
(Image: Supplied)
Music fans can discover six of the North East’s brightest emerging artists at a Mercury Prize Fringe event ahead of this year’s awards ceremony.
The showcase takes place on Thursday, October 22, at the Full Circle Brewery pub on the first floor of Fenwick Newcastle’s Northumberland Street store, beside Colmans restaurant.
From 12pm to 6pm, six acts will perform live lounge-style sets, with presenter Alice Patterson introducing each one before a short interview.
Leo Fenwick, strategic partnerships director at Fenwick, said: "The return of the Mercury Prize is a brilliant moment for Newcastle and another opportunity to shine a spotlight on the creativity that exists across the North East.
"At Fenwick, we’re proud to use our platform to champion emerging local artists, giving them the opportunity to share their music with new audiences.
"Supporting the community around us is incredibly important, and we’re delighted to play our part in bringing the excitement of the Mercury Prize into the heart of the city."
The line-up features Manny 234, Jenna Cole, So Anne-So, Vin Kay, Pearly Gates and Talk Like Tigers.
Each artist will perform a live set, giving audiences the chance to discover new music and meet them in an intimate setting.
The event is free, but guests must book a table through the Fenwick website.
Guests can also enjoy Full Circle beers on tap and light bites from Colmans while listening to the music.
Manny 234 opens at 12pm, followed by Jenna Cole at 1pm, So Anne-So at 2pm, Vin Kay at 3pm, Pearly Gates at 4pm and Talk Like Tigers at 5pm.
Nigerian-born Manny 234 is a UK-based Afrobeats and Afro-fusion artist who blends African rhythms with soulful storytelling and high-energy performances.
Whitley Bay’s Jenna Cole is a songwriter and producer who blends contemporary R&B, Afrobeats and dance-inspired pop.
French artist So Anne-So mixes jazz with alternative pop, while Vin Kay brings Persian-influenced R&B and soul.
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Pearly Gates is Newcastle artist Tom Hunt’s electronic solo project, blending ambient soundscapes with club-ready beats.
Talk Like Tigers are North East twin sisters Charlotte and Stephanie, known for K-pop-inspired music, infectious hooks and bold harmonies.
Book a table at www.fenwick.co.uk/pages/2026-mercury-prize-events-at-fenwick-newcastle.