Celebrating creativity, community AND culture in County Durham
As the year comes to an end, we’re marking the amazing progress that’s been made and celebrating what we’re achieved together. From new commissions to national acclaim, the Into the Light programme has been supporting creatives, strengthening communities, and shining a light on County Durham’s cultural identity.
In our opening year, Into the Light has:
Supported almost 600 creative practitioners and freelancers with new commissions, training and career development.
Reached over 7,000 participants through workshops, performances and hands-on creative activity.
Welcomed more than 14,000 audience members to events across the county.
Achieved a digital reach of 34,000+, helping to showcase County Durham’s cultural leadership on a national stage.
These numbers tell one story: culture is a powerful driver of growth, opportunity and wellbeing – and County Durham is leading the way.
“These numbers make clear how Into the Light is shining a light on County Durham’s unique and thriving cultural identity. We are supporting creatives and heritage professionals across our county, with our programme bringing celebration and opportunity to residents, creatives and visitors alike.”
Artists from the Durham Creative Community Fellows programme.
“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story Investment in programmes such as Into the Light is a key part of our commitment to supporting the county’s cultural infrastructure and ensuring our creative industries and local talent can flourish.
“The programme is already making a tangible difference to creative professionals and organisations, while also driving impact in our communities and supporting civic pride and community vibrancy for those who live, work and study in Durham. In turn, all of this is helping to supercharge our economy.
“It’s fantastic to see the results in black and white, and I can’t wait to see what the next couple of years of Into the Light will bring.”
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Year one highlights include ‘Nana’s House’, a striking exhibition by local visual artist Ruth Flowers, delivered with Peterlee-based Into the Light creative delivery partner No More Nowt.
Ruth Flowers, said:
“As a creative working in County Durham, I firmly believe in the power of culture to strengthen communities, break down career barriers and bring economic opportunities.
“Programmes like Into the Light have been vital in bringing commissions and opportunities for artists and creatives like me, helping put our county on the cultural map and boost pride in our region.”
Ensemble ‘84, the award-winning theatre company based in Horden, debuted two productions this year following its 6-month, paid training programme for people across County Durham to train as professional actors, thanks to the Into the Light programme. ‘Pits, People and Players’, a new production marking Horden’s 125th anniversary, drew on research, testimony and lived experience from local people, exploring the area’s rich and varied history.
The production company has also staged Lee Hall’s (Billy Elliot, Rocketman) adaptation of Bertolt Brecht’s 1939 play, ‘Mother Courage and Her Children.’ The play garnered 4-star reviews from The Guardian, The Times and The Stage, with its all-County Durham cast performing alongside South Africa’s Isango Ensemble.
Both Ruth Flowers and Ensemble 84 were nominated for North East Culture Awards this year, with Ensemble ‘84 taking home three on the night.
Looking ahead – continuing to grow in 2026
Launching a new wave of creative commissions
Community projects to get involved in
Expanding skills, training and workforce development
Working with leading researcher Dr Alison Whelan at Durham University to develop recommendations for sustainable approaches to culture that foster placemaking and regeneration.
Into the Light is funded by Durham County Council, the National Lottery through Arts Council England, and the UK Government through the Shared Prosperity Fund. The programme continues to demonstrate how culture is central to County Durham’s future as a thriving place to live, work, and visit.
If you’re a creative working in County Durham, or looking for opportunities, keep an eye on our channels and sign up to join our creative community. There’s lots to look forward to!
Thank you for being part of our story!