The Intimate Venues Hosting The Next Big Thing: East of England
Posted on Friday 3rd May 2024 at 16:00
Written by
Jimi Arundell
Grassroots gig spots are central to communities, bringing local people together to celebrate music and enjoy arts and culture. Gigantic Tickets looks to the East and praises the intimate venues in the region hosting the rising stars and breakthrough bands you need to know.
If you want to see live music in your area, click the link below to check out the best gigs and festivals to suit your tastes. And get the big announcements sent to your email when you subscribe to our newsletter.
Waterfront
The vibrant venue found on the bank of the River Wensum
Waterfront, Norwich's premier alternative venue since 1993, operated by the Union of UEA Students and sister to the UEA LCR, has welcomed iconic bands like Pulp, Radiohead, and Nirvana. This year, don't miss performances from Bay City Rollers, Jim Bob, and Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, continuing its legacy as the region's top destination for live music.
CLICK HERE for full listings at Waterfront.
Epic Studios
Epic by name, epic by nature
Epic Studios stands as Norwich’s ultimate destination for live entertainment, boasting a diverse lineup of music, sports, comedy, theatre, bingo, and more. With the best sound system in East Anglia, Epic Studios consistently delivers top-notch live events, both globally and locally. This year, catch electrifying performances from The Royston Club, When Rivers Meet, and Samantha Fish
CLICK HERE for full listings at Epic Studios.
The Castle
Live music in the heart of Luton
The Castle reigns as Luton's beloved live music hotspot, consistently showcasing a plethora of local bands and talent from across the nation. Its stage has witnessed countless unforgettable performances over the years. This year, attendees are urged not to miss shows by The Dog Cat Scene and Black Coast for an extraordinary evening of live music.
CLICK HERE for full listings at The Castle.
Colchester Arts Centre
The spectacular setting for gigs in Essex
Colchester Arts Centre, dubbed the "little church with the big attitude" in Essex, defies norms by featuring diverse acts from children's entertainers to metal bands in a single day. From morning vinyl sessions to evening comedy clubs, it's a venue where folk knitting collides with teenage mosh pits. Amidst the historic architecture of St Mary's Church, catch performances by The Brit Funk Association and Nine Below Zero, & Dr. Feelgood on their Maximum R&B Tour.
CLICK HERE for full listings at Colchester Arts Centre.
Corn Exchange
One of East Anglia's most prestigious venues
Nestled in Ipswich's centre, the Corn Exchange features the town's largest and most versatile space, the Grand Hall. From standing gigs to comedy shows and club nights, it offers unparalleled versatility. Catch performances spanning ska and reggae with The Dualers to progressive rock with Rick Wakeman, promising an eclectic lineup for all tastes.
CLICK HERE for full listings at Corn Exchange.
MASH
The only independent club and live music venue in Cambridge
Emerging from humble origins, MASH's creators prioritise a welcoming and inclusive venue. They foster unity among Cambridge's diverse community on the dancefloor. With a 480-person capacity and cutting-edge sound and light systems, MASH embodies originality and loves showcasing talent. Catch indie singer-songwriter Willie J Healey and folk-punk band Ferocious Dog as they grace the stage this May.
CLICK HERE for full listings at MASH.
Esquires
Bedford’s beloved independent grassroots music venue
Bedford Esquires, a cherished UK grassroots venue since 1990, offers three unique rooms pulsating with indie rock, electronica, metal, jazz, hip-hop, and folk. As an independent beacon, it champions diverse music scenes. Later this year, catch Clash tribute icons London Calling and London's post-punk revivalists, Fat Dog, for unforgettable performances. Esquires remains a vital hub, uniting music enthusiasts in its vibrant atmosphere.
CLICK HERE for full listings at Weymouth Pavilion.
Junction
A major player in the Cambridge music scene
Cambridge Junction and Cambridge Junction 2, beacons of originality and inclusivity, offer a vibrant array of arts and cultural experiences. As charities and centres of excellence for youth engagement, they foster artistic development and community cohesion. This year, don't miss captivating performances by The Mission, Afro Celt Sound System, and Iron & Wine, as Cambridge Junction continues to inspire and unite communities through creativity.
CLICK HERE for full listings at Cambridge Junction.
CLICK HERE for full listings at Junction 2.