Access All AreasLive Nation has announced that its The Great Escape (TGE) festival will see a record number of grassroots artists perform at the Brighton event.
The showcase festival, and industry conference, that will take place in more than 30 venues across the city from 14-17 May will involve 550 emerging artists, from around 40 countries, and feature 750 performances – a record number.
TGE, which will celebrate its 20th anniversarty next year, has long been seen as a key platform for emerging talent, and is credited for helping to kickstart the careers of acts including Adele, Ed Sheeran and Stormzy (pictured).
Live Nation UK and Ireland chairman Denis Desmond said, “Supporting emerging talent is essential to keeping the future of music strong. We recognise how important it is to give emerging artists the platforms they need to grow – which is why we’ve doubled our investment in new talent since 2018.”
Brighton-based duo Rizzle Kicks, who first performed at TGE in 2011 and return this year for the Spotlight show, said, “Great Escape is a festival close to our hearts; we used to come as kids. 15 years ago we managed to blag tickets to Chase and Status which was the spotlight show at the Dome. Genuinely can’t believe that’s now us. Buzzing for it.”
Rory Bett, CEO MAMA Festivals and VIP Nation said, “The Great Escape is an incredible festival to be a part of – it’s an event that’s helped shape the voices of tomorrow. Everyone loves finding their next favourite artist, and this is the place to do it.”