The Diary Get the party started

CAN YOU BELIEVE TRAMLINES IS 15? WITH RICHARD ASHCROFT, THE COURTEENERS, PAUL HEATON AND MORE, THIS YEAR’S EVENT LOOKS SET TO BE A SCORCHER. LET’S HOPE THE WEATHER OBLIGES TOO.

he countdown is now well and truly on. By the time you read this, work is probably well underway to get Hillsborough Park ready for what will be the fifth Tramlines event to be held there.

And what a line-up we have. Way back at the start of the year it was confirmed that Richard Ashcroft, The Courteeners and Paul Heaton would be headlining the weekend, which takes place from 2123 July. These will be joined by the likes of DMA’s, Kaiser Chiefs, Sugababes and Bloc Party. Local favourites Reverend & The Makers and the Everly Pregnant Brothers will also return.

The second wave of announcements added UK Eurovision contestant Mae Muller, Ella Henderson, Professor Green, Chappaqua Wrestling and more.

Operations director Timm Cleasby has been involved with Tramlines since the beginning and said: “This year’s line-up is a cracker with some awesome names and, as always, there’s more than just music with loads to do, see and get involved with.

“My personal must-sees are Kate Nash, Rachel Chinouriri, Rumbi Tauro, Sugababes, the funny Paul Smith and Paul Heaton. To quote our much-missed friend Sarah Nulty, ‘I just want to have a massive party with all my friends’. The turns are booked, the party’s on and you’re all invited. It can’t come soon enough.”

Comedy plays a huge part of Tramlines, taking over the T’Other Stage in the daytime. Acts confirmed this year include award-winning comedian and Hollywood star Omid Djalili, the outrageous spoof news reporter Jonathan Pie, and the quick-witted Hot Water Comedy Club compere Paul Smith. Plenty more laughs are in store with Tom Wrigglesworth, John Hastings, Nina Gilligan, Tamer Kattan, Scott Bennett and Raul Kohli.

Since 2009, Tramlines remains true to its roots in supporting both breaking and emerging talent. This year it’s tipping acts such as Stone, The Moly Wallopers, Primaqueen, Jetski, Franz Von, Amaroun, Deadletter, Lizzie Esau, Deuxe to be big hits.

Each year The Library Stage is a thriving home to a diverse selection of grass roots artists and once again local talent competition Pattern and Push will be curating the Saturday line-up, with newly-announced local acts Coco, Deuxe, JxK and DJ Lamour confirmed to appear.

The Open Arms stage has been an absolute hit with festival goers ever since its arrival in 2021 for its buzzing atmosphere and cabaret-style billing. Tramlines is thrilled to reveal the return of Shaun Williams’ Barrioke for 2023 which pulls in one of the biggest crowds of the weekend. There will be sing-alongs galore with Hip Hop Karaoke and Tragedy - Heavy Metal Bee Gees from NYC- games from Musical Bingo and Shell Suit Cher Bingo, world music from The Mariachis and German oompah band Brasswurst, and many more not-tomissed performances including, The Daniel Wakeford Experience, and the band born out of Sheffield’s disability arts charity, Under The Stars.

The Open Arms is also host to ‘Speakers Corner’, the only place on site to discover cutting edge lyricists, insightful poets and spoken word artists. Poet and hip-hop artist himself, Otis Mensah, is back to programme an exciting mix of talent that includes, San Diego rapper RoQy TyRaiD, a takeover from Sheffield’s urban lyricist competition Slambarz featuring The 1 Devotion and Young Eman, the caressing tones of Aka Kelzz, the emerging talents of poet Tai Ògún, Sheffield’s newest Poet Laureate, Danaë Wellington, and so much more.

Dominic Heslop, co-founder of Slambarz said, “We are so grateful for the opportunity to showcase the incredible talent, charisma and artistry that our young musicians possess. At Slambarz we strongly advocate live performance to enhance the connection between artists, audience and the community.

“Tramlines is one of biggest music festivals in the UK, renowned for its colossal headline acts, diverse culture and exponent of grassroots musicians and we’re very happy to be involved.”

And if that wasn’t enough, The Open Arms will also stage party-starting DJ sets when some of Sheffield’s favourite club brands takeover. Expect to flex the vocal cords and do some serious shapethrowing when The Sound - A Celebration of the 1975, ABBA Party, and the Club Tropicana DJs take control of the sound desk. There ain’t no party like a Tramlines party!

As we get ready to go to print, there was a handful of tickets still available – and we mean a handful. To find out more, visit www.tramlines.org.uk

Words: Paige Bailey

The Addams Family

28-29 July / City Varieties Music Hall

Leedsheritagetheatres.com

In The Addams Family theatre production, audiences are invited into the eerie and comical world of the iconic Addams family. The plot revolves around Wednesday Addams, the daughter of Gomez and Morticia, who has fallen in love with a “normal” boy named Lucas Beineke. Throughout the show, secrets are revealed, relationships are tested, and the true meaning of family and acceptance is explored.

The Caretaker

Summer Series

Various Dates / Millennium Square, Leeds www.millsqleeds.com

The annual Summer Series makes a welcome return to the heart of Leeds ity entre this July and August, promising an unforgettable experience with 16 openair gigs from world-renowned and emerging acts.

Artists lined up to perform at Millennium Square include McFly, Kasabian, Blossoms, Morrissey, Bastille, The Wombats, Shed Seven, Nile Rogers featuring CHIC and The Levellers.

The eclectic programme truly has something for everyone; featuring eighties favourites with a classical twist (80s Classical), an electrifying club vs classical night (Club Classical Anthems), a seventies disco extravaganza hosted by the iconic Brutus Gold, an ABBA tribute night (Thank You For The Music), performances by top names in Ska & Mod (Leeds Ska & Mod Festival) and the ultimate Popworld celebration (The Popworld Festival).

Tickets for all events are now on sale, so don’t miss out on one of the top things to do in Leeds this summer.

The Whitney Houston Experience

1 July / Doncaster Little Theatre

Doncasterlittletheatre.co.uk

Experience the mesmerising talent of Whitney Houston brought to you by vocalist, Kieshia. This show brings her iconic music to life, with stunning vocals and a tribute that captures the essence of the legendary artist. Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with hits, nostalgia and the timeless voice of Whitney.

Legend: The Music of Bob Marley

12 July / Leeds Grand Theatre

Leedsheritagetheatre.com

This sensational tribute show celebrates the music and spirit of the legendary musician, delivering an electrifying performance that will transport you to the soulful world of Bob Marley. Get ready to groove to the iconic hits and feel the positive vibes in this ultimate musical experience.

Fastlove: The Tribute to George Michael

17 July / Leeds Grand Theatre

Leedsheritagetheatre.com

Prepare for an incredible musical journey through the iconic hits of George Michael. This sensational show pays homage to the legendary artist, capturing his incredible talent and timeless music. With a remarkable lead vocalist, energetic performances, and stunning visuals, “Fastlove” recreates the magic and charisma of George Michael on stage. From Wham! classics to his solo masterpieces, you will be dancing all night.

The Proclaimers

9 July / Leeds Grand Theatre

Leedsheritagetheatre.com

The Proclaimers, consisting of Scottish twin brothers Charlie and Craig Reid, have left an unforgettable mark on the music scene with their unique blend of folk, pop, and rock. Known for their distinctive harmonies and heartfelt song writing, The Proclaimers have gained a loyal following worldwide.

13-15 July / Doncaster Little Theatre

Doncasterlittletheatre.com

Experience Harold Pinter’s masterpiece, “The Caretaker,” at Doncaster Little Theatre. This riveting play delves into the complex dynamics between three characters living in a London flat. With Harold Pinter’s trademark dark humour and psychological tension, “The Caretaker” delves into themes of power, identity, and the human condition, leaving audiences captivated and introspective.

Classical

The Sixteen

9 July / York Minister www.yorkminster.org

Experience the breath-taking beauty of classical music. Prepare to be transported by the angelic voices of The Sixteen and their timeless music, creating a truly magical and unforgettable musical experience within this historic cathedral.

Summer Organ Recitals

20 July - 24 August / York Minister www.yorkminister.org

These beautiful recitals feature accomplished organists showcasing their musical mastery. From classical compositions to contemporary works, the organ’s majestic sounds fill the air, creating a captivating experience that celebrates the rich heritage and artistry of organ music.

Troy Hawke: Sigmund Troy’d!

6 July / City Varieties Music Hall

Leedsheritagetheatres.com

Get ready for an uproarious comedy experience with Troy. This hilarious show features the quick-witted and eccentric character of Troy Hawke, who takes audiences on a sidesplitting journey through his absurd and hilarious perspectives.

Jimmy Carr: Terribly Funny 2.0

30 July / Leeds Grand Theatre https://leedsheritagetheatres.com

Jimmy Carr- the master of dark and quick-witted comedy. He is renowned for his razor-sharp jokes and fearless delivery. Jimmy’s stand-up shows leave audiences in stitches. Expect a night filled with clever one-liners and brutal honesty.

Exhibition

Grayson Perry: The Vanity of Small Differences

Until 3 September / Wentworth Woodhouse wentworthwoodhouse.org.uk

This summer, Wentworth Woodhouse are delighted to be exhibiting Grayson Perry’s The Vanity of Small Differences, which tells the story of class mobility and the influence social class has on our aesthetic taste.

Through six large-scale tapestries, Perry weaves autobiographical references with the many characters, incidents and objects he encountered on his ‘safari amongst the taste tribes of Britain’. Inspired by Hogarth’s A Rake’s Progress, this exhibition tells the story of the rise and demise of Tim Rakewell and aims to act as a record of this precise moment in history.

Events

Dragon Boat Race

1 July / Leeds Docks

Teams from various organizations come together to paddle their way to victory, showcasing teamwork, strength, and determination. The atmosphere is electric as the colourful dragon boats glide across the water, creating an exhilarating spectacle that unites participants and spectators in a celebration of community and competition.

2023 Race Night

22 July / Hunslet Cricket Club

Comedy Antiques

Join the excitement of the 2023 Race Night at Hunslet Cricket Club. This thrilling event brings the thrill of horse racing to the heart of Leeds. Place your bets, cheer for your favourite horses, and soak up the lively atmosphere as the races unfold on the big screen. It’s a night of entertainment, camaraderie, and racing thrills for all attendees.

Film

Barbie

21 July

This exciting new adaptation promises a fresh and empowering take on the iconic character, offering audiences a captivating story and Margot Robbie’s exceptional performance. Brace yourself for a Barbie experience like never before.

Mission: Impossible –Dead Reckoning Part One

12 July

Buckle up for an adrenalinefueled ride. Tom Cruise reprises his role as the unstoppable Ethan Hunt in this action-packed instalment. With mind-blowing stunts and non-stop excitement, the film delivers the perfect blend of thrills and suspense. Get ready for a mission you won’t forget.

The Northern Antiques Fair

28 September-1 October

The Garden Rooms at Tennants, Harmby Road, Leyburn, DL8 5SG www.northernfair.com

The unmissable Northern Antiques Fair, brimming with creative ideas, inspiration and fascinating works of art from all periods of history, is returning for the third year to The Garden Rooms at Tennants. Presenting a wonderful mix of antique and contemporary works of art from the UK’s leading antiques and fine art dealers – selling period furniture, oil and watercolour paintings, glass, sculpture, clocks, silver, jewellery, ceramics, rugs and a wealth of decorative items, this event offers the ideal opportunity to catch up with family and friends as well as renewing or making new contacts with the dealers. The fair brings together some 40 exhibitors with a sprinkling of new faces including Bink Fine Art from the Cotswolds who handle works from the Impressionist era through to Modern British along with a little contemporary, Frodsham Clocks owned by Simon Frodsham, a great-great great-grandson of the famous clockmaker William James Frodsham who established his firm in 1801 and McBain & Byrne from Co Durham showing a Regency period rosewood credenza in untouched country house condition and an exceptional George IV penwork games table, c1825. Rupert McBain is both a furniture designer and dealer in English and Irish antique furniture.