Site for Orange WOW Grows in 2002

Changes for 2002
Following the now legendary success of Orange WOW 2001 last May and record audiences some new developments are being planned.
A new arena and main stage on the river side with an audience capacity somewhere between 15,000 and 20,000 with plans for an eclectic programme of music from dance & pop to World, Jazz, Rock and Roots.
A bigger arena for World & Roots music at the Ice House allowing audiences up to 8,000.
Emerging Talent will be on offer at The Dolphin Stage mixing up the best new singer songwriters with some Delta Blues from old hands like The Spike Drivers, good time rock and roll and lots of real guitars!
The Jumpin'Hot Club Stage is growing and moves to an open air stage in the grassy setting of Northumberland Park allowing more room to chill out, picnic and enjoy the programme of Blues, Soul, Cajun and New Country. The performance by the Handsome Family in May 2001 was so well received we may be taking the plunge into more 'Alternative Country' sounds next festival.
A global restaurant, bars and food court will take over the centre of the riverside site with plenty of seating and tables where visitors can enjoy international tastes from good old local fish and chips to Japanese noodles, Mexican wraps and the now traditional 'Guinness & Oysters'.
Craft markets and exhibitions will be clustered around the harbour area and Union Quay while street theatre will make a comeback on the quayside. Already The Primitives 'Wash It' Show looks like a sure-fire winner.

After listening to your ideas we will be bringing many more facilities on site with better toilets and seating.
The festival Fairground makes a move to the centre of the town to Norfolk Street and the children's village makes a comeback in 2002. Centered on Northumberland Square there will be a host of participatory workshops, face painting, hair braiding, crafts and music. The old favourite bouncy castles will be there along with a myriad of clowns, magicians, storytellers and street entertainers.

In addition it is hoped that more North Shields town venues will become a key part of the growing festival fringe.

• article submitted by: Carol Alevroyianni, Orange WOW