The First Gigs x Mini Mercury Showcase shines a spotlight on the next generation of North East artists. Three selected musicians, aged 12 to 18, will perform at The Grove, gaining hands-on experience of a professional live show, from preparation and technical advancing through to soundcheck and performance, alongside venue staff and sound engineers.
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.
Public House Hi-Fi welcomes Tom Caulker, founder of Newcastle’s World Headquarters, for a two-part event tracing a life spent sharing music through records and his impact on Newcastle’s music culture. The afternoon begins with a seated listening session on the Public House Hi-Fi sound system, with Tom sharing records that shaped his career and the stories behind them. Residents Diz and Vinny Vins then play records they first heard Tom play and which influenced their own musical paths. At 6pm, the deck chairs clear and Tom takes control for a five-hour, all-evening set. Lineup: Tom Caulker - Diz Jockey - Vinny Vins
Hosted by Generators Young Ambassadors - Join us at Zerox' Vinyl Lounge for an evening of networking, conversation and music. Hear from platinum-selling producer Thom Lewis (AKA Bramwell Bronte), BBC Introducing's Shakk Hashemi, creative strategist Meg Savage, and rising artist Charlie Floyd as they share honest insights into breaking into the music industry and building a career from the North East. Throughout the evening, we will also be playing an extensive playlist of fantastic local artists. This event is a chance for North East creatives to connect with like-minded music professionals and artists, meet new collaborators, or simply enjoy the music. Guest Speakers: Thom Lewis, Shakk Hashemi, Meg Savage, Charlie Floyd
Tyne & Queer present a special double-headliner event featuring BONG II and THRAA, with support from GREET. Expect a night of expansive, heavy and atmospheric sounds from three distinctive acts. Lineup: BONG II – THRAA – GREET
