How a young musician is hoping to tackle social isolation through entertainment in South Tyneside

Jarrow singer, Daniel Curry is hoping to tackle social isolation with his new talent showcase.

Jarrow singer Daniel Curry, 12, set up his own open mic night in October to give young performers an opportunity to play live.

Held on the second Thursday of the month, Into the Spotlight invites singers, dancers, comedians and magicians of all ages to show off their talents and perform for an audience.

Following the success of the first event, which was held at Armstrong’s Bar in South Shields On Thursday, November 14, Daniel is set to take the showcase on the road visiting communities throughout the borough.

Daniel Curry (second left) with members of his band the North Strokes.

Daniel, who recently received a grant from the Chloe and Liam Together Forever Trust to work on his own material, joined North East band the North Strokes earlier this year.

It was then that he noticed a lack of venues willing to support young bands.

After dad Ian Curry shared a post on Facebook calling for performers they had an overwhelming response.

The first event saw acts from all over the region including Urban Flo Dance Academy, James Bassett, Katie Lei Chambers and members of the North Strokes.

Future performers are set to include dancers from Sarah Shaw’s School of Dance, Jen Steven's Community Choir and singers from the Customs House.

“Our opening event was a fantastic success, it’s really taken off,” said Ian.

“We would like to thank everyone who performed on the night.”

The father and son now want to use entertainment to help tackle social isolation and through the initiative will take acts to perform in care homes and for community groups and events in South Tyneside.

They are working alongside organisations such as Alzheimer's Society, Age UK, The Carers Association and South Tyneside Council’s Shared Lives scheme.

“We firmly believe in the therapeutic benefits of music for everyone,” Ian continued.

“For those people who can’t make it to Into the Spotlight we would like to offer the Into the Spotlight travelling roadshow, as a way of helping to reduce social isolation and offering access to entertainment for all.”

For more information contact Ian on 07758230834.

The next Into the Spotlight takes place on Thursday, December 13 at Armstrong’s Bar, 6pm-10pm.