A RECENT call-out for a new Town Crier for Middlesbrough saw a flurry of video auditions from wannabe hopefuls.
Philip Harrison, a local performance artist, was selected as the winner with his flamboyant presence on camera, a loud and commanding voice and his creative flair, including the phrase: “God save the parmo!”
Judges said all of the entrants to the competition were fantastic, but it was Philip’s eulogy to Middlesbrough’s infamous parmo that really made him stand out for all the judges.
And the new Middlesbrough Town Crier made his debut this week during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Read more: The great escalope – the history of the parmo, the national dish of Teesside
The first Town Cry for 2022 took place at on Thursday in Centre Square, followed by a performance from the Musinc Jubilee choir, accompanied by a full orchestra.
Elements of the new Town Crier’s livery have been created using old velvet curtains that had previously been hung in Middlesbrough Town Hall.
Inspired by traditional Town Crier uniforms, the regency era, the new romantic looks of Adam Ant in his Prince Charming era and Boy George of the 1980s, the new livery includes a cape, robes, a waistcoat and hat; there is also a child-size replica version of the cape.
No longer required, the curtains were stored away until the idea of upcycling them and turning them into the Town Crier’s cape was suggested. There is also a smaller version of the cape being made for when children visit the Town Hall and have tours of the council chambers.
Councillor Stephen Hill, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for culture and communities, said: “We can’t wait for you all to see, and definitely hear, the new Town Crier for Middlesbrough.
“It’s a fantastic addition to a jam-packed Jubilee. We hope you all have a brilliant bank holiday and enjoy the host of free events in the town centre and across Middlesbrough too.”
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