Oscar-winning writer joins Live's Unearthed Festival line-up
Newcastle’s Live Theatre is set to host an 11-day celebration of fresh voices and creative risk-taking as it launches its new Unearthed Festival, running from May 20 to 31.
Dedicated to new writing and artist development, the festival will bring together high-profile names and rising talent from the North East and beyond.
Among the highlights is a live online Q&A with Moonlight screenwriter and Oscar-winner Tarell Alvin McCraney, and a masterclass with acclaimed playwright Alistair McDowall (Pomona, X).
The Royal Court at Live – a collaboration led by David Byrne and Middlesbrough-born writer Ishy Din – will further cement the festival’s national scope.
Other standout events include play readings, scratch performances, and the ever-popular Fail Friday, hosted by theatre-maker Luca Rutherford. Most tickets will be available at Live Theatre’s £6 freelance rate, with additional events including a mid-career artist gathering and parent-friendly creative socials.
Live Theatre’s artistic director Jack McNamara said the festival was a defiant celebration of creativity in challenging times.
“Newcastle, and the wider North East, is rightfully being seen as the crucible of new work,” he said. “Stories can be lifelines – threads of hope, defiance and shared humanity. A festival like Unearthed reminds us of the power and necessity of investing in new voices.”
Artist development producer John Dawson added: “This isn’t just about performance – it’s about connection, courage, and championing stories rooted in our region that deserve to be heard.”
Further programme announcements are expected soon. Tickets and full festival details are available at www.live.org.uk.