Newcastle Next will put the spotlight firmly on emerging talent as the Newcastle Fringe Festival teams up with the National Music Academy for an all-ages showcase celebrating the region’s rising young artists.
Taking over The Exchange in Hamilton in March, the event will deliver a packed four-hour lineup of short, punchy sets spanning grunge, progressive metal, indie pop, and classic rock.
Designed as an alcohol-free, inclusive space, the showcase gives school-aged musicians the chance to perform on a professional festival stage while connecting with new audiences.
Among the standout acts is teen grunge outfit JETLAG, fresh from winning Bandwidth 2025 and building momentum across local stages.
Returning for their second year at Newcastle Next, they’re now gearing up to release their debut single and music video, proving their upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing.
Also on the bill is newly formed five-piece 5 Volts, whose members swap instruments mid-set and channel influences ranging from The Beatles to Green Day.
They’re joined by Glycerine from the Hunter School of Performing Arts, whose guitar-driven sets draw on the polish and power of 90s rock icons.
Fans of heavier sounds can dive into the intricate riffs and tight rhythms of progressive metal trio Dreamcore, while 13-year-old multi-instrumentalist Laila Michelini brings a strikingly mature blend of pop, R&B and indie.
Named a Triple J Unearthed Artist Pick in 2025 and currently mentored by respected Australian music manager John Watson, her growing profile highlights the depth of talent emerging in the region.
Rounding out the lineup are high-energy rockers Anunnaki, sibling outfit Indelible and powerhouse five-piece STOMP.
Newcastle Next will run from 5pm on Wednesday, 18 March at The Exchange, Hamilton. The event is all-ages and alcohol-free, with tickets available now at newcastlefringe.com.au as part of the Newcastle Fringe Festival program.
