The Great Escape Conference has unveiled its full schedule for 2026, including a keynote conversation between boundary-pushing artist Peaches and TRANS VOICES co-founder ILĀ, which will be hosted by The Independent.
Moderated by The Independent’s music editor Roisin O’Connor, the conversation with Peaches and ILĀ – held on Friday 15 May in Brighton – will span matters of identity and representation within the music industry.
The Independent is also hosting Peaches’ spotlight stage for The Great Escape Festival at the Brighton Dome later that evening, with support from Bimini, along with a showcase at beachfront venue Daltons highlighting upcoming talent such as Twat Union, SLAG and Girl Tones, with more to be announced.
Elsewhere during the conference, the festival will host keynote speakers such as former Spice Girls star and solo artist Melanie C, live agents Emma Banks and Natasha Gregory, and Ian Murray, minister of state for creative industries, media and arts.
As the festival marks its 20th anniversary edition, The Great Escape Conference will bring together leading industry figures, artists and innovators for three days of networking, discussion and debate into the most pressing issues of the day.
Further highlights will include UK Music’s “Black Music Means Business” discussion and mental health charity CALM’s crucial “Music Saved My Life” panel featuring Nadine Shah and Radiohead’s Ed O’Brien.
Meanwhile, The Great Escape Festival confirmed its full festival schedule with more than 450 acts, from rock bands to rappers, jazz groups and pop singers.
The Independent returns as exclusive news partner with The Great Escape for the fourth consecutive year, and will present the official welcome party for delegates on Brighton Beach on Wednesday 13 May.
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The Independent’s music editor, Roisin O’Connor, says: “I’m overjoyed that The Independent has extended its partnership with The Great Escape festival, continuing our mutual work supporting new talent and celebrating our vital live music scene.
“This year I’m particularly excited that The Independent is hosting a spotlight performance at The Dome from the awesome, pioneering legend Peaches, with support from the thrilling Bimini. We’ll also be championing new artists as always with our matinee show at Daltons. See you there!”
Rory Bett, CEO of MAMA Festivals and VIP Nation Europe, says: “It’s fantastic to be continuing our partnership with The Independent, who share our passion for championing new music and emerging talent.
Their involvement across the festival – from the Beach welcome party, the Peaches Spotlight show at Brighton Dome, to the new music showcase at Daltons – adds real depth to the programme. We’re delighted to be working together again to bring these moments to life at The Great Escape as we celebrate our 20th anniversary this year.”
Tickets for The Great Escape 2026 are available now.
