‘Things like this are so important’ - Jarrow singer praises free amphitheatre concert programme
A series of concerts platforming local music acts are set to get underway in South Shields.
A popular Jarrow singer/songwriter has expressed the importance giving a platform to local music acts ahead of the first ‘The Next! Big Thing’ gig of 2026.
‘The Next! Big Thing’ looks to showcase the talents of local artists through a vibrant programme of events by the sea.
Among the programme is a series of four free concerts at the Sandhaven Amphitheatre, on Sea Road, in South Shields.
‘Things like this are so important’
Lauren Amour, who is among the acts performing throughout June, has spoken of her excitement at performing at the seafront and explained how important these gigs are to local artists.
She said: “I’m really excited because I feel like South Tyneside has always thoroughly supported me and my musical journey.
“I’ve been in the South Tyneside music scene since I was around 15-years-old so I’ve been in it for a long time.
“I just love all of the support that the borough always gives.
“Things like this are so important because when you’ve got the backing from your hometown, it feels like you can go anywhere.”
The full line-up for 2026
‘The Next! Big Thing’ concerts will kick off on Thursday, June 4, from 7pm until 9pm, and will feature Corey G, The Rivergate, Conor Michael and Beth Browne.
Then from 7pm on Saturday, June 6, sets will be performed by Alf Hill, Slate Label, Ruled By Raptors and Tired Of Fighting.
Following a short break, ‘The Next! Big Thing’ sessions will return at 7pm on Thursday, June 18 when Leopard Print, Chris Forbes, Alice Street and Polyvinyl take to the stage.
The final gig will start a 7pm on Saturday, June 27, with sets from Aydie, Scarlett Esme, Lauren Amour and Isabel Maria.
A new back drop
The artists will be performing against a backdrop in the form of the Sandhaven Amphitheatre’s new mural, which was revealed to members of the public on Sunday, May 31.
Eight-year-old Alica Georgiev, from Jarrow, created the winning design in a competition that featured almost 100 entries.
During the unveiling event, Ray Spencer MBE branded the amphitheatre as an “important culture spot for our little borough” before he listed some of the previous acts to perform there, including Jade and Sam Fender.