As the excitement for the 2024 Durham Miners Gala peaked, Redhills Durham proudly hosted a vibrant lineup of pre-speech activities and performances that left a lasting impression on attendees. Building on the success of previous years, the event showcased the spirit of the mining community through creative workshops, dynamic performances, and heartfelt musical showcases.
Celebrating Tradition and Community
The Durham Miners Gala, affectionately known as the “Big Meeting,” has long celebrated solidarity, working-class culture, and the mining community’s rich history. Redhills Durham continued to expand its programming, offering a range of activities that embodied the event’s spirit.
Memorable Activities of 2024
Attendees were able to immerse themselves in creativity through the Zine Making Workshop with County Durham born artists Holly Dooley and Charlotte Solly. Those who dropped by for the workshops expressed their stories and artistic talents by crafting unique zines that resonated with the Gala’s themes.
Similarly, the Strike Collective Badge-Making Workshop, led by Inky Makes, allowed participants to create their own badges, blending personal creativity with the cause of solidarity and labour history.
Unforgettable Performances
The event featured a series of dynamic performances that energised the crowd. Jack Drum Arts returned with their Nordestinos signature music, dance, and theatre blend, captivating the parade with their engaging set.
Northern Roots, led by Bill Elliott, delivered a powerful performance that connected deeply with the heritage and spirit of the Gala.
At the same time, West Rainton Primary School‘s talented young musicians showcased their skills and enthusiasm, mainly through the impressive West Rainton Steel Band. Despite challenges such as a lack of permanent rehearsal space, the band’s performance was a highlight, and their determination to continue their journey was truly inspiring.
Young brass musicians were also invited to play Gresford (The Miners’ Hymn) with Fishburn Band, which opened up the speeches on the Gala Platform
The high-energy brass band Loud Noises also delivered memorable performances as they marched in with Equity, with their powerful sound and dynamic presence further enriching the day’s events.
Guided by Alfie Joey
The charismatic Alfie Joey, who served as the Master of Ceremonies, seamlessly woven the day’s activities and performances. His wit, charm, and deep connection to the community made him the perfect host, ensuring the energy remained high throughout the day.
All captured beautifully by The Live Sketcher
As part of our programming around the Durham Miners’ Gala, we commissioned the brilliant Rach, aka The Live Sketcher, to capture some of the day’s community and connection elements so that we could share and remember the day in an alternative way.
In conclusion, the 2024 Durham Miners Gala was a resounding success, with Redhills Durham’s programming continuing to grow and inspire. The event not only celebrated the rich history of the mining community but also created new memories and connections that will be cherished for years to come. We could not continue to develop our programming at the Miners’ Gala without the support of Arts Council England, photography support from Carl Joyce and videography support by Zak Moore.