As Middlesborough sets out to reinvent itself in the wake of industrial decline, three artists talk about the inspiration they find there - and why the town deserves better press.
One of acclaimed scriptwriter Ishy Din's next projects is a stage musical about the fortunes of his home town, beginning when Middlesbrough rapidly expanded during the industrial revolution.
"Sometimes we get a hard time," he says. "We're consistently at the top of lists. Bad lists. Worst place to live. Worst place to be a girl. Health. Employment. Education. And I think that's unfair."
His musical, Iron and Steel, will show a different view. He's creating it with actress and producer Victoria Gibson - daughter of Middlesbrough FC chairman Steve - as well as local folk group Cattle & Cane and singer-songwriter Alistair Griffin.
Having a creative career in Middlesbrough has its pros and cons, according to Din, who is also currently working on a play for the Royal Shakespeare Company and has written for Channel 4's Ackley Bridge... Keep reading on the BBC
One of acclaimed scriptwriter Ishy Din's next projects is a stage musical about the fortunes of his home town, beginning when Middlesbrough rapidly expanded during the industrial revolution.
"Sometimes we get a hard time," he says. "We're consistently at the top of lists. Bad lists. Worst place to live. Worst place to be a girl. Health. Employment. Education. And I think that's unfair."
His musical, Iron and Steel, will show a different view. He's creating it with actress and producer Victoria Gibson - daughter of Middlesbrough FC chairman Steve - as well as local folk group Cattle & Cane and singer-songwriter Alistair Griffin.
Having a creative career in Middlesbrough has its pros and cons, according to Din, who is also currently working on a play for the Royal Shakespeare Company and has written for Channel 4's Ackley Bridge... Keep reading on the BBC