Loading...

WOW – Women of the World is coming to the North East for the very first time this October with a free festival featuring speakers including former Lioness Jill Scott, workshops from The Consent Collective and Urban Kaos, and a closing performance by the North East’s very own magnetic singer songwriter Amelia Coburn.
Taking place in partnership with S&DR200, everyone is welcome to celebrate the incredible women, girls and non-binary people of the North East. Your free festival day pass will give you access to explore a packed line-up of events across Gala Durham and the nearby Clayport Library covering everything from politics to pop culture, sex to sport, activism to art. We’ll travel back 200 years to spotlight women’s roles in the birth of the railway and look ahead to the future of tech and innovation in a dynamic panel on women in STEM. Because when it comes to building what’s next, locally and globally, women and girls are at the centre of the conversation.
As well as panel discussions you can join mindfulness painting or discover poetry that grabs you by the heart. Laugh and celebrate with Gritty and Glorious local theatre performances and dance with confidence with Urban Kaos. Get creative with floral painting, move your body in Bollywood and dance classes, hula hoop to your heart’s content, or belt out a tune in a mass sing-along. With theatre, big ideas, a game show and space for honest conversations, there’s something here for everyone. View the full line-up via the drop downs at the bottom of this listing.
Whether you’re here to listen, learn, connect, or take action, WOW is for everyone, so join us at WOW North East as we make history, honour the past, and shape an equal future together.
Tickets are free, but booking is essential. All events in the main auditorium will be BSL Interpreted and Live Captioned.
Find out more about WOW North East Festival here and the other events taking place across the region this October.
Festival line-up
All times shown in GMT
WOW North East: Opening Session
10:00am
–
10:45am
Join Jude Kelly as she opens the festival with special guests, celebrating the North East in all its glory
WOW North East: Opening Session
10:00am – 10:45amJoin Jude Kelly as she opens the festival with special guests, celebrating the North East in all its glory
Join WOW Founder Director Jude Kelly as she opens the festival with special guests, celebrating the North East in all its glory from the proud history of the railways to the stories of local people driving things forward. It’s about where we’ve come from, where we’re going, and everything that makes this place special.
Speakers include: WOW Founder Jude Kelly CBE; Girls, Theys and Slays Choir; Dame Irene Hays; S&DR200 Festival Director Niccy Halifax
Auditorium
- BSL signed
- Captions
Under 10's Feminist Corner
10:00am
–
1:00pm
Find out what you can do to fight for equality through fun mini-activities in our drop-in creative space
Under 10's Feminist Corner
10:00am – 1:00pmFind out what you can do to fight for equality through fun mini-activities in our drop-in creative space
Feminism isn’t just for teenagers and grown ups! Find out what you can do to fight for equality through fun mini-activities in our drop-in creative space. If you’re a budding young equality champion who believes we should all have the same opportunities whatever our gender, these mini-workshops are perfect for you!
WOW Under 10’s Feminist Corners are an important part of WOW festivals across the globe. Through mini-drop in activities, we’ll explore gender equality, and share tips on how to start your very own campaign!
Join other kids your age to explore what equality means and discover what life is like for girls across the world. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
This space is open to Under 10’s of all genders – drop in at any time!
Led By: Cat Foley WOW
Children’s Library, Clayport Library
Please note – as this is a drop in event for young people, attendees do not need a festival wristband to access this event.
What Now, What Next?
11:00am
–
11:45am
Hear from the leaders who are doing the work as we ask what comes next for our communities?
What Now, What Next?
11:00am – 11:45amHear from the leaders who are doing the work as we ask what comes next for our communities?
From political backlash to media outrage, equity is in the crosshairs and some communities are feeling left behind. In this urgent panel we ask how we can lead with fairness when fairness is being contested and what do our communities really need to thrive and feel supported. Hear from the leaders who are doing the work as we ask what comes next for our communities?
Speakers include: West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin; Charlie Kemp, Lola McEvoy and Menisha Gela
Auditorium
- BSL signed
- Captions
Dusty Deste photo exhibition curated by Sophie Piper
11:00am
–
11:50am
Discover hidden visual histories of women’s work in Sunderland and the importance of Dusty Deste
Dusty Deste photo exhibition curated by Sophie Piper
11:00am – 11:50amDiscover hidden visual histories of women’s work in Sunderland and the importance of Dusty Deste
Join Sophie to find out about her research into the hidden visual histories of women’s work in Sunderland and the importance of Dusty Deste’s contribution. The session will explore the concept behind the pop-up exhibition, using hands-on editing and sequencing activities. It will conclude with an overview of how Deste’s photographs will be used in a co-creation project with former female employees at Pyrex to create an inclusive catalogue of her work in the Historic England Archive.
The exhibition will be on display all day.
This project is supported by Historic England, working in partnership with Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens.
Led by: Sophie Piper
Gallery
Film Screening: Rupture by Open Clasp Theatre Company
11:00am
–
12:00pm
A film created with women from HMP Low Newton, and based on true-life experiences
Film Screening: Rupture by Open Clasp Theatre Company
11:00am – 12:00pmA film created with women from HMP Low Newton, and based on true-life experiences
There is a code blue, Destiny escapes onto a prison roof.
It’s Bonfire Night, the country is exploding and so is Destiny.
The award-winning company behind Key Change (New York Times Critics’ Pick) and Sugar on BBC iPlayer, bring you Rupture. Created with women from HMP Low Newton, and based on true-life experiences, Rupture is their story about being mothers in prison.
“Absolutely incredible. Powerful and insightful. I feel I know so much more about the experiences of mothers in prison. As always there is a spirit of fight, togetherness and love.”Audience Member
Cinema 1
WOW Bites
11:00am
–
12:00pm
Hear from the people making change and offering inspiration right here in our local communities
WOW Bites
11:00am – 12:00pmHear from the people making change and offering inspiration right here in our local communities
Hear from the people making change and offering inspiration right here in our local communities.
WOW Bites are short talks and stories, and sometimes soapbox moments, on a very wide range of subjects from the serious to the more zany. Some delivered by well-known local organisers, poets and activists and some you’ll never have heard of but have amazing stories about the things that matter the most.
Speakers include: Kelly Ensbury and Amy Walton from Urban Kaos; Laura Connolly from Clogbeatz; photographer Joanne Coates; cultural activist and campaigner Julie Ward; author of Women of the Durham Coalfield Margaret Hedley; Founder of Taste of Africa Sade Sangowawa; Managing Director of EQ Advantage Julie Martin
Cinema 2
Floral Painting workshop
11:00am
–
12:30pm
Step into a world of colour and creativity in this relaxed Floral Painting Workshop
Floral Painting workshop
11:00am – 12:30pmStep into a world of colour and creativity in this relaxed Floral Painting Workshop
Step into a world of colour and creativity in this relaxed Floral Painting Workshop. Surrounded by vases of fresh, seasonal blooms, you’ll be guided through techniques for creating beautiful floral patterns with ink.
Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or already love to paint, this workshop is designed to inspire and uplift. With gentle guidance and a calm atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to slow down and explore your creativity.
Led by: artist Katie Dyer
Clayport Library – Digital Media Lab
Climate Café for those who've Weathered Storms!
11:15am
–
12:15pm
Join a circle of wise, warm-hearted people for tea, talk, and inter-generational togetherness
Climate Café for those who've Weathered Storms!
11:15am – 12:15pmJoin a circle of wise, warm-hearted people for tea, talk, and inter-generational togetherness
You’ve seen the seasons change – now let’s talk about the climate.
Join a circle of wise, warm-hearted people for tea, talk, and inter-generational togetherness. At this Climate Café, there’s space to share your hopes, fears, and stories about the world we’re leaving behind – and the one we still have the power to shape.
Led by: cultural activist and campaigner Julie Ward
Café
Bollywood Dance Class
12:00pm
–
12:45pm
Step into the vibrant world of Bollywood – a joyful celebration of movement, storytelling, and tradition
Bollywood Dance Class
12:00pm – 12:45pmStep into the vibrant world of Bollywood – a joyful celebration of movement, storytelling, and tradition
Step into the vibrant world of Bollywood – a joyful celebration of movement, storytelling, and tradition. In this welcoming dance class, you’ll explore the beauty of Bollywood and the infectious energy of Bhangra. Led by an experienced instructor who’ll also share her own journey with South Asian dance and culture, this session offers more than just movement-it’s about connection, heritage, and joy. Whether you’re dancing for the first time or reconnecting with your roots, all are welcome.
Led by: Ravinda Cheema
Gallery
WOW Big Ideas
12:00pm
–
1:00pm
Come and hear some of the world’s most compelling speakers talk about the things they care about most
WOW Big Ideas
12:00pm – 1:00pmCome and hear some of the world’s most compelling speakers talk about the things they care about most
Come and hear some of the world’s most compelling speakers talk about the things they care about most. From Getrude Bell to alternative forms of justice for survivors – you’re sure to be challenged, inspired and more!
Speakers include: Dr Nina Burrowes; Kate Craddock (Gertrude Bell), Teissy Easton, Dr Lucy Reynolds (We Are All Disabled), Freya Salway (Google)
Auditorium
- BSL signed
- Captions
Threads of Tales: Exploring Storytelling through Nakshi Kantha
12:00pm
–
1:30pm
Explore traditional Bengali Nakshi Kantha embroidery as a storytelling tool in this interactive workshop
Threads of Tales: Exploring Storytelling through Nakshi Kantha
12:00pm – 1:30pmExplore traditional Bengali Nakshi Kantha embroidery as a storytelling tool in this interactive workshop
The workshop invites participants to explore traditional Bengali Nakshi Kantha embroidery as a storytelling tool. Using a handcrafted embroidered book as a storytelling prompt, participants will engage with Nakshi Kantha motifs, share narratives, and create their own designs inspired by this centuries-old craft.
Led by: Rumana Yasmin and Mahmuda Ferdausi
Café
Women in STEM: What’s Still Holding Us Back?
12:15pm
–
1:15pm
Hear from the experts at the fore of the industry as they share sharp insights and honest stories
Women in STEM: What’s Still Holding Us Back?
12:15pm – 1:15pmHear from the experts at the fore of the industry as they share sharp insights and honest stories
From missing toilets on site to missing out on promotions, women and non- binary people in STEM still face barriers that push too many out of the industry. This session shines a light on the everyday frustrations and bigger systemic problems and asks how we can fix them. Hear from the experts at the fore of the industry as they share sharp insights, honest stories, and bold ideas for making science, tech, engineering and maths a place where women don’t just get in, they stay and thrive.
Speakers Include: MP for Newcastle Upon Tyne Central and West Chi Onwurah, Major Projects Director at AECOM and Co-Chair of Women in Rail Yorkshire Isobel Crockford,
Cinema 2
Tees Women Poets
1:00pm
–
1:30pm
Tees Women Poets
1:00pm – 1:30pmThe Tees Women Poets believe a woman's place is on stage! This artist-led charity supports women of all ages and backgrounds to find their voice, take up space, and build their confidence through writing and performing poetry.
Café Stage
Mass Sing-along: A Song for Collective Liberation!
1:45pm
–
2:45pm
A joyful, no-pressure class where we belt out a powerful protest song
Mass Sing-along: A Song for Collective Liberation!
1:45pm – 2:45pmA joyful, no-pressure class where we belt out a powerful protest song
Join us for a joyful, no-pressure class where we belt out a powerful protest song inspired by our own sense of justice, joy, and community as we take part in a mass sing-along! And if you're feeling brave (or just a little bit loud), perform with us at the festival later in the day!
No experience needed – just your lungs, your heart, and your will to sing for change.
Led by: Beccy Owen
Clayport Library – Digital Media lab
Clogbeatz!
2:00pm
–
2:45pm
Learn the traditional art of clog dancing in the place where it all began – Durham!
Clogbeatz!
2:00pm – 2:45pmLearn the traditional art of clog dancing in the place where it all began – Durham!
Learn the traditional art of clog dancing in the place where it all began – Durham!
Fused with the modern pulse of hip-hop and live drumming, join us as we tap and stomp our way through history, learning a new skill and preserving a piece of local history all at the same time.
Led by: Laura Connolly, featuring Carol Bowden
Gallery
Urban Kaos
2:00pm
–
3:00pm
Join us for an uplifting dance workshop to turn messy energy into pure movement and joy!
Urban Kaos
2:00pm – 3:00pmJoin us for an uplifting dance workshop to turn messy energy into pure movement and joy!
Feeling like life’s a bit chaotic? Perfect – that’s exactly why you need to dance it out with Urban Kaos! Join us for an uplifting dance workshop where all levels come together to turn messy energy into pure movement and joy!
This session is open to all ages and abilities.
Workshop facilitators: Urban Kaos founders, Kelly Ensbury and Amy Walton
Studio 1
How to be Good in Bed: The Game Show!
2:00pm
–
3:00pm
Expect to learn and laugh as panellists compete to win the accolade of being good in bed
How to be Good in Bed: The Game Show!
2:00pm – 3:00pmExpect to learn and laugh as panellists compete to win the accolade of being good in bed
Join The Consent Collective for their live gameshow How to be Good in Bed. Expect to learn and laugh as panellists compete to win the accolade of being good in bed in the game show that touches on pleasure, consent and relationships in all the right ways (as long as they are enthusiastically consenting)!
This session is 16+
Led by: Dr Nina Burrowes and Cynthia Ellis featuring a range of special guests!
Cinema 1
Gritty & Glorious – Theatre and fun
2:00pm
–
3:45pm
Powerful snippets from some of the North East’s most exciting theatre shows today
Gritty & Glorious – Theatre and fun
2:00pm – 3:45pmPowerful snippets from some of the North East’s most exciting theatre shows today
Celebrate the heart, soul, and stories of our communities through powerful snippets from some of the North East’s most exciting theatre shows today. Raw, real, and full of spirit-this is a night of local voices, shared experiences, and unforgettable moments. Come together, feel the energy, and be part of something special.
Cinema 2
Drag Declares Emergency!
2:00pm
–
4:00pm
Join us to collage your very own mini mythical drag creature and tiny climate emergency placards
Drag Declares Emergency!
2:00pm – 4:00pmJoin us to collage your very own mini mythical drag creature and tiny climate emergency placards
You’re invited to mischievously recraft ideas about Disability, gender, and climate emergency using drag costumes and props made from recycled, reused and natural materials. Inspired by mythical creatures that encourage us to expand our imaginations beyond the binary, join us to collage your very own mini mythical drag creature and tiny climate emergency placards, keeping your hands busy and minds buzzing!
Led By: Lady Kitt
Café
Pride Banners
2:00pm
–
4:30pm
Work with Curious Arts to create your own mini march banner to express your pride or hopes for the future
Pride Banners
2:00pm – 4:30pmWork with Curious Arts to create your own mini march banner to express your pride or hopes for the future
Key elements of LGBTQIA+ culture, art and activism often join forces to make change happen.
Work with Curious Arts to create your own mini march banner to express your pride or hopes for the future.
From equal rights or the climate emergency, more school holidays or a later bedtime - whatever you’re passionate about, channel your creativity and share it through a march-worthy mini banner!
Children’s Library, Clayport Library
Beyond the Riots
2:45pm
–
3:45pm
This powerful conversation explores the impact of conflict on communities
Beyond the Riots
2:45pm – 3:45pmThis powerful conversation explores the impact of conflict on communities
What happens after the headlines fade? In the wake of unrest - whether in the North East or across the world - how are people really feeling? This powerful conversation explores the impact of conflict on communities, from local tensions to global wars, and what it means to carry on. Through shared stories and honest dialogue, we’ll look at fear, resilience, and the hope that can rise from unrest.
Speakers include: Emma Dabiri, Yasmin Khan, Faty Kane and Tahmina Ali
Auditorium
- BSL signed
- Captions
The F*ck Off Fund Formula
3:00pm
–
4:00pm
This session will tool you up to take control of your money, mindset and your future
The F*ck Off Fund Formula
3:00pm – 4:00pmThis session will tool you up to take control of your money, mindset and your future
From crafting financial stability to nailing the F*ck Off Fund formula, this session will tool you up to take control of your money, mindset and your future.
Led by straight talking Cambridge student, Chartered Accountant and entrepreneur who has grafted her way through the chaos of life, business and raising a family on her own - this isn't theory - it's lived experience. This is the money chat you didn't know you needed - honest and empowering. So, whether you're starting from scratch or levelling up, it's time to shift your thinking, back yourself fully and stop playing small with your finances.
Led by: Jordan Groody
Clayport Library – Digital Media Lab
Express Yourself Dress up Station
3:15pm
–
4:15pm
Dive into our dressing up box to create an amazing outfit
Express Yourself Dress up Station
3:15pm – 4:15pmDive into our dressing up box to create an amazing outfit
Dive into our dressing up box to create an amazing outfit that celebrates everything that’s unique and brilliant about you. Then practice your power poses and show off your dance moves on the rainbow catwalk!
Suitable for: families/all ages.
Led by: Curious Arts
Gallery
Closing Session with Jill Scott: Football and Folk!
4:15pm
–
5:45pm
Closing Session with Jill Scott: Football and Folk!
4:15pm – 5:45pmJoin us for a spectacular closing session with Jill Scott MBE – footballer, Lioness, broadcaster, and national treasure. From UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 glory to her hilarious and heartfelt moments on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, Jill brings her grit, humour, and unmistakable North East spirit to the stage.
In conversation, she’ll share stories from growing up in Sunderland to breaking barriers in women’s football, inspiring laughter, reflection, and insight.
Followed for a live music set by Amelia Coburn, the homegrown singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence, bringing warmth, energy, and the perfect soundtrack to close the festival.
Led by: Jude Kelly, featuring Jill Scott and guests
Performance by: Amelia Coburn
Auditorium
- BSL signed
- Captions
Dates & Times
All times shown in GMT