Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

Upcoming events at Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

Community

SONIC FUTURES: PRS Foundation Drop-In

PRS Foundation Funding Advice Session Wednesday 15th April | 6:30–8:30pm The Forum, Darlington Hosted by: SONIC FUTURES Join us for an informal evening with PRS Foundation, led by John Hendrickse and Lloyd Francis, to explore funding opportunities available through the PPL Momentum Music Fund and PPL Momentum Accelerator Tees Valley. This session is designed for both music creators and music professionals based in Tees Valley — from artists and producers to managers, promoters and those working behind the scenes to support music and creative projects. What to Expect • An introduction to PRS Foundation funding opportunities • Insight into what makes a strong application • Guidance on the PPL Momentum Accelerator Tees Valley fund • The chance to ask questions and get advice directly from the PRS team • Support and guidance if you’re considering applying Who It’s For This session is ideal if you: • Are an artist, producer or music creator ready to take the next step • Work in music behind the scenes (e.g. management, promotion, production, events or education) • Are based in or connected to Tees Valley • Have been building your career and are ready to grow your impact About the Funding The PPL Momentum Accelerator Tees Valley supports artists and music professionals who are building momentum but need support to reach the next stage of their careers. Funding can help unlock new opportunities, develop your work and strengthen your position within the industry. Funding opens...

Wed 15 Apr18:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

Millie Manders & The Shut Up: Back to the Futour

Cross-genre punk rock is increasingly hard to ignore. With main stage appearances at notable festivals such as Slam Dunk, Beautiful Days and Rebellion, and extensive support from the likes of BBC Introducing and Radio X, the last two years have propelled MILLIE MANDERS AND THE SHUTUP into the public conscience and music by Millie Manders, whose staggering vocal dexterity, backed by grinding guitars and irresistible horns has huge pop appeal. The lyrics deliberate on themes of loss, betrayal, anger, anxiety, heartbreak and bitterness, environmental catastrophe and political unrest. With a conscience ensuring zero plastic wrapping on any merchandise, and that limited edition artwork and clothing are sold to help raise money for charities, Millie Manders and The Shutup are striving to make a difference whilst keeping us uplifted and brilliantly entertained. The live shows are renowned for their power and contagious energy and 2026 sees MMATSU looking to release their highly anticipated third album. “MMATSU bring fierce and addictive ska punk with emotive and urgent lyrics; tipped as the UK’s answer to The Interrupters  with high octane live shows and attitude backed with morality …” VIVE LE ROCK With support from Death Trails: Northern loud mouths Death Trails are a hard-hitting three piece with duelling female and male vocals.

Thu 16 Apr19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

Definitely Oasis

Definitely Oasis deliver the swagger, sound, and attitude of Manchester’s finest with uncanny precision. From soaring anthems to raw, gritty classics, they recreate the full Oasis experience with stadium‑level energy and unmistakable Gallagher spirit. Perfect for anyone chasing that 90s Britpop buzz. Tickets £17 in advance Member Tickets On-sale Wednesday 7th Jan General Tickets On-sale Monday 12th Jan Doors From: 7.30PM Show Starts: 8.30PM (Approximately) 16+ (Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult) Standing Event Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours & Venue Info for more info. A non-refundable 50p booking fee is added to each ticket when buying online On the door ticket sales are subject to availability and not guaranteed Tickets also available from EVENTIM

Fri 17 Apr19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

TunnelVision | Suspirium | Brain Probation

Born in Darlington, TunnelVision are a dynamic 4 piece bringing a fresh edge to the indie and alternative rock scene. TunnelVision plays a wide range of different genres throughout their covers whilst adding their own creative spin to the original tracks. Fronted by Harry Gooding, the band delivers powerful melodies and striking vocals hooking spectators in from the first note. Alongside him, Josh Robinson on rhythm guitar builds the backbone of their sound whilst Jack Lynn on the bass lays down groove-heavy basslines perfectly in time with Elliott Bethell playing on the drum kit delivering explosive rhythms and cementing the heartbeat of each song. Since forming in October 2025 in QE sixth form college, TunnelVision have been playing shows and building a loyal fanbase. Plus Suspirium & Brain Probation Tickets £5.00 advance (PLEASE NOTE, NO DOOR SALES ONLY ADVANCE TICKETS) Doors: 6:30PM Show Starts 7:00PM (Approximately) 16+ Strictly no backpacks or large bags, all bags will be searched upon entry Standing event Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours & Venue Info for more info. A non-refundable 50p booking fee is added to each ticket when buying online.

Thu 23 Apr19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

T-ROX | A Tribute to Glam Rock

Gasto Promotions Presents: T-Rox are a superb authentic live tribute to the Glam Rock Era. The music was originally predominantly a tribute to Marc Bolan and T.Rex, but gradually they started introducing more hits of early seventies Glam Rock era, to give the show a more varied mix of music.  The show now covers bands like Sweet, Slade, Mud, David Bowie, Status Quo, Golden Earring and Queen. Tickets £12.00 adv Doors From: 7:30PM Show Starts: 8:30PM (Approximately) 16+ (Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult) Standing Event Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours & Venue Info for more info. A non-refundable 50p booking fee is added to each ticket when buying online. On the door ticket sales are subject to availability and not guaranteed.

Fri 24 Apr19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

Blackout the Arcade | Indie/Alt

Blackout the Arcade signifies the uprising of a new revelation within the Indie and Alternative music scene in the North-East of England; introducing a fusion of “no-nonsense” reverberant rock with psychedelic undertones, in a style not too dissimilar from the likes of The Killers and Catfish and the Bottlemen. In anticipation of their run of 5 new single releases, Blackout the Arcade “Darlington’s hottest new indie outfit” hope to match the success of their previous “catchy indie bangers” that are “laden with towering guitar hooks and a driving vocal performance, giving you a thrilling treat to wrap your ears around” as well as nostalgic live performances at independent venues in the North-East such as THINK TANK?, The Georgian Theatre and KU Bar The North-East is starting to get a reputation for “producing some amazing guitar-based acts, with Blackout the Arcade is the latest alumni to join the roster”. Radiating an infectious and ignitable energy which is impossible to disregard, the group now have their ambitions aimed on smashing through the formidable barricades of 2024. Tickets £10.00 Doors From: 7:00PM Show Starts: 8:00PM (Approximately) 18+ Standing Event Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours &...

Sat 25 Apr19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

Blackout the Arcade | The Callows | Rivia

Blackout the Arcade signifies the uprising of a new revelation within the Indie and Alternative music scene in the North-East of England; introducing a fusion of “no-nonsense” reverberant rock with psychedelic undertones, in a style not too dissimilar from the likes of The Killers and Catfish and the Bottlemen. In anticipation of their run of 5 new single releases, Blackout the Arcade “Darlington’s hottest new indie outfit” hope to match the success of their previous “catchy indie bangers” that are “laden with towering guitar hooks and a driving vocal performance, giving you a thrilling treat to wrap your ears around” as well as nostalgic live performances at independent venues in the North-East such as THINK TANK?, The Georgian Theatre and KU Bar The North-East is starting to get a reputation for “producing some amazing guitar-based acts, with Blackout the Arcade is the latest alumni to join the roster”. Radiating an infectious and ignitable energy which is impossible to disregard, the group now have their ambitions aimed on smashing through the formidable barricades of 2024. The Callows:  Up and coming band from Darlington, writing original songs and recording covers with a twist, the band have bagged themselves radio play and bookings for many gigs in the future.

Sat 25 Apr19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Community

Wellbeing For The Mind Through Music (Tuesday)

Wellbeing for the mind through music with Hayley McKay Join us for our free monthly sessions. Open to people of all ages and musical abilities, Music Mind is a new incentive which sets out to improve mental health and wellbeing through singing, song-writing and music production. The sessions were created by Hayley McKay, a leading vocal coach, music tutor and professional singer-songwriter. She has worked extensively in supporting people throughout the UK and in local communities. She is currently on maternity leave so the sessions will be run by Andy and Christina until May. She said: “It’s quite incredible how engaging in music making can really lift your spirits. I have worked with people of all ages and abilities, and I have witnessed first-hand how much joy and the positive benefits it brings to all.” The monthly, informal sessions are free to attend, and aim to be informal, relaxing, fun and interactive, with the opportunity to make new friends, write songs and find your inner voice with talents you never knew you had. Socialise and make new friends Group singing opportunities Musical instruments Support for Song writing Musical Recording opportunities Performance opportunities for family and friends Hayley McKay is an international award-winning singer-songwriter with appearances on national TV and radio. She has supported artists including Tom Jones, Scouting for Girls and Martha Reeves, and has performed at many festivals and venues. Email...

Tue 28 Apr13:00Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Community

Wellbeing For The Mind Through Music (Wednesday)

Wellbeing for the mind through music with Hayley McKay Join us for our free monthly sessions. Open to people of all ages and musical abilities, Music Mind is a new incentive which sets out to improve mental health and wellbeing through singing, song-writing and music production. The sessions were created by Hayley McKay, a leading vocal coach, music tutor and professional singer-songwriter. She has worked extensively in supporting people throughout the UK and in local communities. She is currently on maternity leave so the sessions will be run by Andy and Christina until May. She said: “It’s quite incredible how engaging in music making can really lift your spirits. I have worked with people of all ages and abilities, and I have witnessed first-hand how much joy and the positive benefits it brings to all.” The monthly, informal sessions are free to attend, and aim to be informal, relaxing, fun and interactive, with the opportunity to make new friends, write songs and find your inner voice with talents you never knew you had. Socialise and make new friends Group singing opportunities Musical instruments Support for Song writing Musical Recording opportunities Performance opportunities for family and friends Hayley McKay is an international award-winning singer-songwriter with appearances on national TV and radio. She has supported artists including Tom Jones, Scouting for Girls and Martha Reeves, and has performed at many festivals and venues. Email...

Wed 29 Apr14:00Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

Live and Local feat. Detonata | Artemis | Slow Filter

Live and Local is a monthly gig night showcasing and celebrating North East artists and bands of all ages. Detonata: Coming together in March 2025 and hailing from Billingham in north east England, Detonata band, made up of Donovan Johnson (Vocals), Forrest Devine (Bass), Ryan Gibson (guitar), Joe Allison (Drums) and later Logan Walker ( Guitar ) had a mutual love for both heavy rock and grunge. Inspirations range from the new wave of british heavy metal in the early 1980’s to Guns and roses and Alice in chains. Artemis: Artemis are an all girl alternative rock band from Teeside, bringing covers from a variety of bands including Deftones, Radiohead, Fleetwood mac and more Slow Filter: Slow Filter are a North-East alternative hard rock band focusing on covers from 90s bands like Radiohead and the Smashing Pumpkins. Tickets £4.00 Doors From: 6:30PM Show Starts: 7:00PM (Approximately) 16+ Standing Event Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours & Venue Info for more info. A non-refundable 50p booking fee is added to each ticket when buying online. On the door ticket sales are subject to availability and not guaranteed

Thu 30 Apr18:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

The Petty Heartbreakers

The Petty Heartbreakers is a celebration of the great Tom Petty, with and without The Heartbreakers and also Mudcrutch. From the first album in 1976 to 2017, covering the big hits and much more. The band have been playing the Forum almost annually for a number of years now and are the longest established tribute to Tom Petty in the UK, formed in 2011. Tickets £13.00 adv// £14.00 otd Doors From: 7:30PM Show Starts 8:30PM (Approximately) 16+ (Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult) Standing event Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours & Venue Info for more info. A non-refundable 50p booking fee is added to each ticket when buying online. On the door ticket sales are subject to availability and not guaranteed

Fri 1 May19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

Open Mic Night – On The Main Stage

Open Mic Night at The Forum on the Main Stage, Hosted by Ed Turnbull and Petra Hladíková aka The Lost Chihuahuas Turn up, plug in and play at the Forum’s monthly Open Mic Night on our main stage. All abilities welcome, no sign up required. What we provide: – 3x Vocal Mics – 3x DI Boxes with jack cables (to plug instruments into) Please note we cannot accommodate backing tracks, all music needs to be fully live. Ed may be able to accompany you if you message him on Facebook via the link above. Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page

Wed 6 May19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

RnB: Big Wolf Band

Formed in Birmingham in 2014 by acclaimed guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Jonathan Earp, Big Wolf Band have become one of the UK’s most respected and dynamic blues rock acts. Joined by Mick Jeynes (bass), Tim Jones (drums), Justin Johnson (guitar), and Arran Shangavi (keys), the band deliver explosive live performances full of raw emotion, musical precision, and powerful storytelling. With multiple UK Blues Award nominations, including Top 5 Best Blues Band in both 2023 and 2024, and a Top 5 Album nod for their latest release Rebel’s Journey in 2025, Big Wolf Band continue to rise as a major force in the genre. Their live shows are known for their dynamic range—from hard-edged blues rock anthems to soulful ballads and groove-driven instrumentals—earning them a reputation as one of the most exciting live bands on the circuit. With multiple UK Blues Award nominations, including Top 5 Best Blues Band in both 2023 and 2024, and a Top 5 Album nod for their latest release Rebel’s Journey in 2025, Big Wolf Band continue to rise as a major force in the genre.

Fri 8 May19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Community

Stereosonics

Get ready for a night of pure Welsh Rock as Stereosonics are back to take over The Forum once again! This brilliant band are the UK’s leading tribute to the Stereophonics, with a reputation for sold-out shows and a sound that is virtually indistinguishable from the original Welsh rockers. Join us for a night of massive hits including Dakota, Maybe Tomorrow, and C’est La Vie andThe Bartender and the Thief, Have a Nice Day, and Handbags and Gladrags plus many more. Advance tickets strongly advised. Tickets £16 Doors From: 7.30PM Show Starts: 8.30PM (Approximately) 16+ (Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult) Standing Event Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours & Venue Info for more info. A non-refundable 50p booking fee is added to each ticket when buying online On the door ticket sales are subject to availability and not guaranteed

Sat 9 May19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

The Forum Open Jam with Ria Robinson

Welcome to the Forum Open Jam, hosted by Ria Robinson. With over 12 years of experience playing live in bands, Ria has performed in many different settings: Worked in school pit bands including School Of Rock and Grease The Musical. Teaching Drums for Woking Music. Performing at countless Forum Menageries at The Forum Darlington. Recording tracks with Chris Davison. Recording sessions in the SSL Studio at ACM Guildford. Performing with function bands in The North East. Performing Superstition on a cruise ship with a house band. Singing at The Sage, Gateshead. We will provide the following: Drum Kit 2 x guitar Amp Bass amp Keyboard Mics DI Boxes Due to limited space please refrain from bringing an excess of equipment.

Wed 13 May19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Comedy

Comedy | Elaine Robertson: Delulu

Hilarity Bites Comedy Club presents Elaine Robertson: Delulu Elaine is famous. Elaine is the worst person in the world. Elaine saw Bootsy Collins on a child’s bike outside a Dominoes in Gateshead* *None of these things are true. Elaine Robertson is Delulu. Delulu was Elaine Robertson’s debut Edinburgh Fringe solo show and won the ISH Edinburgh Fringe Panel Prize. County Durham born Elaine Robertson was a finalist in the Channel 4 Sean Lock Comedian of the Year, has been described as a ‘natural comedy performer’ (Chortle) and having ‘daring indelible stage craft’ (Edinburgh Laughter Bulletin). Her powerpoint presentations on geography and birds have gone viral across social media racking up over 7 million views. “Hilarious, heartbreaking at times, but ultimately celebratory, a true gem” – – Ed Fringe Comedy “Elaine Robertson sparkles with personality and joy on stage… a natural comedy performer” – – Chortle Please Note: Show may contain strong language and adult themes. Tickets: £10 Doors From 7.30PM Show Starts: 8.00PM (Approximately) 18+ Only Unreserved Seating Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours & Venue Info for more info. A non-refundable 50p booking fee is added to each ticket when buying...

Thu 14 May19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

Gasto Promotions: La Villa Strangiato

La Villa Strangiato is a originally Italian project born as a tribute to Rush, mainly to revive their music from the 70s and 80s, formed by Gabriele Ferrari in 2010. With the help of musician friends, they performed their first show in Rome in March 2011, dedicated to the album ‘Exit Stage Left’. After going from strength to strength playing around Europe and headlining Rush EuCon (the European Fan Convention) in the UK in 2014, and with Rush’s 40th anniversary being recorded in 2015, they toured Europe, the production titled “Rush 40”. LVS toured “Signals Under Pressure” and were invited to play at Rushest in Scotland, with original Rush producer Terry Brown in the audience. In 2017 the tour was a tribute to “2112” and at Rush EuCon they played with Terry Brown once again. 2018 was the “Stranger Spheres” (Hemispheres) tour and 2019 was “A Show Of Hands”. For 2020 they had prepared “Permanent Changes” but after only a few shows the tour was postponed due to the pandemic, resuming from mid-2021 until the end of 2022. During that season the band will make a big change in the Line Up and in addition to the founding member Gabriele, will be made up of top musicians from the United Kingdom.

Fri 22 May19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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Live Music

Ed Blaney's 1984 | Electro Pop

1984 return to the Forum with their electrifying electro pop show featuring massive synthesizer sounds, captivating visuals, and the amazingly versatile voice of Ed Blaney. Ed is joined by Ultimate Bowie alumnae, the brilliant Joe Hope on bass guitar and bass synths and vocals, the one and only “Duchess” on synthesizers and vocals and our new drummer make “1984 the electro pop experience”. Many electro-pop artists have drawn significant inspiration from David Bowie’s innovative style, genre-blending sound, and iconic persona. Gary Numan, Visage, Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, Midge Ure, the list goes on. Bowie’s fearless experimentation and genre-defying creativity continue to shape countless electro-pop artists, blending style, innovation, and storytelling in powerful ways. So I guess you see the link between Ed’s love of Bowie and electronica. Come and see the show. it’s a full-sensory experience designed to make you move, feel, and connect. Tickets £13.00 Show Starts: 8.30PM (Approximately) 16+ (Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult) Standing Event Before attending please read our Covid-19 Disclaimer and check out our Venue Info Page How To Buy Your Ticket Buy Online, using the box below Visit The Forum Reception Call us on: Please note our reception and phone line are not always manned especially at busy events, please see our Opening Hours & Venue Info for more info. A non-refundable 50p booking fee is added to each ticket when buying online On the...

Sat 23 May19:30Funkiest Grooviest Gig Night Out

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