WSO feat JOE SOLO, SUE CONROY, GLAD TOWN GHOST, MISERABLE LES

Another fundraiser for our local foodbank.

May 2025 marked the tenth anniversary of the launch of “We Shall Overcome” by Joe Solo and Stephen Goodall (sadly deceased). The idea was in response to the Tories’ austerity agenda and the increasing reliance of its victims on foodbanks. Grass roots musicians, other artists and promoters quickly rallied round to put on events to help those less fortunate than ourselves. This was in the spirit of solidarity, rather than charity. We wanted to challenge the idea that the use of foodbanks should become the norm and to hold out a hand of support and solidarity to those affected. The movement was never meant to be political but we aimed to keep it going until we felt we were no longer needed. We assumed that would be when there was a change of government. Nationally, over 1500 events have taken place. At Toft House, we have run 14 WSO gigs since 2015.Over 700 people have attended the gigs and they have made exceedingly generous donations to allow us to pay well over £6000 to local foodbanks, clothing banks and other charities supporting homeless people. If that isn’t remarkable enough, get this: more than 70 local artists of all sorts of different genres have come forward, giving their time and enthusiasm to help the cause. I don’t even have to ask; they are there, asking to participate and then giving it their all.

I am delighted to introduce three fabulous local song writers to Toft House, all of whom have their hearts very much in the occasion. Don’t miss them!

You may also like the following events from Middlesbrough Little Theatre (MLT):

• Next month, 16th August, 07:30 pm, PETE MORTON "The Ghost of a Sailor" in Middlesbrough
• Next month, 23rd August, 07:30 pm, ENDA KENNY + SARA DENNIS in Middlesbrough
• Next month, 24th August, 07:30 pm, CLAIRE HAMILL BAND + ALISTAIR JAMES in Middlesbrough

Also check out other Nonprofit events in Middlesbrough, Arts events in Middlesbrough.