Announced back in October, the Town Of Culture competition would give additional funds to smaller areas which can not apply for City Of Culture status.
Applications for the titles opened on Wednesday, January 14 with three finalists to be named - one small, one medium and one large town, based on population.
The winner will be crowned UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive a £3 million prize. The two runners-up will each receive £250,000 to deliver elements of their bid, from refreshed community infrastructure to music festivals.
A statement from North Tyneside Council last month said: “Work has begun on an Expression of Interest to put North Shields in the running for UK Town of Culture 2028.”
With that in mind, these are some of the top venues for live art across North Tyneside for music, theatre and other arts.
. The North Tyneside coast
While the city itself doesn't claim a coastline, the Metro makes some of the best beaches in the country easily accessible. The full stretch from the North Shields Fish Quay to St Mary's Lighthouse is a stunning area. | Blue Flag
1. North Shields is bidding to become the 2028 Town Of Culture.
North Shields is bidding to become the 2028 Town Of Culture. | North Tyneside Council Photo: North Tyneside Council
2. Whitley Bay Playhouse
Photo: Jane Coltman
3. The Exchange
Michael Bailey
