Dedicated to the memory of Brian Pretty, former president of Lichfield Arts, who played a pivotal role in the organisation and supporting young, local talent for over 40 years.

Lichfield Arts Emerging Talent Programme’s aim is to identify, mentor and provide opportunities for young, local emerging talent across all art forms. Lichfield Arts does this by:

• Offering showcase opportunities including Introducing and Emerging Talent events at various venues, at our festivals and as part of our outreach projects.

• Open call-outs for talent, identifying talent in partnership with schools, colleges and other local organisations, running workshops and talent sessions and offering work experience opportunities.

• Offering small financial awards from Lichfield Arts Wildfire Fund to support next steps.

• Recommend local talent to others to create more opportunities for participants.

Upcoming events

Saturday 5th April 2025 – Introducing Night, Lichfield Guildhall

There will be an open call-out to young talented persons across Lichfield District. Selected participants will be invited to attend workshops supporting their talent. This will culminate in the evening at Lichfield Guildhall.

Friday 11th July 2025 – Fuse Introducing Night

Selected bands from Lichfield’s Friary and King Edward’s schools will perform.(Subject to Fuse funding)

Friday 11th July to Sunday 13th July 2025 – Lichfield Fuse Festival

Fuse 25 Young Producers Programme. Opportunities for young, local, emerging talent. (Subject to Fuse funding)

Recent Emerging Talent events

Saturday 2nd November 2024 – Emerging Talent Night

Eighteen young people performed in four bands in Lichfield Guildhall, with an exciting line up of: The AM’S,  L’Exterior D’Lidl, The Crash, Diverted Traffic

Comments from parents:

“A huge thank you to you and your colleagues for organising such an amazing event.”

“It was wonderful watching H up on stage (he had had a very bad week) and the difference in the band’s confidence has grown immensely even from Fuse.”

“We would just like to thank you for absolutely amazing evening the band had a fantastic time. And so did we. Thank you and your team for all your hard work you have done to put together these shows.”

Friday 12th July 2024 – Lichfield Fuse Festival 24 Introducing Night

Selected bands from Lichfield’s Friary and King Edward’s schools performed. Line up: The AM’S, The Crash, L’Exterior D’Lidl, Eddies Jazz, Diverted Traffic, Polar Opposites

“I Just wanted to thank you for choosing H and The Crash to perform on the newcomer stage. H had an amazing time and all his friends and family had a great time watching them and the other acts. The confidence and talent was astounding. Thanks to you and all the Fuse team for your hard work and effort in making such a great event which gives all the performers such an amazing platform to perform on.” – Parent

The following artists were also programmed to perform at Fuse as part of Lichfield Arts’ commitment to supporting young emerging talent:

Downfall 77, Ribbons for Rose, Bo Brothers, Macy O, Joseph Davis, The Vengeance

Some of our previous participants stories:

“Lichfield Arts has always supported young talent. Some of my first experiences performing live in various bands to an audience were at lichfield Arts Centre back in the 1980s. This probably ignited my interest in Lichfield Arts which began in earnest in the early 2000s helping to organise the Fuse Festival and then becoming a trustee. I worked in various roles and now want to put something back supporting our current young, local talent”

– Tim Perks, Trustee and Emerging Talent lead

How can you get involved?

Keep an eye on this page and socials for opportunities and events to take part in or to support. If you are under 25 and have a talent get in touch! 

How can you support Lichfield Arts Emerging Talent

Come along and support and event. Lichfield Arts always welcomes support financially or in kind. If you are interested in supporting our Emerging Talent programme please get in touch!

Contact us via: [email protected]