As part of the Mercury Prize celebrations, a cohort of young people will come together to plan, produce and deliver their own live gig, gaining hands-on experience of what it takes to bring a live event to life. From artist liaison and advancing to production, programming, promotion and everything in between, the cohort will be involved throughout the process, developing practical skills and insight into the live music industry. The programme is being delivered with the support of Notion Live Events, who will work alongside the cohort to share their expertise, guidance and experience, helping the next generation of live event professionals build the skills and confidence to deliver their own shows. Lineup: Nano Kino
Celebrate Mercury Prize Fringe week with an after-hours takeover of Fenwick’s Food Hall. Expect an evening where exceptional food meets the city’s music energy, with live artists and a DJ soundtracking the night. Across the Food Hall, restaurants will be serving à la carte menus, alongside a selection of dishes created especially for Mercury week (line-up and menus to be revealed). Whether you’re joining for a late supper, a toast with friends, or to soak up the atmosphere between Fringe events, this is your invitation to experience Fenwick after dark - vibrant, atmospheric, and unmistakably Newcastle. Follow Fenwick Instagram for more info.
As an Official Partner of the 2026 Mercury Prize, Freight Island hosts a Mercury Prize edition of Playing Out, giving emerging talent the chance to perform alongside more established names and reach new audiences. Expect live sets and artist conversations spotlighting the artists shaping music in the North right now.
EMI North presents some of the best emerging talent from across the North of the UK. Headlined by Glasgow alt-rockers walt disco, hot on the heels of their new self-titled album, with additional special guest performances from artists across EMI North’s partner labels. Proudly promoted with Notion Live Events. Lineup: walt disco
Ancient Infinity Orchestra is a gathering of voices, traditions and energies converging into something timeless. Hailing from Leeds, the 16-member ensemble, led by double bassist and composer Ozzy Moysey, brings together double basses, harp, saxophones, clarinets, strings, woodwind, mandolin, piano and percussion, with bells and shakers ready for members to use whenever the spirit takes them. Their music is a journey inward and outward, always reaching toward the universal. Support comes from Cobalt resident Weston with a jazz-inspired DJ set. Lineup: Ancient Infinity Orchestra – Weston (DJ)
