In 2014, the Great North Run saw its one millionth finish making it the biggest half marathon in the world! To mark this occasion, Great North Run Culture hosted the GNR Million opening ceremony on the banks of the River Tyne. One major part of the GNR Million opening ceremony was the story And Let Us Run, written by local author David Almond, it told the tale of the North East from the beginning of time right through to the present day.

It celebrated the triumphs and people of the region and remembered the hardships and obstacles we have faced. It paid tribute to the ordinary people of the North East who have accomplished extraordinary things.

Informed by this tale, students from a number of the region’s primary schools have worked with theatre professionals to create a short play enacting their interpretation of David Almond’s story.

Produced by Unfolding Theatre and performed by professional actors Alex Elliott and Ruth Johnson, we are delighted to be able to showcase And Let Us Run: The Play at three venues across Tyne & Wear, with the kind support of Port of Tyne, Tyne and Wear Archives & Museums and Heritage Lottery Fund.

14:30 - And Let Us Run: The Play

Events are ticketed, but tickets are free of charge

Tuesday 26 May, Shipley Art Gallery, Gateshead - click for tickets

Wednesday 27 May, Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle - click for tickets

Friday 29 May South Shields Museum, South Shields - click for tickets

With thanks to the schools involved; Ravenswood Primary, Hotspur Primary, Bede Community Primary, Hadrian Primary, St. Peter & St. Paul RC Primary, Bamburgh School and David Almond.