6 May 2026

Scott Tyrrell

Scott Tyrrell is an award-winning performance poet, comedian, and creative director based in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Known for his sharp, self-deprecating wit and poignant social observations, he became a staple of the UK spoken word scene. His work often explores themes of fatherhood, masculinity, and his deep-rooted connection to North East England, exemplified by his widely celebrated poem "Round Here," which was buried in a time capsule under Northumberland Street in 2025 to be unearthed in 50 years.

A seasoned performer since the turn of the century, Tyrrell is a former BBC Edinburgh Fringe Slam Champion (2015) and a UK Anti-Slam winner. He is a frequent guest at major festivals, including Glastonbury, the Edinburgh Fringe, and WOMAD.

His most recent collection, Honest (published by Burning Eye Books), has been described as a "mid-life revelation" filled with warmth, "dad jokes," and frank openness.

Beyond the page, he has written for ITV, Sky Atlantic, and BBC Radio 4's The Verb.

Outside of poetry, Tyrrell is a professional illustrator and animator. He is well-known for his live illustrations of festival performances and his creative project mapping the UK spoken word scene through poet portraits.

Scott was on BBC Radio Tees recently, talking with Emma Millen.
Animator, designer and poet, Scott Tyrrell chats to Emma Millen.

Sturdy Beggars

We are delighted to welcome back the wonderful musicians and singers, Sturdy Beggars.

This lively folk group from Upper Coquetdale have been friends and neighbours for over 20 years. They have developed a varied repertoire of traditional songs and tunes ranging from the 15th Century to the newly composed and explore some of the amusing and arcane corners of history.

With four voices, fiddle, recorders, medieval drums and guitar, the Sturdy Beggars (a reference back to the Elizabethan Poor Laws) present an ear-catching blend of intriguing, uplifting and beautiful harmonies.

Their infectious enthusiasm allied to their singing and instrumental skills ensure an enjoyable and involving performance.