BBC Proms will make its debut at Middlesbrough Town Hall this summer in a “landmark moment” for music in the town.
The BBC Proms in North East returns in 2026 with its biggest regional programme yet, spanning Middlesbrough, The Glasshouse in Gateshead and The Fire Station in Sunderland.
The festival opens at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Thursday July 23 with a collaboration between Royal Northern Sinfonia and The Unthanks and special guests, conducted by Ellie Slorach.
Mayor of Middlesbrough Chris Cooke said:
“Middlesbrough is thrilled to play host to the BBC Proms.
“The momentum is building for what is shaping up to be an exciting year of culture in Middlesbrough as we bid to become the UK Capital of Culture 2029.
“We are delighted to be able to welcome visitors to our incredible Town Hall for what will be a wonderful celebration of music.”
Kesia Bruce, General Manager, Middlesbrough Town Hall said:
“We are 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.
“We’re proud to be part of such a world-renowned celebration of music, and we look forward to welcoming audiences to experience an unforgettable evening of live music.”
The 2026 programme spans three days of music across the region, bringing together established artists, new collaborations and emerging artists.
The Town Hall’s performance is built around the unmistakable voices of Tyneside sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank, whose work blends storytelling and harmony with a wider musical palette, shaped by bandleader and composer Adrian McNally.
The performance will be recorded for future broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and is supported by Tees Valley Combined Authority.
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.”
The Proms’ commitment to future talent continues with free BBC Young Composer workshops on Thursday 23 July at myplace in Middlesbrough.
Designed for 12 to 18-year-olds making their own music in any style or genre, the sessions offer a space to build confidence, try out new ideas and develop original work with support from experienced composers and musicians.
Accessibility remains a defining principle of BBC Proms in the North East. Tickets will once again be available from £8 to welcome audiences who may be experiencing live orchestral music for the first time.
You can buy tickets from the Town Hall Box Office website by clicking here.
Activity in Sunderland and Middlesbrough plays a vital role in reaching new communities and widening access across the region.
Sam Jackson, Controller, BBC Radio 3 and BBC Proms, said: “I’m delighted to be returning to the North East of England for another residency as part of BBC Proms across the UK.
“Audiences can expect a programme packed with musical gems performed by local and international artists, with every note broadcast on Radio 3.
“The Proms was founded on the belief that everyone should have access to the very best classical music, and our residencies this year in the North East and Bristol, as well as a one-off concert in Mold, North Wales, will reach audiences on their own doorsteps.”
