Ball Park Music returned to Newcastle over the weekend for an unforgettable performance as part of The ACT series of events.
Held at the stunning Earp Distilling Co., The ACT blends the intimacy of a secret show with the polish of a curated industry showcase, offering both emerging and established acts a platform that prioritises storytelling, connection, and sonic quality.
The concept behind The ACT is simple but powerful: strip back the chaos of the traditional gig and spotlight the artist in a setting where music is the main event. No background pub chatter. No phones allowed. Just the band, the songs, and an audience who’s actually listening. That’s exactly what made Ball Park Music’s performance so special.
Upon check in, the friendly staff members explained the concept and covered the cameras on patrons’ phones with stickers, as we were encouraged to live in the moment and foster the culture of this special event. Stepping into the performance space, we were met with a small, square stage in the middle of the room. The set-up immediately elicited excitement and anticipation amongst the audience, who quickly secured their spot standing around the stage.
The band leaned into the atmosphere with a set that felt warm, emotional, and at times joyfully unhinged. Tracks from their new album Like Love – including Coast Is Clear and Overwhelming Sound felt right at home in the moody, intimate space. Each lyric landed with weight, helped by the venue’s pristine acoustics and a crowd that hung on every word.
The band’s five-piece harmonies were truly goosebump-inducing, as we were taken on a journey of new and old fan favourites.
Of course, classics like It’s Nice to Be Alive and Exactly How You Are turned the room into a euphoric sing-along, reminding everyone just how beloved this band remains after over a decade in the game. Frontman Sam Cromack’s banter was relaxed and heartfelt, clearly feeding off the energy of a room that was there for the music, not the Instagram story.
The setup of The ACT encourages this kind of connection. Limited tickets, an intimate layout, and thoughtful staging mean artists can experiment with dynamics, pacing, and audience interaction in a way that’s rarely possible in traditional pub or theatre settings. It’s part listening party, part live show, and completely refreshing.
Ball Park Music’s set at The ACT wasn’t just a gig – it was a reminder of why we fall in love with live music in the first place. Honest, immersive, and musically rich, this show set a high bar for live music. To find out more about The ACT visit theactnewcastle.com.
