Historic Sting gig is beamed across the globe

Nov 26 2009 by Joanne Butcher, The Journal

TYNESIDE-BORN rock star Sting’s homecoming gig in the North East is set to be aired to audiences across the globe.

The former Police frontman premiered his new album last month in a spectacular concert at Durham Cathedral.

And now a recording of the music and light show will be broadcast on primetime American TV.

The news comes as a huge boost to Durham’s City for Culture bid and organisers are celebrating the opportunity to show off one of the jewels in the North East’s crown to the world.

Sting, who was born in Wallsend, performed alongside 35 classical and traditional musicians – including renowned Northumbrian piper Kathryn Tickell – for the concert.

It was the first time Sting’s new album of folk and traditional music, If On Winter’s Night, had been played live and was a strictly invitation-only affair.

Durham Cathedral’s dean and chapter specially agreed to allow the performances to be recorded.

Anne Heywood, chapter steward at Durham Cathedral, said: “We were absolutely delighted to welcome Sting to the Cathedral to record his quite spectacular concert and light show.

“We recognised that this was a wonderful opportunity to showcase Durham and the Cathedral to a worldwide television audience of hundreds of millions and we hope that it will persuade people to come and visit us in person in the future.”