Shows
Talking TeesdaleBrass comes to Barney; Connor Selby sings the blues; Time Together Teesdale, The Witham AGM; centre director Amy HughesThis week we report on The Witham arts centre's annual general meeting and chat to director Amy Hughes, who is keen to hear users' opinions of all aspect of the centre.We also chat to Suzanne Wallace, who outlines a project called Time Together Teesdale, which aims to tackle social isolation and loneliness.There are also details of an evening of free live music, part of the Durham Brass Festival and look forward to the release of blues musician Connor Selby's new album in August, which he will be touring in the autumn and which...2025-07-1123 min
Talking TeesdaleFolk-rock band Home Service, Martyn Radcliffe and Barnard Castle Writing Group, What's On, Paul Jones & Dave KellyIn this week's show, we chat to Graeme Taylor, founder member of the folk-rock band Home Service and Bob Fox, who has taken on vocal duties from the now retired John Tams, ahead of the band's show at The Witham Arts Centre on July 25.We also chat to budding author Martyn Radcliffe, a member of Barnard Castle Writing `Group, about being chosen for a prestigious creative writing masterclass.In what's on, we've details of the new National Theatre Live season and an acoustic show from Blues Band veterans Paul Jones and...2025-07-0443 min
Talking TeesdaleSt Mary's Community Choir, Barnard Castle Cricket Club Bands Day, What's On, folk duo The BreathWe're back after a short break for an entertaining chat with Annette Butters, musical director at St Mary's Parish Church ahead of the community choir's concert at The Witham Arts Centre, Barnard Castle on July 5.We also catch up with Barnard Castle Cricket Club president Stephen Brenkley ahead of the club's biggest annual fundraiser Bands Day to find out how things are going on and off the field.There's news of the Saturday Sessions of free live music, Durham Brass and a first visit to Barney in October of Manchester folk duo The Breath.2025-06-2734 min
Talking TeesdaleNo Added Sugar community choir; Teesdale Writers; Dire Straits stories with John Illsley; what's onThis week we chat to George Ford, musical director of the No Added Sugar community choir ahead of their show at The Witham arts centre on Saturday, June 28.We also find out more about Teesdale Writers, a recently established group of eclectic authors.There's also news of a show by Dire Straits bassist John Illsley, which is sure to be one of the highlights of the year, along with a what's-on update.2025-06-1332 min
Talking TeesdaleWitham Youth Theatre leader Ollie Smith talks The Tempest; Barnard Castle Mayor Paul Ing; what's onOllie Smith's passion for performance was fired when he was a member of the Turrets Youth Theatre group in Barnard Castle. He's back as The Witham's Youth Theatre leader and chats about the junior group's forthcoming performances of Shakespeare's The Tempest.We also talk to Barnard Castle mayor Paul Ing about the role of the town council and why you should consider filling one of the three vacant seats on the group.And we preview what's coming up at The Witham arts centre in the come couple of weeks.2025-06-0629 min
Talking TeesdaleLiz Bromley, chair of The Witham Trustees; Enterprise House network meetings; what's on; The Specials LtdThis week, we chat to Liz Bronley, chair of trustees at The Witham about her first year in the post.We also catch up with Lynn and Gail, from Enterprise House, discussing the monthly network meetings and much more.And there's a look at what's coming up at Barney's arts centre in the next couple of weeks, including a gig by top tribute band The Specials Ltd.2025-05-3027 min
Talking TeesdaleVolunteers week; all change at the Teesdale Mercury; Bon Jovi Forever; Royal Opera House; What's OnThis week, Stuart chats to Annalisa Ward, who is co-ordinating events for volunteers week, June 2-8.We also meet the new editor of the Teesdale Mercury, Alan Formby-Jackson and wish David Croom, who is leaving the paper after 45 years, all the best for his retirement.Plus, there's exciting news for fans of opera and ballet with a new season of screenings from the Royal Opera House and we look forward to top tribute band Bon Jovi Forever, who will be rocking out at The Witham on June 6.2025-05-2334 min
Talking TeesdaleRiders, biscuits, Barnard Castle Meet, Saturday Sessions, what's onThis week, we chat to Colin and John about the forthcoming Barnard Castle Meet festivities and Peter Dixon outlines the new-look weekend programme for the summer, Saturday Sessions.Plus a look at what's coming up in the next couple off weeks - everything from the Minecraft Movie to the Strictly Smoking' Big Band2025-05-1634 min
Talking TeesdaleFilmmaker Rob Yeadon, comedian Lauren Pattison, Edinburgh preview shows line-up, what's on, Steeleye SpanFilmmaker Rob Yeadon explains how a favour to a couple of ultra running mates ended up as a fully fledged documentary film.Comedian Lauren Pattison chats about her new tour show Big Girl Pants and Funny Way To Be Comedy promoter Peter Dixon unveils the line-up for this year's Edinburgh preview shows.Plus what's on and a couple of big announcements... 2025-05-0941 min
Talking TeesdaleMaking Memories, Tai Chi Qigong, What's on, the music of Sandy DennyThis week, we chat to Nicky Tulloch and Mike Bettison about the making Morris group at the TCR Hub and plans for a new session in Barnard Castle's Methodist Church Hall and we look at the increasing popularity of an exercise class that remains relatively unknown to many with instructor Andy Yeadon,Plus what's on at The Witham community arts centre, including a show dedicated to the music of the legendary Fairport Convention singer Sandy Denny.2025-05-0234 min
Talking TeesdaleLonnie Donegan - The Stories; Barnard Castle author Leah Hobson; What's On at The Witham Community Arts CentreWe're back! It's been a while but the new-look and re-branded Talking Teesdale podcast (previously In the Spotlight) is here!We're talking to Peter Donegan, son of the King of Skiffle Lonnie Donegan, who is bringing a show which celebrates his dad's life and music to The Witham on Friday May 16.We also catch up with Leah Hobson, who has published her second short fable, and find out what's coming up in the next few days at The Witham Arts Centre, in Barnard Castle.2025-04-2533 min
Talking TeesdaleConnor Burns, Mark Nelson, Count Arthur Strong, What's OnIn the final episode of series two of In the Spotlight, there's a double dose of comedy with guests Connor Burns and Mark Nelson, plus news of a new take on a Dickens classic from Count Arthur String and a look at what's coming up at The Witham in the next few days.2024-02-0924 min
Talking TeesdaleWhere is Mrs Christie – actor Liz Grand, Huey Morgan of Fun Lovin' Criminals, Eddie and the Hotrods, what's onActor Liz Grand joins us to chat about her play Where is Mrs Christie? which she brings to The Witnam stage on Thursday, February 8. Plus news of a solo show by Fun Lovin' Criminals' frontman Huey Morgan, a gig by Eddie and the Hotrods and a what's on round-up2024-02-0221 min
Talking TeesdaleJaney Godley, Martin Fry/ABC, what's onComedian Janey Godley chats to Stuart Laundy about her Not Dead Yet tour and much else ahead of her show at The Witham on Tuesday, February 6. Plus news of a solo show by Martin Fry, who as lead singer with the band ABC, was one of the biggest stars of the 80s and a look at what's coming up at The Witham2024-01-2625 min
Talking TeesdaleChris Difford solo tour and Squeeze 50th anniversary; what's onSqueeze legend Chris Difford chats to us ahead of his solo tour show at The Witham on Tuesday, January 30, plus news of a couple of familiar faces returning with family shows for the Easter holidays and what's on in the next few days.2024-01-1919 min
Talking TeesdaleSinger-songwriter Izzie Walsh, Joni Mitchell – This Flight Tonight and what's onWe're back for 2024 and our first guest is young Mancunian singer-songwriter Izzie Walsh who is performing at The Witham on Saturday, January 20. Plus news of a Joni Mitchell tribute show that is already proving popular and our regular what's on round-up2024-01-1223 min
Talking TeesdaleHello 2024 – a look at what's coming up... Chris Difford, Jive Aces and much, much moreWith 2024 just around the corning, Jane Woodward and Peter Dixon join host Stuart Laundy to look forward to what's heading to The Witham stages in the first couple of months of the new year.2023-12-2918 min
Talking TeesdaleChristmas at The Witham 2023 plus folk star Steve KnightleyEverything you need to know about what's going on at The Witham throughout December along with news of a gig from Show of Hands frontman Steve Knightley.2023-12-0122 min
Talking TeesdaleThe Furrow Collective, A Celebration of Simon and Garfunkel and the return of Morgan and WestAlasdair Roberts, of The Furrow Collective, chats about the group's new album and tour, which kicks off at The Witham on December 1. Plus news of more 2024 gigs including the return of A Celebration of Simon & Garfunkel and Morgan and West.2023-11-1022 min
Talking TeesdaleLighting up The Witham, Izzie Walsh tracks, Manfred Mann, What's OnThe Witham takes centre stage this week as we chat to those involved improving its visibility with some top notch illuminations. Plus music from Izzie Walsh and Manfred Mann, both of who are booked to play next year.2023-11-0322 min
Talking TeesdaleGuy Masterson, Ian M Bailey, Izzy Walsh, Jive Aces, What's OnOlivier-award winning actor Guy Masterson joins Stuart Laundy to talk about all things acting, including the solo show of A Christmas Carol which he is bringing to The Witham on November 24. Plus a new single from Ian Bailey, who will entertain us at a gig next year and news of new shows now on sales from Izzy Walsh and the Jive Aces2023-10-2733 min
Talking TeesdaleFolk star Lucy Ward (Ward, Knutur, Townes), Jon Boden and the Remnant Kings, What's OnLucy Ward explains how a singer from Derbyshire hooked up with performers from Iceland and Canada to record an album and embark on a UK tour. Plus news of a gig next year from Jim Boden and the Remnant Kings2023-10-2029 min
Talking TeesdaleActress Liz Grand on Enid Blyton; Quo Connection; Panto Time and what's onThis week we chat to actress Liz Grand ahead of her show Enid Blyton – Noddy, Big Ears and Lashings of Controversy. We look forward to panto season and there's news of a Status Quo tribute gig that's sure to delight rock fans. All this plus a look at what's coming up in the next few days.2023-10-1326 min
Talking TeesdaleCastle Players, Jo Caulfield, the Three Degrees, what's onWe catch up with the Castle Players busy rehearsing for their latest production, Our Town. Plus Jo Caulfield chats about her new tour show and news of a show by the Three Degrees next year.2023-10-0627 min
Talking TeesdaleActor Jonathan Goodwin, Sherlock Holmes, folk trio Salt House, what's onActor Jonathan Goodwin joins us ahead of his visit to The Witham in November to chat about Sherlock Holmes, his love of Victorian and Edwardian fiction and much else besides. There's music from Scottish folk trio Salt House, who are heading this way next March and a look at what's coming up2023-09-2930 min
Talking TeesdaleMarkus Birdman, Mark Harrison, what's onComedian Markus Birdman chats about his new tour show Platinum and how his experiences recovering from a stroke in 2021 form the basis of the show. Plus news of a gig from Mark Harrison in February next year and the regular what's on slot with Jane Woodward.2023-09-2226 min
Talking TeesdaleColin Hall, The Songs The Beatles Gave Away, Tommy Blaize (the vocalist of Strictly)A fascinating chat with Colin Hall about the show he is bringing to The Witham with his old friend Bob Harris about the songs Lennon and McCartney wrote for other artists during the 1960s. Plus news of a gig next year by Tommy BLaize, lead singer with the Strictly Come Dancing backing band and a look at what's coming up in the week ahead.2023-09-1528 min
Talking TeesdaleAutumn programme – comedy, Sinatra Raw and much, much moreWe're back after our summer break for season 2! This week's show is a look at the autumn programme. Peter Dixon, promoter with Funny Way To Be chats about what's coming up and the comedy front and Jane Woodward joins host Stuart Laundy to chat about forthcoming theatre, music and more.2023-09-0827 min
Talking TeesdaleBank holiday special – NE Street Band, Starlite & Campbell, Ian M BaileyWhat better to do on a pretty average August bank holiday weekend than share some new music from artists coming to The Witham?There's the NE Street Band's version of the Springsteen classic Born to Run; a track from the forthcoming new album from Starlite & Campbell and the lead track from Ian M Bailey's as yet untitled new album.Enjoy!2023-08-2714 min
Talking TeesdaleTannahill Weavers, Paul Young, What's OnIn the final show of the first season, special guest is Roy Gullane of The Tannahill Weavers, who are coming to The Witham on September 15. Plus news of a show by 80s pop superstar Paul Young and the usual what's on round-up.2023-08-0427 min
Talking TeesdaleEddie Lundon, China Crisis, Ajay Srivastav plus what's onAn entertaining chat with Eddie Lundon, founder member of China Crisis, on everything from being championed by John Peel and Janice Long to 80s retro tours, plus news of a gig next year from cross over blues artist Ajay Srivastav and our regular look at what's coming up.2023-07-2830 min
Talking TeesdaleTeesdale Business Awards, Kitchen Zoo Theatre, What's On, Abba SensationAn update on the Teesdale Business Awards as the deadline for nominations approaches. Plus, Kitchen Zoo, which is bringing family show The Tortoise and the Hare to The Witham on Tuesday, July 25. There's also what's on and news of a fabulous Abba tribute show coming in October.2023-07-2126 min
Talking TeesdaleEdinburgh Fringe comedy preview special – Peter Dixon, Anth Young, plus What's OnIt's laughter all the way this week with six comedians heading to Barnard Castle in the last week of July to preview shows they are taking to Edinburgh – promoter Peter Dixon outlines what's in stores and special guest is Anth Young. Plus we've the usual look at what's coming up including a tribute to ELO and a stage play featuring a former Dr Who.2023-07-1434 min
Talking TeesdaleStarlite and Campbell on their new album and forthcoming tour, The Manfred's, What's onSuzi Starlite and Simon Campbell chat about getting into shape for a UK tour, a "whirlwind musical romance" and there's an exclusive first play of a track from their new album Starlite.One which will be released in September.Plus news of tickets on sale for The Manfreds and what's coming up in the next few days.2023-07-0741 min
Talking TeesdaleActress Alison Skilbeck, Howerd's End, Hue and Cry, what's onThis week, we chat to actress Alison Skilbeck about her critically acclaimed play Mrs Roosevelt Flies to London... and playing the femme fatale Helen from Tadcaster in the Alan Plater TV classic The Beiderbecke Affair!Plus news of more live theatre and a gig featuring 80s chart-toppers Hue and Cry2023-06-3024 min
Talking TeesdaleFilm-maker Dean Midas, Rob Heron and the Teapad Orchestra, plus what's onCounty Durham film-maker Dean Midas is about to set the cameras rolling on his latest project – with The Witham used as a kay location. He joins us to chat about The Devil's Stone.Music comes from Rob Heron and the Teapad Orchestra ahead of their gig on July 6 and Jane Woodward will rundown the latest what's on news at The Witham.2023-06-2327 min
Talking TeesdaleAndrew Nicholson, Barnard Castle Band, 90s Disco, rock 'n' roll and what's onIn the final part of our short series looking at what makes The Witham a community arts centre, we chat to Andrew Nicholson about leading Barnard Castle Band and taking to the decks for fundraising discos. Plus news of a 50s rock 'n' roll night and other what's on updates.2023-06-1623 min
Talking TeesdalePlaywright Christina Castling, Turrets Youth Theatre, classic rock, what's onChristina Castling chats about her role with the Turrets Youth Theatre group and also about her new play Beyond Caring, which debuts later this year. There's news of a classic rock show and a look at what's coming up.2023-06-0927 min
Talking TeesdaleCommunity orchestra and choir, classic cars, the Boss and Carpenters ExperienceThe first in a short series explaining what makes The Witham a community arts centre and not simply a venue in which to perform. Guests include Annette Butters, musical director of the community orchestra and choir and Jonathan Wallis, chairman of Barnard Castle Christmas Lights Committee an organiser of August's classic car meet at Barnard Castle School. What's coming up includes SuRie, Henry Normal, The NE Street Band and The Carpenters Experience2023-06-0230 min
Talking TeesdaleSummer festival, a chat with singer-songwriter Bee Davison and make a date with Chris DiffordThis week we're looking forward to the Summer Festival of free performances in The Witham Garden. One of those taking part will be Barney-based singer-songwriter Bee Davison, who drops by to chat about her latest project. Meanwhile, Chris Difford, of Squeeze fame, will be bringing his Not Only But Also tour to the centre.2023-05-2632 min
Talking TeesdaleDr Robert – The Blow Monkeys; what's on with Jane Woodward; Eliza CarthyDr Robert joins us ahead of The Blow Monkeys' gig on Friday, June 23, talking politics and music, a busy 2023, Top of the Pops (just don't mention 'Sophistipop'). Plus, what's coming up and a cracking track from Eliza Carthy ahead of the show with her dad Martin.2023-05-1928 min
Talking TeesdaleJazz singer Claire Martin, a tribute to Gordon Lightfoot and what's coming upThis week we chat to singer Claire Martin about her forthcoming visit to the region; a project very close to her heart and mentoring the next generation of young performers. Plus Starlite and Campbell share their latest release – tribute to the late great Gordon Lightfoot.2023-05-1231 min
Talking TeesdaleSuRie, Arielle and the week aheadWe've a Eurovision theme to this week's show as the UK's 2018 contestant SuRie joins us to reminisce, chat about her new album Building a Woman and look forward to her gig at The Witham on Tuesday, June 6, which is part of her Cover/Me UK tour. Details: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/surie-cover-me/Plus, new music from singer guitarist Arielle, who is supporting When Rivers Meet on May 19, and a look at the coming week's events.2023-05-0528 min
Talking TeesdaleSinger-songwriter Ian Bailey; competition time; summer programmeMusic and chat with singer-songwriter Ian Bailey, who will play an acoustic set on Saturday, May 13. Details: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/an-acoustic-evening-with-singer-songwriter-ian-m-bailey/Plus: competition time – win tickets to our screening of Living (12a). Send your answers to info@thewitham.org.uk.Summer programme launch. Comedy promoter Peter Dixon and marketing officer Jane Woodward chat about what coming up in the next five months.00.00 Intro00.36 Ian Bailey18.15 Cinema ticket competition19.00 Peter Dixon - summer programme comedy highlights24.40 Jane Woodward - summer programme28.00 Beverley Re...2023-04-2834 min
Talking TeesdaleAmy Hughes – new centre director, The WithamThe Witham's new director chats to Stuart Laundy about her first impressions of the arts centre since taking up the post.2023-04-2110 min
Talking TeesdaleSinger songwriter Sarah McQuaidMusic and chat with Cornwall-based Sarah ahead of her show at The Witham on Thursday, May 4. Topics include her recent European dates, recording in the local church... and the joy of fresh laundry on tour! Details of Sarah's show at The Witham: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/sarah-mcquaid/2023-04-1430 min
Talking TeesdaleAndy Yeadon – Tai Chi Quigong ClassesThis episode features Andy Yeadon chatting about the benefits of alternative and holistic therapies ahead of his latest term of Quigong sessions. For details, call 07967 531905 or email mail@andrewyeadon.co.uk or to https://thewitham.org.uk/workshop/tai-chi-quigong-classes/2023-04-0713 min
Talking TeesdaleIn the Spotlight Extra – When Rivers Meet and Starlite & CampbellWe've got some cracking live music coming up and two acts who are playing at The Witham in the coming weeks and months have released new singles. Have a listen to When Rivers Meet and Starlite & Campbell. For ticket details go to https://thewitham.org.uk2023-04-0309 min
Talking TeesdaleKathryn Roberts and Sean LakemanKathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman chat about the release of their new album Almost a Sunset ahead of their show at The Witham on Tuesday, April 25. Full details and tickets: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/kathryn-roberts-and-sean-lakeman/2023-03-3027 min
Talking TeesdaleMorgan and West – Unbelievable ScienceStuart Laundy chats to Morgan and West ahead of their Unbelievable Science show at The Witham on Friday, April 7. Ticket details: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/funny-way-to-be-comedy-morgan-west-unbelievable-science/2023-03-2416 min