Great north partnership launched

As more than 55,000 runners competed in this year’s Great North Run, a major cultural event was launched at Sport Central Arena to celebrate the world’s largest half marathon.

Marking the beginning of a new partnership between Northumbria University and Great North Run Culture – an organisation that brings together sport and the arts – the launch featured film, radio and live performances inspired by Tyneside’s iconic sporting event. Hosted by columnist and TV presenter Miranda Sawyer, the evening also included a sneak preview of Tracer – a new film by artist, Melanie Manchot.

Commissioned by Great North Run Culture, Tracer features ten parkour runners, or traceurs, who trace the route of the run incorporating their trademark jumps, vaults and urban gymnastics. The film focuses on how the parkourists interact with, and become part of, the urban environment.

The Sport Central audience was also treated to a live parkour demonstration, a performance from Maximo Park frontman Paul Smith, and an extract from a futuristic radio broadcast by artist Adam Chodzko. The on-going programme of work, which will be showcased at venues throughout the region, also features a portrait exhibition from acclaimed illustrator and designer, Daisy de Villeneuve.

Lucy Winskell, Pro ViceChancellor (Business and Engagement), Northumbria University, said: “Northumbria University is proud to host the launch of Great North Run Culture 2013.

“Our partnership with Great North Run Culture is a strong example of Northumbria University’s involvement in the fabric of the region’s culture and life.”

Beth Bate, Director of Great North Run Culture, said: “We’re really excited to be working with four brilliant artists this year on four very different projects. Our launch event at Sport Central was designed to tantalise the audience with a flavour of what’s to come throughout the coming months.

“As ever, we couldn’t do it without our fantastic project partners and funders and we can’t wait to welcome audiences to our full 2013 programme.”

For further information, see www.greatnorthrunculture.org