Welcome to the wonderful world of the award-winning* Between the Tides festival, a free outdoor festival for children, young people and families. Once again set in the beautiful grounds of Kirkleatham, this year’s festival expands even further—transforming the historic village and walled garden into a vibrant world of theatre, puppetry, circus, dance, storytelling and live music. *the festival won Best Event of the Year at last year’s North East Cultural Awards.
This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, with magical woodland adventures. Expect all the favourite highlights from last year—the big bubble foam finale, party animal woodland disco, interactive chalk walk, and fantastical walkabout characters—alongside an incredible line‑up of shows suitable for all ages.
As well as mesmerising performances, there are also playful installations, workshops, street food Pick and Mix Market, live music and walkabouts.
Festival Highlights include:
- Disorder of Knights – Tit for Tat. Thrilling juggling, comedy, and theatrical circus. And fire. Lots of fire!
- Up in the Sky – Autin Dance. Commissioned by Between the Tides and TeesDance, this is a joyful, high-impact aerial show performed on a striking 7-metre circular structure. Peer high up into the sky as six performers soar, spin and fly through a heartwarming story of belonging, adventure and home.
- Hydro Punk – Artizani. Taps, valves, pipes, pumps, sprays, and leaks come together to form a chaotic, yet playful water machine full of games and puzzles.
- The Ugly Bug Wingding – Enter Edem. A mesmerising jubilee for your eyes and ears! Enter a magical miniature world of enticing insects and colourful creatures on their way to an un-bee-lievable party!
- Luminarium – Architects of Air. A welcome return for this incredible light filled inflatable experience.
- Join the party animals forest take over – with a silent woodland disco, costumes to wear and a fabulous musical experience.
- Dive into The Big Bubble Bash. A highlight of last year’s festival, the foam party finale is the perfect messy end to a festival that is all about having fun.
