Unsung heroes and a leap into the future with Teesside's joyous arts scene

With the council facing a £15m deficit and popular venues closing there's a tricky future for creatives to navigate

First published 13 March 2024

When you think of Teesside, what initially pops into your mind? Could it be the friendly lilt of the locals’ accent? The industrial heritage of the area? Or perhaps personal memories that tie you to the ebbs and flows of this valley.

I associate Teesside with a joyous, DIY culture scene that I’ve enjoyed soaking up since I wa…