'It's one of the standout occasions for the city': Millennium Square gears up for huge summer of shows

The festival will start in the city centre this Friday 🎶

A spectacular outdoor stage has appeared in Millennium Square as a fortnight of star-studded live music returns to Leeds next week.

The Summer Series will take place in Leeds city centre from June 26 until July 11 and feature a range of star-studded performances including Bananarama and Tom Odell.

The festival will kick off this Friday, June 26, with Club Classical Ibiza, where dance music classics meet live orchestral performance, curated by Utah Saints and performed with the Orchestra of Opera North and special guests.

The Summer Series will start in Millennium Square on Friday June 26placeholder image
The Summer Series will start in Millennium Square on Friday June 26 | Leeds City Council

Then, on Saturday June 27, audiences can expect 80s Classical, featuring iconic hits performed by Bananarama, Nik Kershaw, Johnny Hates Jazz and Nick Heyward, bringing a night of nostalgia to Millennium Square.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, June 28, Classics in the Square will showcase much-loved classical music from Jurassic Park and Star Wars to The Sound of Music, Carmen and many more in a pay-what-you-can event.

Across the following weeks, the Square will welcome a line-up of acclaimed artists and bands to Leeds city centre as part of the ‘Sounds Of The City’ concert series, including Dylan Gossett, Alabama Shakes, Tom Odell, Wet Leg, The Human League and The Cribs, all performing alongside special guests.

A spectacular outdoor stage has appeared in Millennium Square ahead of the Summer Seriesplaceholder image
A spectacular outdoor stage has appeared in Millennium Square ahead of the Summer Series | Leeds City Council

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, said: “The Summer Series is always one of the standout occasions for the city, bringing Millennium Square to life with a spectacular and exciting programme of artists and performances.

“It’s incredible to see audiences experiencing live music outdoors at the heart of the city centre and we can’t wait to see everyone enjoying what will be an unforgettable summer.”

This year's festival will see performances from artists such as Bananarama and Tom Odellplaceholder image
This year's festival will see performances from artists such as Bananarama and Tom Odell | Leeds City Council

Spanning genres from indie, alternative, country and pop to orchestral and dance performances, the Summer Series offers something for a wide range of music fans.

A range of street food catering concessions, together with a fully licensed bar, will also be available within the specially created outdoor arena.

The venue in Millennium Square is designed to be accessible and includes a raised viewing platform, accessible toilet facilities and Mobile Changing Places.

Full accessibility information and companion ticket details are available on the venue website or Leeds Ticket Hub.

Tickets for all events, along with full line‑up details, are available to purchase online.

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