What's On

A NEW artwork depicting the ‘Global’ acts who have visited Stockton over the years has been unveiled.

With some theatre-goers unable to find their way from the Wellington Square car park to The Globe, the artwork shines a light on some of the big name acts who have played there – while also pointing the way to the venue.

Chantal Taylor, Marketing Manager at Wellington Square, asked local illustrators and designers Abby Taylor and Owen Smith of Abby+Owen to create the mural.

She said: “I love to see Wellington Square looking vibrant and offering visitors lots to see and do. On this occasion with an unashamed bit of name-dropping thrown in!

“Abby+Owen, who also created the ‘bridges’ you’ll see over head in Wellington Square, are always true to the local heritage and thoroughly research projects before coming back with a design.

“They stayed true to the art deco style of The Grade II listed building giving visitors a taste of what’s to come when they see their show.

Abby said: “This project was especially meaningful to us as both residents of Stockton and live music and art lovers!

“We hope we have faithfully captured The Globe’s Art Deco style while also highlighting iconic acts that define The Globe’s illustrious history.

“More than just a piece of art, this mural serves as elegant wayfinding signage. It is a visual journey through time, enriching the community and celebrating this amazing venue.”

Rebecca Baker, head of marketing and communications at The Globe, said: “We were thrilled to be asked to collaborate on this project. Wellington Square is on The Globe’s doorstep, our visitors regularly pass through the shopping centre and is an ideal location for some quirky wayfinding!

 “It is important for us to work with local establishments and suppliers to further promote our wonderful area and all it has to offer, feeding into the wider Tees Valley tourism.

“Abby+Owen have previously created artwork depicting our building throughout the years, and we knew this project was the right fit for them. The artwork is certainly eye-catching and we can’t wait for visitors to see it!”

The Globe originally opened its doors in 1935 and in its heyday hosted international names – from The Beatles and The Rolling Stones to Sadler’s Wells Ballet, Norman Wisdom and Tina Turner.

Since its resurrection The Globe has hosted scores of modern entertainment shows featuring the likes of Michael McIntyre, Paloma Faith and local talent James Arthur.