The Great Escape

The UK's new-music showcase (Brighton): first-look festival for UK agents, promoters and A&Rs; hundreds of unsigned and early-stage slots each May.

Best for: UK agents and A&Rs seeing you live first. Export-ready emerging artists with a polished live set, current momentum, professional support and a clear plan to develop the UK or European market.
Skip if: No UK strategy or team behind the trip. You are very early-stage, need a well-paid conventional festival booking, cannot fund a Brighton trip or lack specific industry contacts and follow-up plans.
First move: Apply early; unofficial showcases fill fast too. Apply through the official form by February 15, 2027, using your strongest music, live video and recent career highlights. Start approaching export offices, showcase partners and target industry contacts before selection results arrive.
Watch out: Selection is highly competitive, individual feedback is not provided and no response by March 31 means the application was unsuccessful. Confirm payment and credential terms if offered a slot. Brighton accommodation can be expensive, and crowded schedules and small-capacity venues may limit attendance.
Reach: Established
When: Worth it once you are growing an audience.
Based in: United Kingdom