Old Stories, New Songs with Howay The Lasses

Turn historic stories into a brand new song with Howay The Lasses

If these walls could speak ...or even sing ! With it's striking tudor style frontage and distinct wooden beams Bessie Surtees House is one of the most recognisable historic buildings on Newcastle's famous Quayside. And yet, not many people have been inside to have a look around and engage with its colourful and intriguing history. From housing many of Newcastle's mayors and noblemen, surviving deadly fires and military upheaval to being the key backdrop for a convention busting love story there are so many stories to tell about this special place. Today's workshop with local band Howay The Lasses will introduce us to some engaging aspects of the history of Bessie Surtees House. Then, working with band members Annie, Bronnie, Gareth and Katie we'll look at how to create music and lyric out of historical fact and story to make something new to celebrate an iconic North East building.

Perform the new song with the band

Once our song is written those that would like to will have a chance to perform it for members of the public, family and friends at a special open day at the property on Sunday 26th October. More details about how people can sign up to come along for that will be announced shortly. In the meantime please book in for the songwriting and we look forward to welcoming you to Bessie Surtees House on Sunday 12th October for this free creative workshop with Howay The Lasses.

Important Information

• Everyone is welcome at the workshop though we would advise it is most suitable for adults and children ages 12 and above.
• All children attending must be accompanied by their parent or guardian who will be solely responsible for them at all times.
• A note on accessing the site: the three public rooms on the 1st floor are accessed via a flight of stairs from the ground floor. There are also uneven floors on the first floor. There is no lift in the building.
• Tea/coffee/light refreshments are provided. Lunch is not provided so please bring a packed lunch or source along the Quayside
• All workshop materials - pens, paper, post it notes will be provided
• Parking is not available at the building. If you are unable to use public transport to get to Bessie Surtees House then a mix of free and paid parking is available along the Quayside.

This project is delivered and made possible by grant funding from English Heritage Community Connections and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Host or Publisher Semibreve CIC