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Quick summary
- Price
- Pay As You Feel (£3/£5/£7)
- Audience type
- 11+
- Running time
- 3 hours
Event description
Celebrate the next generation of musical talent at Washington Emerging showcasing some of the region’s most exciting young performers.
From powerful vocals to original songwriting and genre‑spanning sounds, these up‑and‑coming musicians bring fresh energy, new ideas, and undeniable passion to the stage.
Join us for a vibrant night that highlights the creativity and skill of local artists on the rise—perfect for music lovers, supporters of youth talent, and anyone looking to discover their next favourite act.
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Callum O'Neil Band
Callum O’Neil is a young and prolific songwriter, whose deeply personal songs shine through, leading him to win the Sunderland Music City songwriting competition in 2024. He is about to release his debut single and following on from sold out support slots with local artists Patrick Gosling and Swindled is looking to build some momentum throughout 2026!
Stellacaster
Stellacaster are a 4-piece indie rock band from County Durham. Having already performed at the likes of The Little Buildings, The Cluny and INDEPENDENT – SUNDERLAND, we can’t wait to see them make their Washington debut on the 27th!
Aiko
Aiko are a 3-piece alternative band from Sunderland. Consisting of past members from hardcore band NV, they blend vibrant guitars with fast-paced, metal-influenced drumming and heartfelt vocals to deliver an emo-influenced frenzy that’ll be sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Fry Ups
The Fry Ups are a 4-piece band influenced by the sounds of UK indie greats like Arctic Monkeys, The Libertines and Wunderhorse. The group are hot off the heels of their latest release, Taxi, and we look forward to welcoming them to Arts Centre Washington
Apricity
Apricity are a 4-piece girl band based in Sunderland. Emerging from Arts Centre Washington’s very own Right Track Youth Music Project, the group have a unique contemporary sound reflecting their diverse musical influences. They released their debut single, Lover-Zone, in April 2025 and have already amassed 5000 streams on SoundCloud.
Leopard Print
Leopard Print are a 5-piece, female-fronted post-punk band serving chaos, movement, and wicked dual-vocals. Loud, confrontational, and built to make you dance, Leopard Print thrives on high-energy performances and unapologetic presence.
Photos from last years event
Bright Lights Youth Arts Festival 2026
Saturday 21 February – Saturday 28 February
A celebration of creativity featuring free workshops and special events across the city for young people aged 11-19.
Bright Lights Youth Arts Festival 2026 is supported by Culture Start and the Autonomy project. The Autonomy project is supported by Association of Independent Museums’ Connected Communities programme, funded by the Department for Culture Media and Sport’s Know Your Neighbourhood Fund, through Arts Council England.
