York Press #local #york View original ↗

Thousands relived the 1980s when Holly Johnson rocked Scarborough - these 32 brilliant photos capture the best moments of his hit-filled show.

32 brilliant photos from Holly Johnson's hit-filled Scarborough show

32 brilliant photos from Holly Johnson's hit-filled Scarborough show

Thousands of fans turned out to see Holly Johnson play Scarborough Open Air Theatre last night, Friday, August 14, with special guests ABC and Heaven 17. (Image: Cuffe & Taylor)

Thousands of fans turned out as British pop icon Holly Johnson rolled back the years at Scarborough Open Air Theatre last night.

The Frankie Goes To Hollywood frontman delivered a memorable performance, blending hits from his band days and solo career - as can be seen in these 32 photos from Holly Johnson's hit-filled Scarborough show.

Our reviewer Dave Lawrence said it was a fitting end to another great evening of music in Scarborough as "Johnson’s voice displayed no evidence of wear or tear since Frankie’s breakthrough performance on The Tube 43 years ago, which thrust the band into the nation’s consciousness".

  • Read his reviewhere

We've chosen the best photos from the night - of both the fans and stars - for our gallery featuring Holly Johnson and his special guests, the legendary ABC and Heaven 17 - with images by Dave Lawrence, and show promoters Cuffe & Taylor.

Thousands of fans turned out to see Holly Johnson play Scarborough Open Air Theatre last night, Friday, August 14, with special guests ABC and Heaven 17.

(Image: Cuffe & Taylor)

The Scarborough Open Air Theatre 2026 season, presented by TK Maxx, continues tonight, Saturday, August 15, with the Hollywood Vampires, featuring Johnny Depp, Alice Cooper, Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry, and Tommy Henriksen.

Recommended reads:

  • Johnny Depp to play Scarborough with Hollywood Vampires

  • Thousands party as Scissor Sisters sweep into North Yorkshire for spectacular show

  • Legendary singer James Taylor closes European tour with unforgettable Scarborough gig

  • Grammy-nominated star's two-night takeover of North Yorkshire venue in 16 photos

    The American rock supergroup have returned to the UK and Europe this summer for their first live dates in almost three years, including their hugely anticipated show at Scarborough Open Air Theatre.

Their show at the venue attracted a sold-out audience back in 2023.

The venue is celebrating a record-breaking 2026 programme of 26 headline concerts, including Rick Astley, Tom Jones, Madness, Scissor Sisters, Teddy Swims, The Streets and Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter.

Have you been to any of this summer's shows? Share your highlights in the comments below.