Built on the Songs of the Tees

Box Office

Built on the Songs of The Tees:
An Evening with Mike 'Wildcat' McGrother

This evening is brought to you in association with Big Mouth Productions, Blind Tiger and Electricity.

Join Teesside’s very own musical maverick for an intimate one-off evening celebrating the spirit, soul and stories of our region. Known for his electrifying performances with The Wildcats of Kilkenny, Mike now offers a rare glimpse into his more reflective side - without losing the razor-sharp wit and heartfelt storytelling that have endeared him to Teesside audiences for over the past three decades.

Armed with his guitar, violin, and a stripped-down acoustic band, Mike presents a unique three-part musical trilogy that’s rich in character, heritage, and heart:

Part 1: The Speakeasy (7:30pm - 8:10pm)

Step into the ‘pub’ with Mike as he shares self-penned songs inspired by the 'extra-ordinary' Teessiders he’s met over a pint - strangers turned friends who’ve sparked a songwriting journey. From the enigmatic Joe Hall and beloved community icon Tony Robinson to a human cannonball, a candlemaker and more unforgettable characters, this segment promises laughter, tears, tales and more than a few surprises.

Part 2: When the Tide Turns (8:25pm - 9:05pm)

A deeply personal homage to Mike’s ‘musical dad’ and much missed Teesside Troubadour, Vin Garbutt. Since Vin’s passing in 2017, Mike has kept his legacy alive, with the help of the Garbutt family through tribute projects like The Gathering (which launched the Vin’s Way walk), online performances and even a streamed Mass from St Mary’s Cathedral. This set features heartfelt renditions of Vin’s best-loved songs, keeping alive the voice and vision of a true folk legend.

Part 3: Infant Hercules - Forever Young (9:20pm - 10:00pm)

What began in 2013 as a bit of an experiment has grown into a Teesside institution. With over 100 members and performances across the region, male choir Infant Hercules sing to raise awareness for men’s mental health, The Samaritans and more under the rallying cry ‘If we can sing about it, you can talk about it’. Expect powerful voices, raw emotion, and a rousing finale as the choir - and some surprise guests - join Mike on stage to close the night with pride, passion, purpose and a heck of an epic sound.