Bishop Auckland is busy celebrating local stories, creativity and community spirit with the launch of Word Fest – Turn the Page this September.
Created by Dispel Arts and funded by Bishop Auckland Town Council, the community-driven festival will run from 7–20 September, bringing together residents, schools, artists, authors, businesses and community groups for a town-wide celebration of storytelling and local identity.
Taking place in and around Bishop Auckland’s historic Market Place, Word Fest will invite people to explore what the town means to them, celebrate its character and heritage, and share their hopes for its future.
The festival opened this week with a special launch event at The Artists’ Hub from 5pm to 7pm, featuring Sarah Calavera, whose work champions Northern identity, lived experience and bold, expressive storytelling.
The Bard himself also took a moment out from his work at Kynren – the Storied Lands to lend his support to the opening night.
The opening conversation and creative sharing set the tone for two weeks of activities designed by Dispel Arts to put local voices, pride and imagination centre stage.
Programme highlights include a Word Trail, inviting families and residents to discover Bishop Auckland through creative prompts and installations; activities delivered by Daisy Arts CIC; appearances and readings from local authors, and a lively performance from the Shanty Signers, bringing together music, heritage and community spirit.
Local businesses and Bishop Auckland’s libraries are also supporting the festival, helping Dispel Arts create a welcoming celebration with opportunities for people of all ages to get involved.
Alison Curry, creative producer at Dispel Arts, said: “Word Fest this year is Chapter One and is about giving people the space to tell their stories, celebrate their roots and imagine what comes next for Bishop Auckland, all while promoting the joy of reading and writing for pleasure.
“Creativity belongs to everyone, and this festival is our way of bringing that belief to life.”
The recently unveiled Artists’ Hub in Bishop Auckland Market Place provided a fitting setting for the opening event.
The community space provides mentoring, training and opportunities to exhibit the work of emerging artists, helping to build local skills and support creative careers.
Working in partnership with Bishop Auckland College, it will also offer courses in areas including ceramics, photography and textiles.
To find out more, follow @dispelart, @daisyartcic and @theartisthub.bishop on Instagram.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
