Five Minutes With… The Late Shows Founder Bill Griffiths

What was the original inspiration behind The Late Shows?

It goes back to 2007 when there was an event called the Museums at Night festival which was just being launched in the UK. We were asked – as Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums - to do something for it, because we have a broad role within the cultural sector coordinating things. We sat down and thought about how we could bring our museums into it and thought ‘What about the contemporary art scene in Newcastle as well?’. So, we tried it and we got 14 venues that first year. Everyone was very nervous and didn't know what it would be like but it was a success and it's just grown and grown since then really. And now have this incredible stable of venues.

How has it developed over the last 17 years —  does it just keep getting bigger?

This year we have 63 Late Shows venues, so we're getting back up to pre-COVID levels now. I think the important thing about that is, if you'd ask when we started whether there were even that many venues that could join in in the area, I’d have said I very much doubt it, and it’s really shown how much stuff there is.

Are visitor numbers increasing as well?

Yes, and people just keep coming back, which is great. There are people who see this as a big part of the year for them, you know, a really significant night, which is really pleasing.

What would you say is different about The Late Shows now compared with the 2007 incarnation?

Apart from gaining footfall, I think there’s even more creativity within it, with even more people who think of different ways to join in. We try and keep a very open remit, so as many venues as possible can join in, you know? I think in many ways the beauty of it is that it works as a model — people can come into it and do their own thing, but it all hangs together as this overall display of what we've got across Newcastle and Gateshead. I'll tell you now, you can't do in any other city, as no one else has got the numbers to do this kind of thing in such a small area. Other cities have tried, and there are other similar late night events, but as far as I'm aware, there's never been anything on this scale.

How would you sum up what the Late Shows offers the people of Newcastle and Gateshead?

I think it really is a showcase for the fact that we have something different up here, the sheer quantity and variety of venues. It showcases us as a creative area, as a cultural area and as an area that can have a good time as well.

Is there anything in particular you think people need to try and check out?

I always steer clear of that question because it depends who you are! What I say about The Late Shows is there’s something for everyone. If someone really, really can’t cope with contemporary art, there'll be some heritage and vice versa. Have a look at the programme, there's something for everyone, but I would say this is a cultural tapas -  have a little taste of the things you don't think you're going to like. You might be surprised!

The Late Shows take place on Friday 17^th May in Ouseburn and on Saturday 18^th May in Newcastle and Gateshead. Check the programme for details of all venues taking part.