The Future Stage
The Future Stage has evolved over the last few years from humble beginnings as a young performer’s showcase in the Ents area.
It's now a major area, marquee and stage in its own right that attracts thousands of people each year to see the local stars of the future.
Each year from Midday until 10pm, over 100 eight to eighteen year olds perform many different types of music, dance and more.
Behind the scenes, and in the outside chill-out area on the day, more young people (and a few old folks) help run the area and create the art and decorations.
We believe the Future Stage Performers put on the most cutting edge performances on the day and they are the future of the Fair.
In 2006 the 18 (18 and under) acts on the stage provided 10 different genres of music and dance. It started with a primary school punk band, MC, Free style break dancers, grime/hip hop and Motown singers/rappers, and ended with a crowd-surfing indie headline band playing to over a thousand people!
In 2007 another 18 acts included World Music, all sorts of rock bands, Acoustic acts, A drum band, national singing contest winners, bagpipes and yet another fantastic crowd.
In 2008 19 Acts entertained a packed marquee with the crop of local young rappers, acoustic singer/songwriters , dancers, and the usual extremely talented and crowd-pleasing assortment of punk, rock, folk, indie, funk and alternative bands. The Outside Chill out area was extended to include more space for juggling, Poi, art and sculptures from local young artists and performers. The day was captured on film by a young photographer, and supported by the Young Lives organisation and the RNID.
We are aiming to build on the success of the last few years by sticking to what appears to be a winning format, with a few extras and improvements thrown in to make the 2009 Future Stage even more entertaining for you.
Contacting the Future Stage
If you would like to help out, by providing time, skills or resources please contact us. Also if you have any questions or comments about the Future Stage, please contact us. We have a very limited budget so any help and assistance will be very welcome. We like offers of free equipment, we love people who want to be stewards (especially if you have CRB Clearance), we admire Arty people who help to make the area look cool, and what about an 18 or under photography or Media student or two who could capture the day on film? If you think you can help, email: .
The Future Stage Operatives
Rockin' Mike Wilson coordinates the Future Stage
George manages the Stage
