Black Creative Trailblazers (BCT) is bringing its flagship Showcase back to Aviva Studios on 4th September 2026, for one unforgettable night of live music, fashion, dance and culture that has become a fixture on Manchester’s creative calendar.
This showcase is the culmination of an 8-week development programme that has spent the
summer equipping a new generation of Black creatives with mentorship, industry access and a platform to launch their careers. From electrifying live sets to bold runway moments, the 2026 Showcase is set to be the biggest yet.
Founded to confront the persistent underrepresentation of Black voices across the creative industries, Black Creative Trailblazers CIC has spent years building more than an event, it’s built a community. Their annual showcase shines a spotlight on the remarkable work of Black artists, musicians, poets, dancers, fashion designers and more.
With a network of over 1,000 creatives across the North of England, BCT exists to make sure Black artists are seen, celebrated, and critically supported into sustainable careers.
The 2026 Showcase builds on the momentum of previous sold-out editions, returning bigger, bolder and with its most ambitious line-up yet. Including:
● Dance — Acclaimed choreographers Yin Yang Twins, known for their work with Shensea at the
MOBO Awards, bring two original pieces to the Showcase stage.
● Live Performances — Rising stars David Okodeh (Love Manchester Award winner) and Jennifer
Iguodala (MOBO Talent Programme alumna) deliver a night of music and spoken word that
doesn’t hold back.
● Fashion — Bold, uncompromising runway presentations from fashion designers
● DJ Sets — Afrobeats, R&B and Amapiano all night courtesy of renowned Manchester DJ and
Radio Host, Kemoy B.
● Community & Networking — A space built for connection with creatives, cultural leaders and
changemakers, all in one room.
Ronke Jane Adelakun, Founder and Editor of Black Creative Trailblazers CIC said “Black Creative Trailblazers isn’t just a showcase, it’s a movement. We’re building a platform that doesn’t just celebrate Black creativity – it invests in it. Every showcase is another step toward sustainable
pathways for the next generation of talent.”
With Factory International and Sister Manchester on board as partners, the 2026 edition is set to be
BCT’s most ambitious yet uniting culture, creativity and community for one unforgettable night in
Manchester.
Tickets for the Black Creative Trailblazers Showcase 2026 are on sale now.
Follow @BlackCreativeTrailblazers on Instagram for line-up drops, ticket updates and
behind-the-scenes access.
