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NewsSeptember, 7 Mercury Prize Fringe Returns to Newcastle
The Mercury Prize Fringe is set to make a comeback in Newcastle from 15th to 22nd October 2026, with more than 30 events planned across nearly 30 venues. This week-long celebration runs alongside the main 2026 Mercury Prize Awards Show, scheduled for 22nd October at the Utilita Arena. Organised by Newcastle City Council and the BPI, with programming by Northern music agency Generator, the Fringe aims to showcase North East talent through live shows, workshops, listening parties, and industry panels. Highlights include a screening of Sam Fender's 2025 London Stadium concert at the Tyneside Cinema on 17th October, followed by a panel discussion on his artistic journey. That same day, Tommy Caulker, founder of World Headquarters, will host an event at Public House HiFi, while acoustic performances take place at Grainger Market. Youth-focused activities are a key part of the programme. On 18th October, 'Mini Mercury x First Gigs' at The Grove offers musicians aged 12–18 a chance to perform. The next day, BBC Introducing Live comes to The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, headlined by Sunderland artist Tom A. Smith. Shortlisted group Knats will also hold a homecoming listening party and discussion at the John Marley Centre on 20th October. Generator will host a free industry conference at the Crowne Plaza on 21st October, featuring 14 sessions on topics like audience development, songwriting, and music careers, including one led by BBC Introducing hosts Shakk Hashemi and Kelly Betts. Adam MacDonald, Project Manager at Generator, said: "Last year, we headed into the unknown with the creation of the first-ever Mercury Fringe, and the response from music lovers and the wider music industry across the North East completely blew us away. This year we’ve taken that energy and built on it." Dr Jo Twist OBE, CEO of the BPI, added: "Newcastle is a true music city, and we’re grateful to its incredible music ecosystem for welcoming the Mercury Prize." Full event details and ticketing information are available via generator.org.uk/mercuryprizefringe.
Photo: Music-News |
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