Special screening (feat. new footage), Q&A.

We’re delighted to welcome NORTH Wrestling to the Star & Shadow for a special screening of WATCH THE LIGHTS, a thrilling, funny and surprisingly touching documentary exploring the wild world of independent professional wrestling in the North East.

The special screening will include new footage shot during this year's Thunderstruck!

The screening will be followed by a Q&A with the director Alex Ayre and North Wrestling founder Andrew Bowers, offering a chance to hear more about the film and the people behind NORTH Wrestling.

Filmed during the summer of 2023, WATCH THE LIGHTS follows NORTH Wrestling founder Andrew Bowers and his dedicated crew as they prepare for their most ambitious event yet: THUNDERSTRUCK at Newcastle’s Walker Activity Dome.

From intimate brewery venues to their biggest show ever, the documentary takes audiences behind the scenes to reveal the passion, hard work, chaos and camaraderie involved in bringing professional wrestling to life.

Directed by North East filmmaker Alex Ayre, WATCH THE LIGHTS is both an entertaining glimpse into the extraordinary world of independent wrestling and a heartfelt love letter to the people who make it possible.

Whether you’re a lifelong wrestling fan or completely new to the spectacle, this is a story about creativity, community and a group of passionate people determined to make something special happen.

As director Alex Ayre puts it:

“It’s a thrilling and characterful venture behind the scenes in the wild world of independent wrestling. But more than that, it’s a really touching journey of a group of passionate creatives striving to succeed in their own whacky medium.”

Join us for a celebration of independent wrestling, local filmmaking and the people who make both possible.