Full line-up revealed for new Tyneside pop-up mini-festival

The Caper will take over The Baltic on Gateshead Quayside

Stu Collingwood
Author: Micky WelchPublished 9th Jun 2023

There's just one week to go now before The Caper takes over one of the region's most iconic venues for an all-encompassing evening of music, food and comedy.

Organisers of the much loved pop-up event have now revealed that a mouth-watering array of North East culinary greats will join the party.

Celebrated for offering guests the “ultimate rolling night out” having successfully hosted past events at Grainger Market in Newcastle, the gathering will now welcome North East-based super chefs David Kennedy and John Connell to the bill, alongside next generation foodie stars Billy Thomas (Greekster) and Yasmin Alganzoury (Layla’s Kitchen).

The Caper - set to take place on Friday 16th June at its new permanent home of Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art on Gateshead's Quayside - is becoming renowned for its unique celebration of North East culture, and is delighted to present the final part of the line-up for the eagerly anticipated get-together.

The newly appointed NUFC Chairman’s Suite Chef, David Kennedy (Grosvenor House, Park Lane, The Halkin, at Belgravia London, 21 Queen Street and The Apartment) famed for his trademark, full flavour traditional British dishes will be on hand to satisfy the taste buds, while also offering an array of super decadent sweet treats, matched perfectly to the cocktails being served at The Caper's newly formed “Chill Out Zone.”

Cortney Dixon

Meanwhile, the Marc Pierre White-trained New Zealander and former NE Chef of The Year John Connell, is poised to deliver an array of Asian fusion dishes such as the delectable Maguro Yukke with fresh tuna as well marinated grilled beef Bulgogi.

And in the high-rising emerging star corner, Middle Eastern vegan and vegetarian wonders complete with beautifully texted stuffed bell peppers and tabbouleh salad will be expertly crafted from Egyptian wonder-chef Yasmin, of Layla’s Kitchen, Jesmond.

And for those pining for this summer’s Greek holiday, guests can get in the mood with Billy Thomas AKA Greekster's pork skewers and homemade tzatziki, ensuring an evening that satisfies the most diverse of palates.

SISI

Speaking ahead of today's announcement, organiser Sean Bullick, said: “Our four amazing chefs will be using Baltic’s newly refurbished professional kitchens to produce some of the best and most innovative food the North East has to offer, available across five floors.

“And, if you’ve got any room after all that, don’t forget to get your share of music, dancing, comedy, cinema, video games, live art, and incredible designer and vintage stalls! What's not to love?

“All in night, all under one room! Let’s Caper@Baltic, a mini-festival takeover of Baltic. See you there!”

As well as top-quality food served by the region’s best chefs and five great bars serving everything from local beers to cool cocktails, each Caper has its own individual programme of entertainment, showcasing a whole range of local talent.

DJ Beaujack

The first Caper at Baltic will also feature sets by the sublime Sisi, Cortney Dixon and her amazing band, and the acclaimed, soulful, outfit Moon Wax, all playing in the Front Room bar overlooking the Tyne.

The region’s best comedy, provided by host Catherine Young and Mike Milligan, Sascha Lo, and Howka Charvaz will be offering up the laughs in Baltic Kitchen.

And across all five floors there will also be music provided by DJ BeauJack, salsa dance lessons with Brazilian superstar Andre Viana, and fantastic live art from the likes of local hero Alfie Joey, vintage stalls, as well as some slightly left-field films.

One of the region's most promising music stars, Cortney Dixon added: “I'm so looking forward to my first Caper! You can expect upbeat, fun tunes with guitar riffs and catchy melodies so you can sing along in no time.

“It’s great that The Caper is bringing together lots of different genres of local music as well as championing local food and comedy.”

Final tickets for Let's Caper @ Baltic are on sale now priced at just £15.00 plus booking fee.

Tickets are available via www.thecaper.co.uk and www.baltic.art

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