The sound of BBC Proms has arrived in Teesside, bringing one of the world's most famous classical music festivals to the region as part of its biggest North East programme to date.
In a first for Middlesbrough and the wider Tees Valley, BBC Proms in the North East opened at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Thursday (July 23).
The show featured folk favourites The Unthanks performing alongside Royal Northern Sinfonia under the baton of conductor Ellie Slorach.
This is the first time one of the world's most famous classical music festivals has come to Middlesbrough, following its expansion beyond Gateshead and Sunderland.
Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, said: "We are committed to bringing world-class events to our region, and hosting the BBC Proms in Middlesbrough is a powerful example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships with organisations like the BBC.
"This event ensures that people across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool can experience the Proms on their own doorstep, while also championing one of our outstanding local venues and delivering an important boost to our local economy."
This year marks the most extensive North East programme to date.
The festival now spans three cities: Middlesbrough, Gateshead and Sunderland.
Kesia Bruce, general manager of Middlesbrough Town Hall, said: "We're delighted to welcome the BBC Proms to Middlesbrough Town Hall for the very first time.
"It's a landmark moment for the venue and for our town, and one that builds on our strong musical heritage."
The opening night concert in Middlesbrough featured Tyneside sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank - known for their distinctive blend of folk music and storytelling - performing with Royal Northern Sinfonia.
Guest artists included English Teacher, Villagers frontman Conor O'Brien, and Radiohead drummer Philip Selway.
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The concert will be broadcast to audiences on BBC Radio 3, bringing the sounds of Teesside to fans across the UK.
Following the main concert, Middlesbrough is also hosting BBC Young Composer workshops for musicians aged 12 to 18 - sessions designed to nurture new talent by offering support from experienced composers and performers.
Now in its fifth year in the region, BBC Proms in the North East has become a flagship cultural event.
For Middlesbrough, the event is a milestone in its cultural development and a symbol of its growing reputation for hosting major cultural events.
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