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Community spirit shines at street theatre festival

Joanna MorrisBBC News
News imageStockton Borough Council A child looks shocked as a banana "microphone" is held above his head.Stockton Borough Council
Children enjoyed performances throughout the weekend

Performers from across the world have taken part in a weekend of street theatre.

Thousands of people visited the annual Stockton International Riverside Festival.

It was launched on Friday with the UK's first performance of Mecanique Vivante's The Sirens' Song for 35 years, which has an orchestra made up of repurposed air raid sirens.

The free festival, which aimed to "create a magical and unmissable experience", culminated with a colourful community carnival weaving through the streets on Sunday.

News imageStockton Borough Council A man plays an instrument crafted from repurposed air raid sirens.Stockton Borough Council
The "world's only Siren orchestra" travelled around Stockton's high street before joining soloists and performers to launch the event
News imageStockton Borough Council Performers balance on wooden poles in front of a crowd.Stockton Borough Council
Crowds gathered to enjoy street theatre, dance, music and arts performances

Stockton Borough Council cabinet member Steve Nelson described the three-day event as "wonderful" and said feedback from visitors was positive.

"The festival continues to be a wonderful example of how diverse communities can come together to enjoy amazing outdoor entertainment, peacefully and with big smiles on their faces," he said.

News imageStockton Borough Council People, some in wheelchairs, dressed in colourful clothing and carrying flags.Stockton Borough Council
Hundreds took part in the SIRF Community Carnival
News imageStockton Borough Council Children dressed as colourful stars dance on the high street.Stockton Borough Council
Stockton councillor Steve Nelson said the event provided an opportunity to bring communities together
News imageStockton Borough Council A girl dressed as a bee mid-performance.Stockton Borough Council
SIRF has drawn crowds to Stockton since the late 1980s

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