The Magic of Motown on stage at the end of their performance at the Empire
When Berry Gordy took out that famous 800 dollar loan to start Tamla Records in 1959 he couldn’t have dreamt that 60 odd years later the music he created would still be moving audiences all of the world, but here we were on a rain-swept Wednesday night in Liverpool listening to his greatest music and the Motown legacy carries on.
This year three of Motown’s all-time greats, Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie and Stevie Wonder have been performing in the UK, and for those who couldn’t make it to watch one of their shows, The Magic of Motown covered music by all three, and more.
The show opened with the band playing the opening bars of Please Mr Postman by the Marvelettes. This was their debut single and the first Motown song to reach number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 pop singles in 1961. The first of seemingly endless Motown number 1’s in the US, the UK and across the world, From the moment that the familiar lyrics ‘oh yes, wait a minute Mr Postman. Wait ,wait Mr. Postman’ rang out in the darkened auditorium the audience started partying. The Liverpool audience were up for a good time last night and the singers on stage, backed by an excellent band, didn’t disappoint
They roared through a cracking set list of songs from all of Motown’s heavy hitters; The Supremes, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Isley Brothers, Smokie Robinson, Lionel Ritchie, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Marvelettes, Martha & the Vandellas and The Jackson 5.
The show contained fantastic lead and backing vocals, wonderful music, aided by multiple costume changes, mixed all girl and all boy sets, with the occasional duet or single piece. The singers were exceptional all night, with only the occasional over-emoting on the outro hitting a flat note with me.
Highlights of the show included:
‘Sugar Pie Honey Bunch’ and ‘Reach Out’ by the Four Tops
‘Just my Imagination’ and ‘My Girl’ by the Temptations
Stevie Wonder’s ‘Sir Duke’ and ‘Superstition’
Marvin Gaye, with and without Tammi Terrell on ‘You’re all I need to get by’ and ‘Heard it through the Grapevine’.
Smokie Robinson and the Miracles with ‘Shop Around’, and ‘Tears of a Clown’.
Diana Ross & the Supremes with ‘Baby Love’ and ‘Stop! In the name of love’.
Lionel Ritchie’s ‘All Night Long’ and ‘Dancing on the Ceiling’.
Jackson 5 with ‘Rockin’ Robin’ and ‘ABC’
‘Heatwave’ by Martha Reeves and the Vandellas.
‘Please Mr Postman’ by the Marvelettes.
At the interval the ‘Four Tops’ were mingling with the crowd in the bar during the interval drinks.
The second half of the show continued where the first half left off, with great music, call and response with the audience, and singing along to all the choruses. People were dancing in the seats and the aisles, if not the streets, and the girls from Queen Mary High School in front of us were on fine form singing and dancing along to Motown’s finest.
The singers were top-notch; no one would pretend that they measured up to Stevie, Marvin, Levi Stubbs, David Ruffin, Martha Reeves et al-but then who does?
At the end the singers asked if we’d like to have them back next year, and they got a resounding yes. The night finished with the cast of the show taking a selfie with the Empire audience in the background.
The Empire has already mailed to ask for feedback on the performance, so let’s hope they act on what we’ve fed back and book The Magic of Motown for 2026.
To find live music events happening in the Liverpool city region take a look at our What’s On Listings.
Future Yard is more than just a venue — it’s a movement. Based in the heart of Birkenhead, this trailblazing space combines live music, artist development, and environmental action to reshape what a grassroots venue can be.
Open seven days a week, it’s home to a bar, coffee shop, and a vibrant outdoor space. At its core is a 280-capacity live room that plays host to an exciting mix of local talent and acclaimed national and international acts.
Future Yard is also a creative hub — supporting emerging artists through development programmes and offering young people from the local area free access to training in the live music industry. Their long-term goal? To help shape the future of music in Birkenhead while becoming the UK’s first operational carbon net-zero grassroots venue.
Opening their doors fully to the music-loving public in the spring of 2021, Future Yard is a community venue bringing some of today’s most exciting artists to the Wirral, with a full programme of events throughout the year.
Past performers include legendary names like Kraftwerk’s Wolfgang Flür, The Coral, Doves, Gruff Rhys, and Beans on Toast.
Each year the venue also hosts Future Now — a genre-spanning festival dedicated to musical discovery. The fifth instalment of Future Now returns for the August Bank Holiday. The 2025 edition will feature trailblazers like Los Bitchos and Pussy Riot: Riot Days, cementing the festival’s reputation as a must-attend event.
Beyond gigs, Future Yard also offers vinyl markets, regular club nights, and the newly launched Birkenhead Craft Beer Festival, debuting July 2025.
Supporting the Next Generation
PROPELLER sits at the heart of Future Yard’s artist empowerment revolution. Every PROPELLER artist is partnered with an experienced professional mentor to provide support and a dedicated development plan. They also gain access to a rolling programme of workshops and masterclasses from leading music minds, building your knowledge. All this is based within a vibrant artist community, housed at Future Yard.
If you want to make music happen, you can also sign up to their mailing list, and you’ll hear the latest about Sound Check, their free-to-access live music industry training programme for young people.
Mosh Tots – Gigs For Kids
Mosh Tots is the hippest, hottest party in town! Sunday mornings at Future Yard are the place to be. Their gigs for kids (and well-behaved grown-ups!) series has been hugely popular since they launched.
Aimed at children aged 1-8, Mosh Tots is there to introduce young people to the rockin’ world of live music in a safe and fun environment. They believe that live music should be for everyone, no matter your age.
Future Yard Kitchen
The venue’s kitchen serves fresh vegan and veggie, Neapolitan-style pizzas made from locally sourced ingredients.Open on all live show days and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the kitchen complements the bar and coffee shop, which are open daily from 10 am.
Space To Relax
Whether you’re dropping by for a show or just fancy a quiet coffee, Future Yard’s garden offers a welcoming place to unwind. The outdoor space is open daily, providing a laid-back spot to enjoy pizza, drinks, or sunshine with friends. And if the weather doesn’t play ball, their bar and café inside offer the same chilled-out atmosphere.
Environmental Pledge
Alongside realising their creative vision, Future Yard have made major steps in Sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint. They are committed to a long-term goal of becoming operational net-zero by 2030 and fully net-zero by 2035. This will make the venue one of the first arts organisations to achieve this in the UK.
Working in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University’s Low Carbon Eco-Innovatory, they have been shaping the long-term design of the building, its energy consumption and developing a range of policies in how the venue operates to achieve this goal.
Discover What’s On At Future Yard
For all the latest events listings and happenings visit the Future Yard website.
As WoWFest mark their 25th anniversary, they reflect on the journey that has shaped Writing on the Wall since their first festival in June 2000. Founded on principles of social justice, they have always been a voice for change, a platform for truth, and a home for writers, artists, activists, and communities—from the Dingle to Dakota and beyond.
WoW’s roots lie in the Liverpool Dockers’ Lockout, and the resilience of those who fought back then is imprinted on their DNA. Against the backdrop of today’s global challenges, they believe writers and artists are vital voices for hope and change.
Balancing entertainment and activism, they have driven positive change—publishing over 500 writers in the past decade alone and paving the way for emerging talent through projects like Liverpool Young Writers and Pulp Idol.
Their 25th festival welcomes old friends and some first-time guests. Here are a selection of highlights for 2025:
Irvine Welsh, Rough Trade Liverpool (2 May)
To kick off the 25th anniversary celebrations, WoW are delighted to bring you Irvine Welsh, who paid them the greatest compliment, stating, “There isn’t another writing festival in England as good as Writing on the Wall.” Famed for his iconic novels, not least of all the ground-breaking Trainspotting, Irvine joins WoWFEST to discuss Resolution, the third of his novels featuring Ray Lennox.
A night with Irvine Welsh is always fun, a bit gritty, entertaining, and always gets you thinking. Irvine Welsh will be in conversation with author, visual artist and musician Zoë Howe. Join WoWFEST in welcoming back one of their earliest and most favourite WoW guests, Irvine Welsh, for the chance to get inside the mind of the man who created such iconic characters as Renton, Sick Boy, and Spud.
The Best Of Everything: Kit De Waal, Online (13 May)
Not only is Kit de Waal an incredibly talented writer and storyteller, she is also a champion for elevating the voices and opportunities for diverse, working class writers, putting her money where her mouth is by creating the Kit de Waal Creative Writing Scholarship to help improve working-class representation in the arts.
They welcome her back to WoWFEST for this online event discussing her latest novel, The Best of Everything, described by Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo as ‘A profoundly compassionate novel of devastating power’.
Levi Tafari, Victoria Gallery and Museum (9 May)
Levi Tafari is a renowned poet, performer, and educator whose work spans literature, music, and activism. Known for his powerful storytelling, Tafari’s poetry blends elements of reggae, Rastafari culture, and social commentary. His work has earned him widespread acclaim, as he consistently seeks to inspire and uplift. Levi has performed around the world, captivating audiences along the way.
Levi has long been a member of the Writing on the Wall artistic community, working on such projects as From Great War to Race Riots, the Princes Boulevard Steps initiative and most recently in the re-opening for Spellow Library. Levi will perform from his powerful new collection, Being Human, a celebration of the human spirit.
Liverpool Rising Against Racism, St George’s Hall (17 May)
Come together for an unforgettable night of music and spoken word, celebrating diversity and Liverpool Rising Against Racism in one of Liverpool’s most iconic venues.
Hip-hop legend Skinnyman, who returns to the city in a show of solidarity, will be joined by a blistering line-up of Liverpool talent, including rapper Blue Saint, Yemeni Scouse poet Amina Atiq, and rising stars Sam Millne & the Virants, with more exciting names to be announced.
Expect big beats and rhymes, unforgettable performances, and an excellent vibe. The night will kick off with a spectacular outdoor performance by the Batala drummers at the North Entrance to the hall.
The Singh Twins, Museum Of Liverpool (18 May)
WoW are hosting the Liverpool launch ofThe Singh Twins‘ latest book, Slaves of Fashion: Art of the Singh Twins – Personal Reflections on Hidden Stories of Empire, Colonialism, and Their Legacies.
This richly illustrated, artist-designed book, showcases Slaves of Fashion, an award-winning series of portrait-based allegorical and narrative works by contemporary British artists The Singh Twins. Slaves of Fashion explores diverse histories and legacies of empire and colonialism through the history of Indian textiles. It is a global story of conflict, conquest, exploitation, slavery, intercultural exchange, and changing fashion.
Absurageddon: Armando Iannucci, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall (22 May)
WoWFEST welcomes Armando Iannucci, a towering figure of British storytelling and satire, to seek answers to the question — can laughter still challenge authority, expose hypocrisy, and spark change — or has the joke already worn thin?
Armando Iannucci, creator of iconic TV and film, including The Thick of It, Veep, In the Loop, and The Death of Stalin, has spent decades turning political dysfunction into brutal, brilliant comedy. With a signature blend of intelligence and irreverence, Iannucci has held a mirror to power, exposing its absurdities with scalpel-sharp precision.
From Spellow to Southport…with Love, The Isla Gladstone Conservatory (28 May)
From Spellow to Southport…with Love is a special family-friendly event featuring three of the UK’s most celebrated poets and performers—Michael Rosen, Jackie Kay, Jordan Stephens, and Beth Suzanna. Join Jordan and Beth for a captivating and interactive storytelling adventure to discover the wonders of the natural world! This day of creativity, storytelling, and poetry aims to promote unity, diversity, and resilience.
The tragic murders of young girls in Southport and the racist riots that followed, resulting in major fire damage to Spellow Library, deeply affected communities across the region. While the library may be repaired, the community still needs healing. Writing on the Wall, in partnership with Culture Liverpool and Spellow Library, ran a series of free creative writing sessions called What’s Your Walton Story? for anyone who wanted to share their experience of living or working in the community. They will be celebrating these stories on the day and launching an anthology of work.
John Cooper Clarke, Everyman Theatre (30 May)
Making a welcome return to WoWFEST, Dr John Cooper Clarke, one of the most iconic poets of our time, whose seminal works, including Evidently Chickentown and (I Married a) Monster from Outer Space are as relevant and vibrant today as when they were first written.
His status as the Godfather of Punk Poetry is now firmly established as Dr John Cooper Clarke became the first-ever poet to headline an arena in the UK, with a sell-out performance at The Co-op arena in Manchester. You will not want to miss this unique evening of conversation and performance. The self-confessed nosy parker is hot off the back of his arena tour and the paperback release of his best-selling poetry collection, WHAT.
If you miss illustrious 70s Liverpool nightclubs Chequers, The Babalou, The Beachcomber, Ugly’s and Flintlocks, or just love 70s music and a good laugh – this one’s for you.
Feeling old after becoming a grandfather, cheeky, Scottie Road Scouser, Smigger (Andrew Schofield) escapes weekend babysitting to boogy on down to his favourite 70s disco when the realities of life do his head in. He’s wrecked.
This very funny, toe-tapping treat is the latest production in the popular, ‘Lost Soul’ series by plasterer turned successful playwright, Dave Kirby at Liverpool’s Art Deco, Grade II listed Royal Court Theatre – which offers a unique, cabaret-style, ‘Dining Experience’ option in the stalls. It has some matinees and is five minutes walk from Central – and Lime Street Station for wooly backs!
Life’s gotten stale. Where did the years go? The 70s music heyday and Liverpool nightlife, gone faster than ‘Chicken in a Basket’.
Smigger misses attention and sexy play time with wife, Donna, (Lindzi Germain), who’s doting on her new grandson and not been up for their traditional over 40s Sunday pub night in town lately, let alone anything else.
So they ditch domesticity and do the hustle off to Pontins Prestatyn for a saucy weekend.
The cast of seven also includes their daughter, new mum Amy (Jennifer Hynes); her laddish, scally boyfriend, of sorts, Charlie (Michael Hawkins); family bessies, couple, Terry (Paul Duckworth) and Pat (Cath Rice) with hapless, young barman (Lenny Wood) watching the seniors strut their funky stuff at the weekly ‘Soul Train’ 70s night disco for oldies.
At Pontins, Donna is all poised in red negligee set. But hopes of any inventive, raunchy role play are soon dashed as Smigger’s mucked up the packing.
Photo Credit: AB Photography
On stage, the rotating set returns us home where crazy antics continue to conspire. Smigger’s had enough. The eternal teenager loves his family, but he’s off to have some time away by himself. He goes to the Riviera – Guest House, that is. He wants to go on Love Island for the over 50s.
Meanwhile, back at the disco, there’s hot drama and uncool dancing – with a comedic, clapalong performance on the dance floor when the barman has a go – more Morris than Motown!
In the house, Donna tanks up on paracetamol to cope without her wayward ‘Peter Pan’ husband and a madcap plan is hatched to hopefully reunite the devoted pair – always and forever.
With its 70s Liverpool nightlife nostalgia, catchy soul soundtrack, strong language, goofy gags and puns and indigenous one-liners, we smile in the face of the angst of love, life and loss.
A dab of pathos, and altered pace, doesn’t distract from the fun of the slapstick action – sharply, yet warmly directed by Bob Eaton – as we see Smigger comically lament the scary passing of 40-odd years at the speed of a disco inferno and the inevitability of having to let the music play.
As the script reveals through one hilarious altercation, just don’t ever mention the actor Alan Ladd to a Liverpool Lad. You’ll be there all day!
September in Liverpool and the city region is packed with a vibrant mix of cultural events. From interactive art exhibitions and a Latin American festival to powerful theatre performances and jazz concerts, there are plenty of things to do in Liverpool and the city region this month.
Highlights include the return of BlackFest, celebrating Black arts with an exciting lineup, and the Neurodiversity Arts Festival, showcasing neurodivergent creativity. Music lovers can look forward to an evening with songwriter Guy Chambers and a special jazz performance by Shez Raja. Whether you’re into art, music, or theatre, Liverpool has an array of events to explore this September.
Things To Do In Liverpool & The City Region This September
1. Art Plays Games (5 September – 27 April ’25)
FACT has transformed their upstairs gallery into a new space dedicated to showcasing artists’ games and works made using AI technologies. Fun, playful and suitable for gamers and non-gamers of all ages, Art Plays Games looks at how artists are increasingly using games as a way to challenge conventional forms of storytelling and offer us new ways to make sense of the world today. Whether you’re a fan of interactive art exhibitions or looking for exciting things to do in Liverpool, Art Plays Games at FACT offers a fun and engaging experience for all ages.
2. La Feria (10 – 15 September)
La Feria Festival returns to Liverpool for an exciting and innovative programme of music, dance, theatre and street-arts from across the Latin Continent. A range of periphery events including storytelling, street arts and food and drink will also take place across the festival week, all exploring the beautiful and rich diversity of Latin American culture.
3. The Holly Johnson Story (14 September – 27 July ’25)
The Holly Johnson Story, at Museum of Liverpool, explores the incredible life of Holly Johnson and his meteoric rise to fame, where he became one of the first openly gay and openly HIV+ high profile artists in history. The opening of this exhibition also marks the 40th anniversary release of Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s album Welcome to the Pleasuredome featuring Relax, Two Tribes and The Power of Love. Supported by a £142,338 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, National Museums Liverpool has partnered with local arts organisations Homotopia and DuoVision in collaboration with Holly Johnson to deliver this landmark exhibition.
4. An Evening With Guy Chambers, Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room (18 September)
Join one of the UK’s most successful songwriters, Guy Chambers, for an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling. Known for his iconic hits with Robbie Williams, including Angels and Let Me Entertain You, Chambers will perform piano interpretations of his greatest songs and share anecdotes from his 40-year career. In a unique twist, an audience member will have the chance to join him on stage to write a song on the spot!
5. Who The F—k is Shakespeare, Unity Theatre (19-21 September)
Following a sell-out run, four of Shakespeare’s (in)famous characters are back for a national tour, ready to tell their side of the story. Join Who The F-k is Shakespeare as they blow the dust off the classics to stage a multi-art form political occupation of stories steeped in racism, patriarchy and violence.
6. Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act, The Atkinson (20 September)
Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act explores the iconic detective’s life after his final confrontation with Moriarty. Holmes reflects on his career, friendships, and the lingering mysteries that haunt him. Experience cross-examinations, heated arguments between Holmes and Watson, and interactions with many of Conan Doyle’s famous characters. As the play concludes, the great detective reveals a shocking secret.
7. Neurodiversity Arts Festival 2024 (20 – 29 September)
The Neurodiversity Arts Festival 2024 brings together all the major arts organisations in Liverpool to celebrate neurodivergent talent, diverse perspectives, and creative expression, transforming Liverpool into a hub of creativity. Supported by notable artists including Johnny Vegas and Ashleigh Nugent, the festival features art showcases, theatre, music, and comedy, all spotlighting neurodivergent creativity. Additionally, educational workshops and talks aim to increase understanding and accessibility.
As this is a charity initiative, they deeply appreciate any donations to help make this festival a success. Contributions will directly support the festival’s activities and the broader mission of The Brain Charity to provide emotional support, practical help, and social activities to those with neurological conditions. For those seeking unique things to do in Liverpool the Neurodiversity Arts Festival is a must-attend event that highlights diverse artistic expressions.
8. Shaun Ryder – Happy Mondays and Fridays and Saturdays and Sundays, St Helens Theatre Royal (22 September)
Happy Mondays and Black Grape frontman Shaun Ryder is hitting the road for a new, spoken word tour in support of his new book: Happy Mondays – and Fridays and Saturdays and Sundays. Fans can look forward to a carnival of excess, wild tales, and improbable truths, as they enjoy the talents of a unique rock’n’roll star dubbed Britpop’s answer to WB Yeats.
9. BlackFEST 2024 (23 September – 31 October)
BlackFest returns this Autumn, celebrating Black arts with a powerful lineup of 16 events, a visual arts exhibition, and a dynamic programme across Liverpool. The festival showcases Black artists in music, spoken word, theatre, and fashion. Highlights include a special House of Legends Jazz concert headlined by King Courtney Pine for his 60th birthday. BlackFest offers a platform to support and celebrate Black culture, with artists like Ash Nugent, Joe Taylor, and Pari Richards. This special ticket gets you access to all their events, where you can save over £50!
10. Future Yard + Milap present: Shez Raja
Milap are collaborating with Future Yard for the first time, to present virtuoso British-Asian bass player Shez Raja. Renowned for his high energy live shows and unique Indo-jazz-funk sound, Raja was voted one of the ‘Hottest Bass Players in the World’ by readers of Bass Player magazine. Shez will lead a stunning line-up that features sax sensation Vasilis Xenopoulos, Chris Jerome (Courtney Pine) on keys and rising drum star Jamie ‘Drumcat’ Murray.
With so many things to do in Liverpool and the city region this September, from art and theatre to music and cultural festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the city. To discover even more events happening in September check out our What’s On Listings.
Schools out for summer and we’ve picked out 10 things to do in the Liverpool city region in August. From art exhibitions and theatre performances to music festivals and creative workshops, there’s plenty to get excited about this August. Highlights include Brickworks at Tate Liverpool + RIBA North, where the humble brick is celebrated in a captivating display, and the poignant play I Am Steven Gerrard comes to the Royal Court Liverpool.
Art enthusiasts can explore Into The Wyld at Williamson Art Gallery, while Liverpool Cathedral hosts the groundbreaking exhibition Anish Kapoor: Monadic Singularity.
For those looking to get hands-on, Bluecoat and the Museum of Liverpool offer a range of creative workshops. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about bee conservation with Andrea Ku, or catch Pokey LaFarge’s live performance at the Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room. The month wraps up with the lively Future Now Festival in Birkenhead and a family-friendly adaptation of Rumpelstiltskin at The Atkinson.
Tate Liverpool – Brickworks. Credit Tamas St. Auby (Szentjoby)
1. Brickworks, Tate Liverpool + RIBA North (31 July – 12 Jan ’25)
The humble brick becomes the hero in Brickworks, a new display featuring works from the Tate collection at the gallery space at RIBA North, showcasing the transformative power of bricks in art.
Additionally, running alongside the Brickworks exhibition there will be free hands-on creative workshops for families of all ages with Arty-Texture. Explore the ‘Brickworks Den’ where you can fun constructing, building, cutting, gluing, tracing, stamping your own brick-inspired creations.
2. I Am Steven Gerrard, Royal Court Liverpool (1 – 3 August)
I Am Steven Gerrard is a story of football, aspiration, music, Steven Gerrard, loneliness, reality television, love, religion, friends, loss, passion, enemies, Davina McCall, politics, ambition, family, virginity, past generations – and the impact they leave behind.
3. Into The Wyld, Williamson Art Gallery (2 August – 21 December)
Material Matters presents Into the Wyld: a festival of contemporary art at the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum exploring the continuing legacy of the medieval poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and its unique connection to the Wirral. Into the Wyld also features work from over 20 invited artists across the region, plus an associated five month programme of performance art, poetry readings, children’s workshops, film screenings and a symposium.
4. Anish Kapoor: Monadic Singularity, Liverpool Cathedral (10 August – 15 September)
To celebrate its, Liverpool Cathedral will present an exciting, UK-first exhibition by the internationally acclaimed British-Indian sculptor Anish Kapoor. Kapoor is renowned for his iconic works, such as Cloud Gate in Chicago and the Orbit Tower at the Olympic Stadium in London. Monadic Singularity contemplates key moments in life: birth, marriage, and death, with the exhibition taking visitors on a journey through the Cathedral’s spaces, including a large-scale installation in the Well, a stunning reminder of our existence on Earth.
5. Creative Workshops At Bluecoat (Throughout August)
6. Craft At The Museum, Museum of Liverpool (9 – 15 August)
Museum of Liverpool will host two Craft at The Museum sessions this August with Liverpool Album Covers (9 – 11 Aug), where families can find out about famous record album covers from Liverpool musicians and create your own. In their second session children can learn about and make their own Victorian toy Victorian Toys (13 -15 Aug).
7. Save the bees! But which bees need saving? Find out with Andrea Ku! (17 August)
Discover the fascinating world of bees with local artist and beekeeper Andrea Ku in this informative session. Learn about the over 270 bee species in Britain, from honey bees to bumblebees and solitary bees, and find out which bees need saving.
Andrea will bring an observational hive from her Liverpool apiary, providing a unique opportunity to see a bee colony in action and learn to identify different castes. Gain insights into beekeeping and potential careers in the field. This free event, primarily for ages 16-24, welcomes all visitors on a first-come basis.
Pokey LaFarge
8. Pokey LaFarge, Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room (20 August)
Join Illinois native Pokey LaFarge as he debuts his latest album, Rhumba Country, a vibrant fusion inspired by the soul of Californian shores and distant locales like Africa and Latin America. Since his 2006 independent debut Marmalade, LaFarge has carved a niche in the blues and folk scene, with his journey taking him from Nashville to Los Angeles, and finally to Mid-Coast Maine. Rhumba Country reflects his newfound creativity, blending mambo, tropicália, rocksteady, and mid-century American rock-and-roll. Experience this kaleidoscopic sound live in an intimate show celebrating life and love.
9. Future Now Festival, Birkenhead (24 – 25 August)
Future Now Festival will take over Birkenhead on the bank holiday weekend, with 60 bands and artists performing on five stages across four venues around the Hamilton Square area. Alt-experimental pop/rock band Everything Everything will headline Birkenhead Town Hall on Saturday night with Nadine Shah closing the show headlining the Town Hall on Sunday. Nubiyan Twist return to Future Yard to headline the Garden stage on Saturday and Birkenhead’s-own She Drew The Gun headlines outdoor on Sunday. Weekend and day tickets are available now.
10. Rumpelstiltskin, The Atkinson (31 August)
Altru Drama present this new adaptation of Rumpelstiltskin – perfect for the whole family. Betsy and her dad the Miller are struggling to make ends meet, but a chance meeting with the foolish and greedy King Jacob thrusts them into a world of weaving, spinning and gold. Can Betsy spin the gold and save herself? Of course not! But Rumpelstiltskin can! Suitable for children aged 3-11 and their families.
To discover even more events happening in August check out our What’s On Listings.
Liverpool Arab Arts Festival’s Family Day at Sefton Park Palm House
Liverpool Arab Arts Festival (LAAF) 2024 promises to be a vibrant and enriching celebration of Arab culture, arts, and heritage. Set against the backdrop of Liverpool’s rich cultural tapestry, this year’s festival offers a diverse programme of events that includes music, dance, film, visual arts, literature, and engaging discussions. Running from 12 – 21 July, LAAF 2024 is set to captivate audiences with a blend of traditional and contemporary Arab artistic expressions. Here’s a preview of some of the highlights of this year’s festival.
Port Cities (12 – 20 July)
The Liverpool Arab Arts Festival will celebrate Liverpool’s unique identity; a city, with a global community and brimming with artistry, that looks outwards across the world. Highlighting the importance of this shared humanity, Port Cities, a brand-new visual arts project in partnership with British Council – MENA, will premiere newly commissioned artwork by four internationally renowned Arab artists exploring the social, historical and cultural links between Liverpool and the Arab region.
Port Cities symposium (15 July)
Join LAAF for an immersive day featuring talks, performances and screenings led by Port Cities artists Mohamed Abdelkarim, Laila Hida, Nadia Kaabi-Linke, Siska, and featuring special guests. Delve into the themes and concepts that have inspired their work for the project. Find out more here.
Slow Listening (12 – 21 July)
As part of the Port Cities project, Slow Listening is an initiative inviting you to pause and immerse yourself in the unique sounds of port cities around the world.
Port cities possess a unique identity and culture, reflected in their distinctive soundscapes. In Liverpool, the distant horns of ships, the cries of seagulls, and the gentle lapping of the River Mersey form the sonic backdrop of daily life. Each port city has its own auditory signature, offering a deeper understanding of its character.
Experience the sounds of Liverpool, Alexandria, Tripoli, Casablanca, and Tunis from wherever you are. Whether you are in Liverpool, one of the other participating cities, on the east coast of America, or the west coast of Africa, tune in to the sounds of these port cities to discover how they shape their cultural identity.
Yalla Neحky storytelling with Hadi Badi Books
Literature
Yalla Neحky storytelling with Hadi Badi Books (13 July)
Liverpool Central Library will host this storytelling workshop with Yalla Neحky on Saturday, 13 July with arts and crafts activity for children aged 4 – 8.
Janette Ayachi: Exploring Heritage Through Poetry (17 July)
London-born Edinburgh-based Scottish-Algerian poet, Janette Ayachi, will read from her outstanding second collection Quick Fire, Slow Burning, published in May 2024 in partnership with the University of Liverpool’s Centre for New and International Writing.
Oranges and Stones
Talk / Workshop
Alia & Dani, in one another’s presence (13 July)
If freedom were a verb, how would we manifest it in our day-to-day? Especially as we swim against a tide of erasure and silencing in our attempts to uphold dignity, where do we find the resource to keep going? Join performance-maker Dani Abulhawa and Artistic Director and CEO of Shubbak Alia Alzougbi as they sit together with participants to imagine our potential futures through attending to our feelings as individuals, and in dialogue with each other as a form of collective care and sense making. Find out more here.
Theatre
Oranges & Stones (18 July)
Oranges & Stones is a play without words, told solely through physical action and original music that conveys a moving image of occupation and settlement in Palestine spanning over 75 years.
Now more needed than ever, Oranges & Stones was last performed in the UK in 2013, it has been performed all over the world in countries including, Brazil, France, Germany, Jordan, Norway, Poland, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and the USA.
Marina Barham: A Voice for Theatre and Culture in Palestine (18 July)
Marina Barham, General Director of Al-Harah Theatre in Bethlehem Palestine, brings a voice from the theatre and performing arts sector in Palestine through the story of Al Harah Theatre and its work in the West Bank. Marina will be speaking at the festival about the current situation in Palestine and the role of theatre in helping children, young people and the community overcome trauma. She hopes it will provide an opportunity for Liverpool audiences to hear firsthand from a Palestinian activist in the cultural sector and to support the establishment of new partnerships and collaborations.
Chambers of the Heart (19 – 20 July)
Three women confront love, desire and memory in stories spanning East and West in the first staged performance of Chambers of the Heart. Newly divorced and adjusting to living alone in lockdown, 30-something Yasmine turns to online dating but there is something oddly familiar about who she meets. Reem is a Syrian refugee in her early 40s fleeing her country but unable to let go of the memory of an unrequited love. Mother is in her early 70s and reluctant to be on stage as she is interrogated by her son who is trying to unlock the past.
Comedy
Arabs Are Not Funny (13 July)
Widely regarded as one of the hottest comedy nights among the Arab community and beyond, Arabs Are Not Funny! sees comedians with roots in the Arab world showcasing their talents.
Comedy workshop with Maria Shehata (13 July)
Award-winning comedian Maria Shehata will deliver a comedy workshop for those keen to try their hand at stand-up. Attendees will learn how to develop a funny story, generate ideas, and make it their own.
At Home In Gaza and London
Film
Arab Film Night: At The Library x LAAF (14 July)
LAAF join forces with At The Library for a special summer evening of Arab film at the Plaza Community Cinema in Waterloo, with films chosen by founder of The Arab Film Club, Sarah Agha, and women from The Colour of Pomegranates group. See details about the films being screened here.
At Home In Gaza and London (15 July)
The festival will host a special fundraising screening of At Home in Gaza and London at Bluecoat on Monday 15 July. In 2016, a group of artistic collaborators in Gaza and London began a series of digital workshops as an alternative means to defy the blockade. This special screening of the performance in Liverpool will include messages from Gazan contributors, with all proceeds going to the project collaborators in Gaza trying to survive unimaginable circumstances.
The Ayoub Sisters
Music
The Ayoub Sisters (20 July)
Award-winning instrumental duo The Ayoub Sisters present an evening of live music including songs from their critically acclaimed album, Arabesque.
Scottish/Egyptian instrumentalists and composers, The Ayoub Sisters rose to stardom after their debut album premiered at No.1 in the Official Classical Charts. The sisters are recognised internationally for their chemistry on stage, as well as their ability to unite different musical genres and cultures together through their unique compositional style.
Family Day (21 July)
Taking place on the final day of Liverpool Arab Arts Festival, The Family Day is a celebratory showcase. A moment of togetherness and community, Sefton Park’s Palm House will play host to a free afternoon of music, performance, authentic Arab culture, food and drink. There will be over 20 stalls featuring authentic crafts, traders and so much more. Family Day is an unmissable highlight in Liverpool’s cultural calendar.
Africa Oyé, the country’s biggest celebration of African and Caribbean music and culture, will take over Sefton Park for two packed days of live music, dance, workshops, DJ stages, food stalls, traders and more on 22 & 23 June 2024.
Here we’ll give you the rundown of this year’s headliners, international acts and local talent, as well as highlighting what’s happening in the Oyé Village and Active Zone.
Africa Oyé 2024 Headliners
Les Amazones d’Afrique
The powerful and creative force of Les Amazones d’Afrique will headline Africa Oyé on Saturday 22 June.
Les Amazones d’Afrique is a dynamic collective formed in Bamako, Mali, in 2014 by Malian music stars and social change activists Mamani Keïta, Oumou Sangaré, and Mariam Doumbia. The group champions the rights of women and girls, blending heritage and new talent with international voices. Their membership includes notable artists such as Angélique Kidjo, Nneka, and rising Malian star Rokia Koné.
Their music, a powerful blend of pan-African styles and contemporary pop, supports their campaign for gender equality and the eradication of ancestral violence. Les Amazones d’Afrique have been recognized in The Guardian’s Top 50 albums of 2017, NPR Music’s best albums of 2020, and even featured on Barack Obama’s playlist. They have performed on Glastonbury Festival’s Pyramid stage and appeared on the BBC music show Later… with Jools Holland.
Julian Marley
Fresh off his Grammy win for Best Reggae Album for his collaboration album with Antaeus, Colors of Royal (2023), Julian Marley will headline on Sunday 23 June with his band The Uprising.
Born in London in 1975, Julian Marley is the son of reggae legend Bob Marley and Barbados-born Lucy Pounder. Immersed in a musical environment from a young age, the Grammy Award-winning musician, singer-songwriter, producer, and humanitarian quickly mastered the bass, drums, guitar, and keyboards.
In 2005, Julian and the Marley family launched the ‘Africa Unite’ concert series, starting in Ethiopia and continuing in Ghana in 2006 and Jamaica in 2008. He and his band, The Uprising, also performed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, celebrating with Jamaica’s Gold medalist, Usain Bolt. Known for his contributions to the consciousness movement in music, Julian is a devout Rastafarian, drawing inspiration from life and spirituality much like his father.
Photo Credit: Mark McNulty
International Acts on the Africa Oyé 2024 Lineup
Also announced for the main stage;
Senegalese electronic rising stars Def MaMa Def,
Tanzanian folk-fusion singers, The Zawose Queens
Congolese eco-friendly punks Fulu Miziki
frafra gospel talent, Florence Adooni
Canadian hip-hop contingent, Super Duty Tough Work.
Congolese rumba royalty, Nyboma
Haitian multilingual poet and MC, Vox Sambou
Senegalese griot, Batch Gueye
Local Acts
Young artists from Liverpool will kick off the daily musical line-up at the Africa Oyé festival this summer.
Launched in 2015, ‘Oyé Introduces’ sees local artists open the musical programme on both days of the festival – following community performances by cultural organisations from across the city region – giving some of the area’s brightest young talent the chance to share the stage with international stars.
Angolan rapper and songwriter Yilly Ruel performs a unique fusion of Hip Hop/Rap and Angolan rhythms, captivating audiences with his exhilarating sound. Based in Liverpool, Yilly has been making waves in the local music scene and achieved a significant milestone as the 3rd winner of the prestigious Open Mic UK 2019 competition held at the iconic O2 Arena in London.
Born and raised in Luanda – the capital of Angola – Yilly’s passion for music blossomed during his formative years. Balancing part-time employment with his dedication to crafting exceptional music, he transformed his home studio into a creative sanctuary, producing music that resonates with the themes of self-love and self-motivation.
Yilly – who will perform on the Saturday of the festival – has recently joined forces with Rax Vibes, a band featuring members with roots from Nigeria and Jamaica.
Fraya Ofoeme is an aspiring artist from Liverpool who has been singing since she was 4 years old. She describes it as her passion – and is determined to make it her future.
The young singer is involved in various events in the city, and is currently on Sound City’s Training and Development Programme.
Fraya, who will open the music programme of the Oyé festival on the Sunday, is currently working on her own original material – embracing her Nigerian and Senegalese heritage.
Photo Credit: Mark McNulty
Community Acts
The Community Acts for Africa Oyé 2024 have also been revealed, with MD Productions opening proceedings on the Saturday and Liverpool Hip Hop Festival presenting a showcase on the Sunday.
Since their inception in 2001, MD Productions has built up a well-respected professional repertoire in the entertainment industry as well as being well known in the Liverpool City Region for their community-based project “See you see Me”. The dance company’s journey has seen them become semi-finalists on Britain’s Got Talent three times, close the entertainment at the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2016. In addition, MD have performed for Michael Jackson, The Royal Family and supplied artists for the likes of MTV.
Liverpool Hip Hop Festival’s youth music group is a talented group of musicians and vocalists who have grown from their Access All Areas project, supported by Liverpool Royal Court. This year at Oyé, audiences can expect to see ‘an interesting collective of different musical vibes to get you in the mood for a good time’.
Photo Credit: Mark McNulty
Africa Oyé Village & Active Zone DJs
The Oyé Active Zone returns for 2024, and will once again be hosted by Liverpool’s world dance charity Movema. Audiences can expect the usual array of multi-arts workshops across the whole weekend, for all ages and abilities.
The increasingly-popular DJ stages Trenchtown and Freetown are also confirmed to return with a line-up of local selectors and MCs to be announced very soon. Africa Oyé’s ethos of being ‘free and open to all’ also means that as well as the festival remaining free entry, the popular Access Tent, on-stage British Sign Language translators and the Accessible Viewing Platform will all return in 2024.
This year’s Africa Oyé festival will take place on 22 – 23 June 2024, in Liverpool’s Sefton Park from 12:30pm til 9:30pm both days and entrance is FREE.
Liverpool is buzzing with excitement as Taylor Swift’s visit draws near, sparking a creative wave across the city. For Swifties with a passion for arts and culture, Liverpool is offering an array of Taylor Swift-themed events and workshops that are not to be missed.
From immersive craft workshops to unique cultural experiences, the city is transforming into a haven for fans to celebrate and express their admiration for the pop icon. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, dive into Liverpool’s vibrant arts scene and join fellow fans in crafting, creating, and celebrating all things Taylor Swift.
Liverpool Loves Taylor
Visit Liverpool has unveiled a number of special events happening across the city to mark Taylor Swift’s arrival. There’s the Taylor TownTrail with 11 art installations, each inspired by a different Taylor Swift Era, Swift-themed craft workshops and the University of Liverpool’s free Tay Day.
Liverpool Loves Taylor
Various Liverpool Locations More info
Taylor Swift Screen Printing Workshops At Bluecoat
Bluecoat are running Taylor Swift Screen Printing Workshops where you can create your own Taylor Swift-inspired tote bag and poster print under the expert guidance of local artist and print specialist, Ivy McIntyre. Select from a range of unique designs inspired by Taylor Swift, each featuring a marked date, ensuring every print becomes a cherished keepsake. After the printing session, participants will be invited to sit, relax, and craft personalised friendship bracelets.
Taylor Swift Screen Printing Workshops
Bluecoat
8 June Tickets
Swiftie Friendship Bracelets Workshop
Get ready to connect with fellow Taylor Swift fans and make new friends while creating your own friendship bracelets. This workshop delivered by Make CIC, is part funded and delivered in partnership with Culture Liverpool as part the Liverpool Loves Taylor programme. Led by Cloverlea Crystals, join for an unforgettable afternoon of creativity and camaraderie, all inspired by our shared love for Taylor Swift.
During the workshop, you’ll receive a personal kit that you can take home, including wiring and beads. The kit contains enough materials to create bracelets inspired by all 11 albums and more.
Swiftie Friendship Bracelets Workshop 13 June
Metquarter Tickets
Taylor Swift Fanpark Ft Swiftogeddon At BOXPARK Liverpool
From Thursday 13 through to Saturday 15 June BOXPARK Liverpool will be creating a Fanpark dedicated to all the Swifties, with Taylor Swift Club Night Swiftogeddon. There will be DJs, live performances, glitter stations and more. Open each day from 11am – 11pm you can soak up the Taylor vibes before heading to the big show, or if you don’t have tickets then you can continue to dance the day and night away at BOXPARK.
Taylor Swift Fan Park Ft Swiftoggedon 13 – 15 June BOXPARK Liverpool Tickets (Free)
Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
Experience the music of Taylor Swift as you may have never seen or heard it before, at the stunning St George’s Hall. Under the glow of candlelight, a string quartet will play an hour-long programme of some of Taylor’s best and most-loved tracks, including Love Story, You Belong With Me and All Too Well.
Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
St George’s Hall
Saturday 22 June Tickets
Delving into three years of introspection, rising star Michael Aldag’s music anthology, ‘Sorry for Everything’ offers a raw narrative intertwined with the impact of the internet on his identity. In an exclusive with Uncover Liverpool, Aldag shares the heartfelt process behind his lyrics, reflects on BBC Radio 1 support and the city’s burgeoning talent.
Uncover Liverpool: Congratulations on the release of your anthology, ‘Sorry for Everything’. Can you share with us the journey of creating the anthology and what listeners can expect from it?
Michael Aldag: Thank you so much! I have been writing this anthology for 3 years. It documents my life since I was about 19 years old. I think a lot of it deals with the internet and how intertwined my life and personality is with it. It is essentially a diary entry over some chords, it’s very personal. I hope people can find some use in some of the songs.
Uncover Liverpool: Can you tell us a bit about your songwriting process and how you approach crafting meaningful lyrics that resonate with your audience?
MD: Whilst writing ‘Sorry for Everything’ I was trying to be really honest. A lot of the songs were cathartic as they include things that I otherwise wouldn’t be able to put into words. Listening back sometimes I flinch at how open I was about things but I generally am proud of that vulnerability.
Uncover Liverpool: BBC Radio 1 has been a big supporter of your music. How does it feel to receive such recognition from a prestigious platform, and how has radio support impacted your career?
MD: It feels amazing and still very surreal whenever I get supported by them. Radio 1 have been fantastic but also Radio Merseyside have supported me since I was 14 years old uploading songs. I don’t think I would’ve made it this far without their continued support. It means so much and has been vital for my career.
Uncover Liverpool: What would you say are your favourite aspects of being a musician? Writing? being in the studio? Performing live?
MD: Writing and performing are the two things in the world that I get a true buzz from. I love performing and have done a lot of it in the past year which I am very grateful for. At the moment I am writing more for my next project and have immersed myself in that new world, I feel 16-years-old again, limitless creativity – it feels fantastic.
Uncover Liverpool: Which Liverpool city region acts are you excited about? Who should we be listening to right now, apart from yourself of course!
MD: The city is buzzing with up and coming talent at the moment! KOJ is definitely someone to look out for, he has a project coming soon I believe and he has a lot to say in a very unique way, I’m a big fan of his. Also STONE have a new project coming too which I’m very much looking forward to hearing!
Uncover Liverpool: Looking ahead to the future, what are your long-term goals and aspirations for your music career, and what do you hope to achieve next?
MD: At the moment I am just focused on getting as many people as possible to hear ‘Sorry for Everything’ and beyond that I’m looking forward to the festivals I get to play this summer. And of course finishing the new project I mentioned. I have a tour for ‘Sorry for Everything’ coming up in October around the UK which should be really fun. I can’t wait to sing the new songs live and see if people like them. I am nervous but very excited too! The dates for the tour are below. Longer term I would love to do an arena tour but truly I would just love to keep creating and performing for a living, I would be so happy with that.
Huddersfield, Parish – 1st October
Glasgow, Stereo – 2nd October
Manchester, Gorilla – 3rd October
Sheffield, Foundry – 6th October
Leicester, Academy 2 – 7th October
London, Scala – 10th October
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