Preview: The Takeover at South Shields Customs House

Talented Youngsters Wanted

for Venue Takeover

The Takeover

South Shields Customs House

Starting Monday 25th May

Young people have been given the opportunity to take over a North East arts centre. The Customs House in South Shields is handing over the reins to give young people a chance to take part in a range of arts activities. The Takeover will see events and workshops happening in the cinema, theatre, and other spaces around the building including a new gallery space.

Customs House Executive Director Ray Spencer said: “The Takeover is a new idea for The Customs House – we’re filling every space in the venue with an event or activity for young people during May Half-Term.

“We work with young people throughout the year so The Takeover is a chance for these participants to celebrate the great work that they do, but it’s also an opportunity for new people to come along to see what we have on offer for them. So if you’re interested in drama, dance, film, music or visual arts, get involved.”

Throughout the week there is a breakdance jam, live gig, drama residency, a one-day film challenge, a song-writing session, a showcase of short films and an opportunity for a budding artist to have their debut solo exhibition.

Cultural Development Officer Daniel Clifford added: “The Takeover isn’t just a great opportunity for young people to get involved in arts activities and projects, audiences will have the chance to see fantastic new work by our talented emerging artists.

“There’s so much going on – there’s something for everyone.  Staff here at The Customs House and our sister venue The CustomSpace get to see this talent on a regular basis but this is the best opportunity members of the public have to witness it for themselves.”

The Takeover begins on Monday, May 25 with an outdoor breakdance jam at the Harton Quays amphitheatre for dancers aged under 18 with an MC and experienced judges from 5pm. There is a £4.00 entry fee for dancers, who need to register in advance by email to Connor: customspace@customshouse.co.uk. It’s free for audiences to watch.

The fun continues with Live at The Customs House on the Monday evening; an emerging music night in The Customs House’s Main House, with support spots still available and an exciting headline act to be announced. Acts can apply to perform by emailing Jordan on jordancustomspace@customshouse.co.uk.

Young actors, aged 14 to 19 who would like to take part in a drama residency with the critically-acclaimed theatre company The Letter Room from Tuesday 26 to Friday 29 May, should apply by emailing fiona@customshouse.co.uk before Friday, May 15.

Budding film directors and actors, aged between 13 and 19, will love the buzz and excitement of the One Day Film Challenge on Tuesday, May 26 from 10am until 5pm. The films made will be screened at the Custom Reels Short Film Showcase at 7pm on Thursday, May 28.

On Thursday, May 28 The Railway Club’s Martin Trollope will host a day of song-writing, lyric-writing, melodies and instrumentation. Beginners are welcome.

And one lucky artist, aged 25 or under, will see their first solo exhibition of work in The Stairwell Gallery; the exhibition will be on display for four weeks and previewed during The Takeover. This exhibition will launch The Stairwell Gallery, which will be dedicated to the work of younger artists. Applications will also be considered for future exhibitions in the space. Apply to dclifford@customshouse.co.uk with a brief outline of your artistic vision for the exhibition with two images which best represent your work by Friday, May 15.

For more information on The Takeover, contact Daniel on dclifford@customshouse.co.uk or 0191 427 8193 or visit www.customshouse.co.uk.