NEXT! Big Thing FAQs
How can I apply?
All entrants must complete the application form to play at the Amphitheatre:
NEXT! Big Thing Application Form
Do you have to live in the North East to apply?
All entrants must originate from or live in the North East.
When do applications close?
Applications close at 12 midnight on Friday 2 May 2025. No late entries will be accepted.
How much does it cost to apply?
There are no fees / costs to enter your application.
Is there a limit to who can apply?
There is no limit to the number of entrants who wish to apply to perform at the Amphitheatre shows.
However, 16 entrants will be selected to perform at the Amphitheatre shows.
Who is the competition open to?
This is open to soloists, bands, choirs and groups. Any "act" that is of a musical performance.
Is there an age limit?
The NEXT! Big Thing is open to all ages.
Any performers or band / group members under the age of 16 years must confirm when applying.
Is this only open to a specific genre of music?
For performers, all musical genres / styles are welcome to apply.
Please confirm what genre you will be performing on the application form.
When are the Amphitheatre shows taking place?
Entrants must select which date(s) they are able to perform at the Amphitheatre.
How many acts will be chosen to play at the Amphitheatre shows?
Up to 16 acts will be selected to perform at the live Amphitheatre shows on June 5, 7, 14 and 19.
How will those who apply be selected to play at the Amphitheatre shows?
Applicants will be selected to play at the Amphitheatre shows via a scoring matrix.
The judging will be conducted by the South Tyneside Events team.
How will those performing at the Amphitheatre show be selected for the Sunday concert?
From the Amphitheatre a shortlist of performers will be selected by the South Tyneside Events team and representatives from the music community.
Those shortlisted and chosen will be confirmed by Kim McGuiness, Mayor of the North East Combined Authority.
Shortlisting will also include all acts agreeing to be recorded at the Amphitheatre shows. This will be used as part of the next selection stage.
Will I / my band / group / choir be promoted at the Amphitheatre shows?
Yes, the NEXT! Big Thing will be promoted across the North East.
All performers are strongly encouraged to promote their Amphitheatre performance.
South Tyneside Events social media will 'share' promotional posts by performers. Please make sure that you identify your platforms in the application form.
If you / your band / choir or group does not have a social media presence - promotion will include dedicated social media posts via our South Tyneside Events and specific advertising posts.
What happens if I / my band / choir or group are not successful at being selected for an Amphitheatre show?
Can I claim travel expenses to attend the performance?
Yes, our Events team will discuss this, once you are successful through the application process.
When will applicants be notified?
Applicants will be notified by Friday 9 May 2025 if they are successful in performing at the Amphitheatre shows.
Can I ask for feedback about my submission?
All entries will receive feedback as part of the notification procedure.
What if I perform at the Amphitheatre but not successful in performing at the Sunday concert
Those not selected to perform at a Sunday concert can consent to South Tyneside Events team retaining details for any possible future opportunities to perform through external promoters.
We are hoping to invite all acts who have taken part in the Next Big Thing Amphitheatre shows to a designate location where a panel of established musicians alongside local people who work more "behind the scenes" will give acts ideas on how to progress their musical journey.
More information
If you have any more queries, please contact: events@southtyneside.gov.uk