A new community initiative is starting to take shape in Weardale with the aim of bringing musicians, performers and residents together through a series of relaxed Open Mic nights.
Local resident, Andy Clarke from Wearhead, has created the Weardale Open Mic project as a way of supporting local pubs during the quieter winter months while giving people across the dale a friendly and enjoyable night out.
“As you are probably aware, the valley can feel very quiet after Christmas,” Andy explains. “The idea is to create something warm and welcoming that brings people together. It is not a commercial thing. It is purely a community builder.”
The plan is to establish a small circuit of Open Mic nights rotating through a few pubs in the valley, with Stanhope likely to become the central venue due to its location and access. Early interest has already come from pubs including the Grey Bull in Stanhope, the Black Bull in Wolsingham, the Blue Bell in St Johns Chapel and venues further up the dale.
The Open Mic nights will be open to anyone who wants to take part, whether they sing, play an instrument, read poems, tell stories or simply enjoy being part of a live audience.
Andy is realistic about the challenges of starting something new.
“Events like this are always a numbers game,” he says. “If one hundred people say they are interested, you might only get five turning up on the night. That is just how real life works. Which is why we are trying to build up interest now so we can make the first night a success.”
To help with organisation, a Facebook group and a WhatsApp community have been set up where musicians, venues and the public can share ideas, offer lifts and plan attendance.
Andy is also exploring the possibility of simple transport options or lift sharing to help residents from across the valley attend, especially during the darker winter evenings.
“We want this to be something the whole valley can enjoy, not just those who live close to the venue,” he says.
Anyone interested in being involved, performing or simply attending can join the Facebook group:
www.facebook.com/groups/weardaleopenmic
“All welcome,” Andy adds. “The more voices we gather, the stronger this can become for the valley.”
