Tees Folk returns to Stockton Globe on Saturday 19th September, bringing a carefully curated line-up of world-class folk and acoustic music to the North East. The one-night showcase brings together established favourites and exciting regional talent for an evening that promises plenty of variety.
Headlining are Mercury Prize-nominated and internationally acclaimed group The Unthanks, making their first appearance at Stockton Globe. Built around the traditional upbringing of Tyneside sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank, alongside the arrangements and writing of composer, pianist and producer Adrian McNally, the group’s distinctive sound moves effortlessly between folk, jazz, classical, ambient and post-rock. They will bring their full ten-piece live band for what promises to be a spectacular finale.
Also on the bill is Amelia Coburn, a returning favourite of Tees Folk, having captivated audiences at the inaugural event in 2023. Following a sold-out solo headline UK tour in early 2026, as well as support slots with Paul Weller, Suzanne Vega and The Proclaimers, she returns with her quintessentially North Eastern persona and sound, combining witty songwriting with gothic folk and theatrical pop.
British folk guitarist John Smith makes his first appearance at Stockton Globe after two decades at the forefront of British folk guitar. Born in Essex, raised in Devon and honing his craft in Liverpool, he has amassed more than 125 million Spotify streams. His deeply romantic songwriting and innovative fingerstyle guitar have earned him a loyal following worldwide.
Completing the bill is East Cleveland native Dale Husband, aka Glad Town Ghost. His distinctive sound combines American folk influences with storytelling rooted in the provincial northernisms and post-industrial landscapes of his home region. His latest single, ‘Exam Papers’, released in June 2026, is a particularly striking example of his ability to blend intimate songwriting with darker themes.
With everything from delicate fingerstyle guitar and intimate songwriting to expansive arrangements and genre-defying folk, Tees Folk 2026 promises a varied and memorable evening. The event runs from 6.15pm, with Glad Town Ghost opening proceedings, followed by John Smith, Amelia Coburn and The Unthanks.
Tees Folk offers festival-scale musical variety in the more intimate surroundings of Stockton Globe, showcasing artists from the North East alongside acclaimed performers from further afield.
Tees Folk 2026 takes place at Stockton Globe on Saturday 19th September.
Tickets, priced from £37.96 in advance, are available at stocktonglobe.co.uk.
