June. For more information about the ‘Busk Stop’ at Buchanan Galleries or to apply for a busking spot, please visit: https://www.buchanangalleries.co.uk/

Composer and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland student, Rachel Sullivan, is introducing visitors at Buchanan Galleries and Glaswegians alike to the world of opera through an original, innovative, and contemporary performance that was written, produced, and directed by Sullivan.

Bertha is a 60-minute, two-act reimagining of misunderstood character, Bertha Mason – ‘the mad woman in the attic – from the classic novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë. Set in 1808, the opera explores Bertha’s emotional turmoil and cognitive deterioration during a time when women with mental ill health or disabilities were often dismissed and mistreated. Through dramatic interactions and fragmented memories, Bertha’s story unfolds: one of survival, self-discovery, and the power of female connection.

The performance offers a powerful perspective on the original novel, with a haunting original score, chamber orchestra of twelve musicians, and a cast of four singers set against a backdrop of immersive staging.

Those who are new to opera, or seasoned theatregoers are invited to a series of scheduled showings of Bertha at Buchanan Galleries on Friday 20^th, Saturday 21^st, and Sunday 22^nd June, where they can expect an evening of suspense and intrigue in an unexpected, yet accessible setting.

The ‘shopera’ is located on the Buchanan Street entrance of Buchanan Galleries, opposite Rolex. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Clyde Climate Forest charity, an organisation working towards planting 18 million trees around Glasgow over the next ten years.

Rachel Sullivan said, “Having the opportunity to produce and direct this work has been a real privilege and joy. It’s my aim for Bertha to reach those who may never have experienced a production in a traditional opera venue, and change the common perception that opera is for the select few. Buchanan Galleries has provided the perfect alternative venue, in Glasgow’s most central shopping centre, for which I am particularly grateful.

“I’m looking forward to welcoming the centre’s guests to come and experience Bertha, whether they are seasoned fans, or being introduced to the art for the first time.”

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said “We’re thrilled to be hosting Scotland’s first ever ‘shopera’ right here at Buchanan Galleries. This is such a creative and original way to bring the arts to the high street and make opera more accessible to new audiences.

“Rachel and the team have created something really special with Bertha, and we’re proud to support local talent and community-focused performances like this. We hope our guests enjoy the opportunity to experience opera in a whole new way right in the heart of the city.”

Bertha is Sullivan’s first opera and largest-scale work to date and has been financially supported by a finalist’s prize from the Write Start Competition, facilitated by RCS Alumnus Sam Heughan. The costumes, set design, and props have been sustainably sourced or loaned by suppliers from in and around Glasgow.

Rachel added, “I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the incredibly talented cast, orchestra, and to my co-director, Hannah Siddiqui, without whom the production would not have been possible, and the outstanding musical director, Chloe Lu Ye. To have been blessed with such a dedicated and enthusiastic cast and crew is an experience is something I will never forget.”

Tickets for Bertha are on sale now and can be purchased via Eventbrite for the suggested donation of £5. Funds generated through ticket sales will support Clyde Climate Forest charity, with additional collection buckets available during the performances.

For more information about Buchanan Galleries, visit https://www.buchanangalleries.co.uk/en. For more information about Bertha, visit https://www.instagram.com/bertha_shopera/

Edinburgh

Big Kid Circus (February 7–16) – Experience the magic of the circus at Gyle Shopping Centre Car Park, where a brand-new show promises thrills and entertainment for the whole family.

An Evening With: James Naughtie (February 10) – Literary and journalism enthusiasts can join renowned broadcaster James Naughtie for an insightful discussion at The Royal Lyceum Edinburgh, hosted by Artistic Director David Greig.

Board Game Fika! (February 10–14) – Gather friends and family for an afternoon of board games and laughter at IKEA Edinburgh, where fun meets Scandinavian hospitality.

Breakfast with Bjorn (February 10–12) – Little ones can start their day in a unique way by meeting BJÖRN Bear at IKEA Edinburgh’s customer restaurant.

Artists’ Bookmarket (February 15–16) – This celebration of book art culture at the Fruitmarket Gallery features stalls from artists, publishers, and designers, offering a treasure trove of creative works for book lovers.

Glasgow

Brennan Reece: Live (February 16) – Enjoy a night of laughter as comedian Brennan Reece brings his brand-new show to The Stand Comedy Club.

Broadway in the Bar (February 16) – Show tunes lovers will delight in a night of musical theatre magic at Oran Mor, featuring a cast of professional performers bringing Broadway’s best to Glasgow.

BAaD Tributes: Taylor Vs Miley (February 16) – Music fans can experience the ultimate showdown between Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus hits at Barras Art and Design Centre.

Circa Waves (February 16) – Indie music fans won’t want to miss Circa Waves performing live at Barrowland, promising an electrifying night of music.

BILK – Essex, Drugs and Rock and Roll Tour (February 16) – The rising British band takes the stage at SWG3, bringing their energetic sound to Glasgow.

Fort William

Fort William Mountain Festival (February 13–16) – Adventure lovers will revel in this multi-day celebration of mountain culture. Featuring film screenings, talks, and outdoor activities like the Family Ride bike session and ‘Discover Your Family Adventure’ event, this festival is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

A Week of Cultural Delights

From artistic book fairs and thrilling circus performances to comedy shows and live music, Scotland’s arts and culture scene is alive with excitement. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, thought-provoking discussions, or energetic performances, this week’s lineup has something for every taste.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich cultural landscape—grab your tickets and enjoy a week filled with creativity and entertainment!

This Saturday (15 February 2025), the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) will be joined on stage at Town Hall Birmingham by Black Voices. Together they will explore the origins and historic context of Dvořák’s 9th Symphony, hoping to offer insight and further understanding into the music and poetry that inspired the symphony’s creation.

In between each movement of the symphony, conducted by CBSO Music Director Kazuki Yamada, Linton Stephens will be guiding audiences through the significance of African American Spirituals in the context of the work, with performances from the incredible female a cappella quintet, Black Voices.

Tom Spurgin, Creative Director – Learning & Engagement, CBSO comments: “We’re always excited to explore collaborations that bring people closer to incredible music. Saturday’s concert follows immediately after our Friday performance of the ‘New World’ symphony at Symphony Hall, offering the audience deeper insight into the origins of this well-known piece, and bringing to the fore the amazing work of Harry Burleigh. Audiences are in for a real treat, hearing the Dvořák and spirituals performed by the CBSO and the extraordinary Black Voices.”

Composed in 1893 while Anton Dvořák was the director of the National Conservatory of Music in America, Symphony 9 ‘From the New World’ has become one of the most performed symphonies around the world. In 1973 the music featured in the Hovis TV advert directed by Ridley Scott. This weekend the CBSO revisit the inspiration behind one of the world’s most cherished orchestral symphonies. 

The concert has been generously supported by the Dunard Fund.

For more information and tickets for Saturday’s concert, visit https://cbso.co.uk/events/cbso-explores-the-new-world-symphony

Single: Gold Reloaded

Release: 21/02/25

F.F.O: Chromatics, Imogen Heap, FKA Twigs

ZOE.LEELA takes listeners on an immersive journey where raw emotion and sonic richness collide on her new single Gold Reloaded, releasing 21/02/25.

The genre-bending single whisks listeners away on a journey unlike anything they’ve been on before. Gold Reloaded is an ethereal track that plays in the space between dance and electronic, atmospheric and emotional. 

The cinematic track conjures images of slow-motion drives through neon-lit city street – an evocative blend of yearning, despair, romance, hope, and beauty. Perfect for moments of urban solitude or vibrant nights, Gold Reloaded captures the pulse of modern life, offering a seductive and emotional escape that resonates long after the last note fades. 

“My music is imagery. It’s the soundtrack to living, feeling, and dreaming in the midst of a complex world.”– ZOE.LEELA

Influenced by her time across the rich New York and Berlin scenes, ZOE.LEELA’s music distils the worlds of fashion and out of the box human experiences into song. The result is a sound quite unlike any other that can still find a connection with people from all walks of life. 

Audiences can listen to Gold Reloaded across all platforms 21/02/25. 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoeleelamusic?igsh=Ynhzb3dwaGg4dHJt&utm_source=qr 

Website: http://zoeleela.com/ 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6NK73u3cheVshDxtglOfeh?si=GtSWY9r5RB6fWfJrmFYpiQ 

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@zoeleela?si=DWg8etlVdmb7Gjyn 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zoe.leela?_t=ZN-8thHNAEEYPG&_r=1 

Lead Single: Borghini Nights

Release: 20/1/25

Label: Ancestral Entertainment

F.F.O: Prodigy, 50 Cent, Wu Tang Clan

Italy’s finest car meets London’s strongest lyricism on Borghini Nights – the new single from Feature Debonaire releasing 20/1/25 

The single takes inspiration from the likes of the old school US rap greats and sees Feature Debonaire take his place as the leader of the new school. The track is dropping alongside its accompanying music video that pairs raw visuals of Feature’s London with cold looks at the Lamborghini that inspired the song.

Borghini Nights comes from Feature Debonarie’s love for Lamborghini, and his admiration of Italian poets.  The supercar is Debonaire’s avenue to merge freedom, power, and status with literature and wordplay that has dominated the waves of history.

The London setting for the Borghini Nights is no coincidence with Feature Debonaire’s city being the centre of a grand empire. As Debonaire puts it “I see the world as a big empire. Every dot needs to be connected for it to flourish. Every individual is part of this empire and the aim to help everyone discover the greatness in themselves – the end result needs to be unity; one hand washes the other.”. 

Borghini Nights will be available across all platforms now. 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Featuredebonaire/# 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rk7dkfYs4fNaBahaGbrVY 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@featuredebonaire1431 

https://bit.ly/4jlMYcU 

Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/msb-470681949/borgini-nights-vocal-mix-xvr/s-OzcuTucT5bx?si=6cf24f86ee3746bf826615865badfb10&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing