Folklub Newcastle to boost North East folk scene for 2020

A new initiative has been launched to help create a melting pot in the North East for up and coming folk and roots talent.

Folklub Newcastle will take on the format of its successful counterpart in Scotland, Folklub Glasgow, presenting three to four gigs throughout the year and bringing in prestigious names from the UK folk scene.

Based at Newcastle’s Alphabetti Theatre, Folklub Newcastle is supported by Arts Council England and will offer audiences the opportunity to see top folk acts in an intimate setting, while also giving a platform to local talent.

The first event will be held on February 7 to 8 and will include BBC Young Folk Award winner Maddie Morris, North East trio Katie Doherty and the Navigators, BBC Young Folk finalists Janice Burns and Jon Doran and progressive folk band Pons Aelius.

It is the hope of Folklub founder Dave Gray that the new initiative will provide a welcoming entry point for a new audience to the folk scene.

He said: “The idea is that Folklub Newcastle will appeal to everybody. We’re making sure it will be really accessible and welcoming in a venue that’s really easy to get to in the centre of the city.

“As well as attracting some of the folk scene’s biggest touring artists, Folklub will provide a stage and opportunity for many aspiring folk musicians in the North East while also creating a family of folk musicians and support within the larger community of the traditional music scene.

“We want Folklub to be a brand people recognise and associate with quality, talent and good times.”