Young people in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, will showcase their creativity during the Shape Youth Festival which takes place from 16 February to 1 March 2026. This two-week event is organised by Shape Gateshead and features a variety of workshops and performances designed to help residents aged 11-25 learn new skills and connect with their local community.
Activities will be held at several locations across the area, including The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Saltwell Park, and the Gateshead Central Library. Participants can take part in free or low-cost sessions covering topics like digital arts, music-making, and crafts.
The festival is supported by Gateshead Council and aims to bring professional arts opportunities directly into local neighbourhoods. According to Councillor Gary Haley, these events are important because they allow young residents to help influence the decisions that affect where they live.
Members of the Gateshead Youth Council have also worked to ensure the programme is relevant to local people. The festival includes spotlight events in community hubs to make it easier for families to find youth services and creative projects close to home.
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