Vibe Spring 2026

Richard Abbey Executive Editor

SHEFFIELD CENTREPIECE

After public consultation in December, Urban Splash’s plans for the former Cole Brothers building await further approval

DIY SPIRIT AND COLLABORATIVE ENERGY

With a new album and tour in the next few months, we caught up with Nubiyan Twist’s bandleader Tom Excell

YOU’RE TWISTING MY MELON, MAN

Ahead of their 35th anniversary March tour of Pills ‘n’ Thrills And Bellyaches, Richard Abbey caught up with Happy Mondays frontman, Shaun Ryder

BEYOND BOUNDARIES

It may have left Leadmill Road but the Leadmill brand lives on. We spoke to

St Etienne, The Lemonheads, Goldie Lookin’ Chain and Overpass among the

Mike

SHEFFIELD CENTREPIECE

After public consultation in December, Urban Splash’s plans for the former Cole Brothers building await further approval.

fter a public consultation in December 2025, Urban Splash are currently ploughing through the

former John Lewis store in Barkers Pool.

On the surface the plans sound exciting and will give the listed space a new lease of life.

Their vision is simple: to restore Cole Brothers to its rightful place as a centrepiece and focal point of city life.

above; and a few surprises dotted around in the basement and the roof.

department stores and bringing new life to grand old listed structures – back in

colossal Fort Dunlop in Birmingham and

icons, Park Hill,” said a spokesperson for Urban Splash.

The developers aim to retain and reuse as much of the building fabric as possible –from the superstructure to the envelope and many internal partitions. Where elements have reached the end of their life, or limit

removed. Everything else stays, celebrated and put back to work.

A new atrium – cut through the upper

linking levels physically and visually. It brings light, air and nature deep into the systems and creating healthier, more uplifting spaces.

Large, singular retail spaces will be

while previously hidden areas – the basement and loading bay – are opened up to create new public-facing spaces. The result is a more engaging, connected

streetscape that brings the building and the city closer together.

range of occupancy models, while generous

create inspiring, productive environments. Finally, the roof will be transformed into accessible public space, with a restaurant or bar and external terrace reached via the main lift core. Future uses will build on this, enhancing rooftop activity,

“This is not a building with a single script,” further added the spokesperson. to be shaped in collaboration with the

is a building adaptable enough to evolve, and inclusive enough to welcome all ideas, from practical to ambitious and everything in between.”

DIY SPIRIT AND COLLABORATIVE ENERGY

They may have formed in Leeds but Nubiyan Twist’s roots still are very much reach

new album release is a The new LP, Chasing Shadows, is out in March, tell us about the album.

Where was it recorded?

You have a new lead vocalist – Eniola – what does she bring to the band?

And you have a long list of collaborators – how did those come about?

And then you’re out on tour, locally

You have big connections with both cities?

being a band, how often do you get together?

what about everyone else, are they spread around the country?

Being so many of you, does that help or hinder the creative process?

How does that work in terms of

And what about being on tour

together, is that a harmonious tour bus?

when you started?

Do you write while you’re on tour or is the focus purely on the live shows?

Will there be any further shows after the tour (festivals etc)?

How would you describe your live shows?

Tom, you wear multiple hats as a composer, producer, guitarist, percussionist and more, do you thrive on that?

And what does the future hold for Nubiyan Twist?

You’ve been together for over 15 years, does it still feel as fresh as

Nubiyan Twist’s new album, Chasing Shadows, is released on 20 March on Strut Records. The tour starts on 22 April (21 May).

YOU’RE TWISTING MY MELON, MAN

Ahead of their 35th anniversary March tour of Pills ‘n’ Thrills And Bellyaches, Richard Abbey caught up with Happy Mondays frontman, Shaun Ryder.

ife is good for Shaun Ryder right now. Well, almost. As I speak to him he’s fresh from touring with Black

“I’m Codeined up to the max and am feeling a bit s***,” he says in his familiar Salford twang.

[Turns out, in the weeks following our interview, Shaun was diagnosed with pneumonia and was treated accordingly.]

But that aside, he’s thoroughly enjoyed being back on tour with Kermit and the boys but is gearing up for something even bigger in 2026.

Starting 13 March, the Happy Mondays will be setting out on a 22-date tour to mark the 35th anniversary of Pills ‘n’ Thrills And Bellyaches, the the ‘Madchester’ period of the late 1980s/1990s.

The critically-acclaimed album – the third by the Mondays – saw Shaun Ryder and co collaborate with Steve Osborne and DJ Paul Oakenfold and spawn hits such as Kinky Afro, Loose Fit and Step On.

Asked whether it was inspired by Manchester and the scene at the time – bands like the Stone Roses, Inspiral Carpets and 808 State were already in full swing – Shaun was quick to dismiss this notion.

recalls. “It was more through what was going on places like Ibiza and us going down to London at weekends where Oakey was DJing. We’d always took our music from everywhere, it was Bob Dylan and Public Enemy or Sweet and Showaddywaddy or Northern Soul.

drug that came along for us at the time. That was our special time, it was my generation’s 1967/68 and everything changed – music, culture, dress… you started growing your hair and

The Happy Mondays were signed to Factory Records and Shaun has fond

call a greatest hits set if you can call it that, we didn’t really have any great hits!” Shaun laughs. “We do stuff from Squirrel and G Man, we always do one or two from Bummed, because we always do Wrote For Luck…

“We do change it around every now and then, I let Dan, our musical director, choose the set so it surprises me sometimes. We’ve got so much to choose from.”

Shaun was just 18 when the Happy Mondays started, now 63, touring with the band is now a different experience but is one he wouldn’t change.

“I enjoy it more than ever now,” he says. “The sex and drugs have gone and we’re just left with rock ‘n’

running around like 20-year-olds in our sixties, it wouldn’t look right, would it?”

Shaun is still buzzing from the Black Grape tour, so how easy is it to slip between the two bands?

“It’s actually three,” Shaun reminds me. “I’ve got Mantra of the Cosmos as well, with Zak Starkey and Andy Bell. But Black Grape has always been easier than the Mondays because it’s just me and Kermit, in the Mondays you’ve got a group of people who all have a say.

because we admired Tony and the bands on it. He was the dude.”

“We were at a Buzzcocks gig in Belle Vue, which must have been the late seventies,” says Shaun. “I had a plastic pint of lager in my hand and I threw it at him to get his attention. We wanted Factory

albums between 1987 and 2007 and while the focus on this tour will be very on Pills ‘n’ Thrills And Bellyaches, the band will be including plenty of other crowd-pleasers too.

“What we do now, it’s sort of what we

“But it’s great to have them all going, it feels as exciting now as it was at the beginning. And it keeps me out of the house!”

If you think Happy Mondays fans are limited to those of a certain age, you’d be wrong. Bez’s appearance on Big Brother nearly 20 years ago and Shaun’s runner-up stint in the jungle in 2010 opened up the band to a whole new audience.

“Our fanbase now goes from eight to 80,” says Shaun.

Supporting the Happy Mondays on this tour are The Farm and Northside, both of whom supported the band at their legendary 1991 concert at Elland Road, Leeds.

The tour promises to be one for the ages and, regardless of age, will leave you stepping on well into the night.

visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk

It may have left Leadmill Road but the Leadmill brand lives on. We spoke to comedy

READY, SET, GO...

St Etienne, The Lemonheads, Goldie Lookin’ Chain

lectric Studios has dropped its

JAZZ WEEKENDER

of the Pennines. Buxton International Festival’s Jazz Weekender is a must-visit.

hether a long-time jazz enthusiast or someone curious to explore the genre, the Buxton International Festival Jazz Weekender offers space to discover new sounds, revisit classics and encounter some of the UK’s most exciting musicians up close. car.

Hotel, right in the heart of Buxton opposite

that jazz thrives on.

Artists performing include Laura Jurd, Bhezinska.

electric. The Jazz Weekender programme

There is also a special performance from

people right up close to the music,” said intimate spaces and some of the UK’s most exciting musicians coming together. It’s of live jazz.”

One weekend ticket provides access

This special package offers audiences the chance to immerse themselves in an entire weekend of exceptional live music at an starting from £30.

settling in for the full weekend, audiences

chance to hear music that moves, surprises scene, all in a unique Buxton setting.”

Full a full programme listing and ticket

01298 72190 or visit buxtonfestival.co.uk/ whats-on/jazz-weekender

SHARING A FLAT CAN BE MURDER...

From the producer of the hit stage adaptation of The Girl on the Train, Single White Female is the gripping new stage thriller inspired by the

This is my villain era,” says Kym Marsh, with a laugh so warm it is hard to imagine the multi-talented actress with her friendly, likeable persona, being remotely villainous.

Yet, in her latest role, as Hedy, in the world premiere stage adaptation of the iconic Nineties’ psychological thriller, Single White Female, audiences are in for a surprise and are going to be unsure whether she’s friend or foe.

The play is about to begin a six-month tour of the UK, taking in 21 venues across the country. It tells the story of recently divorced mum Allie, who is trying to juggle childcare with starting a new business. When she advertises for a lodger to help make ends meet, along comes the seemingly delightful Hedy - but quickly we see that all is not as it seems and their new friendship takes a sinister turn.

So, does portraying someone who appears lovely but might have a darker side come hard to Kym, who was one of the most popular characters, Michelle Connor, in Coronation Street for 13 years, has won a multitude of acting awards and, amongst other things, has starred in Waterloo Road, Strictly Come Dancing and presented BBC One’s Morning Live?

“Actually the last few roles I have done have been pretty villainous and I love it,” she says.

“It’s so easy to play the typical

“It’s so easy to play the typical moustache twiddler. But I want to make Hedy a little bit more layered and actually have people be a bit taken aback, unsure if she’s good or bad right up to the last minute.”

moustache twiddler. But I want to make Hedy a little bit more layered and actually have people be a bit taken aback, unsure if she’s good or bad right up to the last minute and even feeling sorry for her, particularly near the end. So, it is a bit more complex and nuanced than you might imagine.”

How did she end up being asked to take on such an interesting and chilling role, that thrilled audiences in the 1992 worldwide hit movie?

“After I played Alex Forrest in the stage version of Fatal Attraction, we started to have discussions about what potential other projects there might be and we came up with the idea of Single White Female because it had never been done before,” she explains.

“It was also within that kind of genre

impact on people at that time. So I have been attached to it from the start and it’s really exciting - the character of Hedy is so interesting and challenging to play.

“Without giving too much away to character is very complex and, from an acting point of view, it gives me an opportunity to explore so many different places that you don’t necessarily really go to normally.”

The new, stage version of Single White Female will appeal to a new generation who have never seen the movie, but it will also give a new perspective to fans of the author, journalist and broadcaster, Rebecca Reid, with a focus on social media, playing on the themes of ambition, identity and isolation through that lens.

Kym says this has done more than just give it a contemporary spin, it actually makes the story feel even more relevant.

“There obviously wasn’t social media back in the 90s,” she says. “But if you know the essence of the plot and what it’s about, it works very well because we see people trying to imitate people’s lives online all the time.

“We hear about these stories of people are elements of that within Single White Female that make it feel up to date and its themes are even more relevant today than they were then.

“I think the world of social media is a wonderful place, but it’s also to be handled with care, because there is always that element of danger about it. And when you have a character like Hedy, and then you put social media into her hands, it can be tricky to the point of dangerous.”

Will fans of the original still recognise be treated to the iconic stiletto moment?

Kym laughs. “The essence is very much still the same. But the story is slightly changed - as well as being more up-to-date, it’s based in the UK rather than being in America. So there are differences but the big, important, epic moments are still in there. And it’s very much still a thriller with a real shock factor - we want to have people on the edge of their seats. I think people will still very much love the story the iconic stiletto moment - you’ll have to wait and see!”

Kym says that having been in several stage productions recently, including Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party, has given her a real love of the stage, while she continues to enjoy her television career.

“I’m so lucky that I am able to enjoy

both being in front of the camera and also being on stage,” she says. “Obviously on stage you get an instant kind of reaction which is very rewarding - you know immediately how much people are enjoying what you’re doing when you are on stage. Television can be very different from that. But there is a real buzz being on stage, you get that atmosphere straight away. And I really like travelling around, seeing different places and some beautiful theatres. It’s interesting that everywhere you go, the audience reacts differently to different parts. Then again, in front of a camera you always get to go again!”

So even now, she gets nervous?

“Of course I do!” she admits. “Theatre is way more nerve wracking, that’s for sure. My dad passed away last year and I have found myself standing in the wings before I go on stage saying, “Come on Dad, come on Dad.” Because you want to feel that someone is helping you out when you are out there, you really hope that nothing’s going to go wrong, that you give a great performance and people enjoy it.”

Aged 49, Kym has not stopped working since she auditioned for the TV show Popstars, 25 years ago, joining the band Hear’Say. She says she is grateful that she has such a warm reception from the British public.

“I feel very fortunate and very lucky that I’ve been allowed to have the career that I’ve had and to have been received in the way that I have,” says the mother-of-three, who is also a grandma.

“I think maybe it’s because I come across as a sincere individual. I’ve never tried to hide anything. I make mistakes and hold my hands up and I think that gives me a girl next door feel - perhaps everyone knows someone a bit like me.

“I was brought up by a family who are very caring and open. My family means everything to me. I absolutely adore my kids and my grandchildren. I think I try to only ever be caring and open, too, when I’m being interviewed or meeting new people, because, to be honest, I don’t know how to be anything else!”

There are many places on the Single White Female Tour that Kym is excited to visit - particularly Brighton’s Theatre Royal where the play opens in January and, as she hails from the North West, Manchester, Liverpool and Blackpool venues will be special. But the very last night of the tour will be particularly memorable for her in more ways than one.

“We will be in Malvern and it’s my 50th birthday,” she explains. “I am not sure exactly what we will be doing that night

won’t be quite as peaceful as it usually is!”

Single White Female visits the Lyceum Kym with co-star Lisa Faulkner Image courtesy Seamus Ryan

THEATRE:

THE LADIES FOOTBALL CLUB

With World War 1 forcing men onto

constructing the bombs and the bullets.

When they start kicking a football around on their lunch breaks, it soon becomes clear that it’s not just positions it’s on the football pitch too. Finding unexpected strength through their new passion and teamwork they end up playing to crowds of over 50,000, all the time unaware something is looming that will blow the whistle on their beautiful game.

Written by Stefano Massini and adapted by Tim Firth this brand-new

not always the one on the scoreboard at full time.

LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL

The iconic international West End and Broadway smash hit musical comedy is back in fashion with a huge new production starring Amber Davies as Elle.

This ultimate feel-good rom-com, based Witherspoon, follows Elle Woods on her transformation from It Girl fashionista to legal ace at Harvard Law School, all in the name of love. Elle must prove she is more than blonde ambition, swap the changing rooms for the courtroom and learn that ‘being true to yourself never goes out of style.’

This must-see show is from the creative team behind Director Nikolai Foster’s phenomenally successful Kinky Boots.

LIVING

into that big old house on Burngreave Road. Just turned 20, a couple of babies on the way, they’ve got their whole lives ahead of them. But living is a funny business. Kids, money, work. Thatcherism, Blairism and Trump. As the world turns around them, will Kathy and Brian keep their home together through

OPERATION MINCEMEAT

Singin’ in the Rain meets Strangers on a Train, Operation Mincemeat is the fast-paced, hilarious and unbelievable true story of the twisted secret mission that won us World War II. Bursting at the seams with the kind of chaos you couldn’t invent, the question is: how did a dead body, a fake love letter, and - of all people - Ian Fleming come together to wrong-foot Hitler?

Operation Mincemeat is the 2024 Olivier Award-winning Best New Musical. It’s London’s biggest hit with reviewed show in West End history.

SUMMER HOLIDAY THE MUSICAL

good musical of the year.

Aboard a double decker bus, Don and his friends are on a fun-packed trip to Paris, The Alps, Italy and Greece, in search of a good time and a brilliant summer. On the way they encounter pop bands, runaway pop stars and of course holiday romance.

and featuring classic hits such as Summer Holiday, The Young Ones and Living Doll, Summer Holiday really is the happiest of all the musicals.

SIX THE MUSICAL

The crowning glory of Broadway, the West End and beyond, the international smash hit musical SIX makes its royal return to sell out success.

From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red.

DANCE: FOOD/DRINK: DIVERSITY SOUL 2026

INDIE BEER FEAST

The celebrated festival is known for its dedication to showcasing a diverse range of craft beers from independent breweries.

SHEFFIELD COCKTAIL WEEK

Unlock £5 cocktails at the city’s best bars and restaurants. Experience the very best of day long exclusive event.

SHEFFIELD FOOD FESTIVAL

its 15th year as one of the city’s biggest FREE events for all ages. This year’s event will feature over activities.

THE GRAVES PARK FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL

The Graves Park Food & Drink Festival is a family friendly celebration of international expressed through international food, independent drink, live music, arts and charity.

The UK’s most successful dance group will bring their new concept tour SOUL to 31 towns and cities, performing over

intelligence, what the future holds, and what it truly means to be human within the digital age.

EVENTS:

SHEFFIELD KRAZY RACES

as teams race downhill, navigating tight of thousands of spectators. Teams will compete for Best Dressed, Best Design, and Fastest Kart, with the top ten battling trophy.

proud to be working in partnership with Roundabout, with every penny of team entry and sponsorship money going directly to support their vital work.

CROSSED WIRES – THE PODCAST FESTIVAL

Crossed Wires is a celebration of the podcasts you love, the hosts you can’t stop listening to, and the stories that stay with you long after your headphones are off.

Dig It with Jo Whiley and Zoe Ball, Get a Grip: Bras Off, Bold Politics with Zach Polanski and The Blindboy Podcast.

COMEDY:

AN EVENING WITH RUBY WAX

Don’t miss the incomparable Ruby Wax live on stage for a brilliant, bold and deeply human evening of storytelling, insight and razor-sharp wit. From her trailblazing career as a comedian and TV personality to her work as a bestselling author and mental health campaigner, Ruby will share the moments that shaped her extraordinary life – with humour, heart, and her unmistakable edge.

CLINTON BAPTISTE

Hot on the heels of his fourth sell-out UK tour, the nation’s favourite clairvoyant medium, from Peter Kay’s ‘Phoenix Nights’ is back with a new live show for

MC HAMMERSMITH

MC Hammersmith is the world’s leading freestyle rapper to emerge from the ghetto of middle-class West London. He presents an hour of improvised comedy raps based on your suggestions. You’ll leave astounded at the speed of his brain, the spontaneity of his punchlines, and the stability of his upbringing.

GREG DAVIES

City Hall shows in 2025, Greg has Full Fat Legend Tour to the Arena stage in the round show bringing the audience closer to the stage.

CHRIS RAMSEY

Following overwhelming demand (mainly from his wife Rosie who is desperate to get him out of the house), Chris Ramsey will be back on the road show. ‘Here Man’ is the hotly anticipated follow-up to Chris’ last sell-out stand-up tour ‘2020’ which saw him perform to over 100,000 people nationwide (albeit thanks to Covid, not in the year intended and with a slightly regrettable tour title!).

ence & The Flor : SPORRTT:

NETBALL SUPER CUP

providing fans with the opportunity to The Netball Super Cup returns, 2026

honours of the season under one roof.

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDA v SHEFFIELD UNITED

in November 2025 saw the Blades Y AY

they be celebrating victory once ill i om Cannon. T Campbell (2) and W Tyrese triumph 3-0 with goals from

again or can the Owls deliver a shock

a mountain bike gravel event.

BETMGM PREMIER

TS LEAGUE DAR

night of league action on

visiting 17 venues across the UK and s biggest party , with the sport’ 21 May Thursday

record-extending sixth nightly win of s action in ’. Last year Europe next year

great rival Luke Humphries.

Humphries and Littler are set

s showpiece ’ to headline this year

een, Michael Ve alongside Gian van V

van Gerwen, Jonny Clayton, Stephen

Hospital and combines a trail run with s depleted ’ scoreline? Given the latter

SHEFFIELD HALF squad, you can only see this going one p

way out to the boundary of the Peak the city centre but takes runners all the s also one of the most scenic abilities. It’ attracting thousands of runners of all , attended 13-milers in the country MARAATTHON

District National Park.

WORLD SNOOKER

CHAMPIONSHIP

For 17 days each year

mental toughness with an ultimate through a test of endurance, skill and snooker players on the planet go , the very best

player to win the world title, beating . In 2025, Zhao and coveted trophy s most famous goal: to lift the sport’

MUSIC:

IN THE GARDENS RT unting,

Josh Rock and Gerwyn Price

BuntingJoshRockandGerwynPrice

Art in the Gardens is an event T

ARTT: themselves. or crafts direct from the makers to buy the perfect piece of art but also a fantastic opportunity and is not only a great day out many look forward to every year

orld Championship Snooker o

Florence + The M to the city’s Utili as part of the Ev Lead singer Flor joined by Paris P opening the show

Machine will be heading ita Arena on 14 February verybody Scream tour. W rence Weelchwillbe Paloma who will be ws across the 18 dates.

HARRIET RO

OSE

On the back of a supporting the li and The Kaiser C as well as shows Libertines) and R Harriet Rose retu special show at Y

an incredible year W ikes of Robbie Wiilliams Chiefs at major festivals s with Peter Doherty (The Reverend and the Makers, urns home for a very Yeellow Arch.

spare Ronnie seven-time world champion

spare.

ATTHLON SHEFFIELD DUA

THE CRIBS

For the three Jarman brothers, The Cribs has always been a heart-on-sleeve endeavour, documenting a realness and honesty, imbued with a raw spirit and a love for pop melodies, that winks with a healthy skepticism at a world increasingly weighed down by quantity over quality, style over substance. You need only look as far as the new album title for evidence of that.

ALEX JAMES’ BRITPOP CLASSICAL

Alex James’ Britpop Classical brings the unforgettable anthems of the 90’s to life, fusing the raw energy of the era’s biggest hits, with the breathtaking power of the London Concert Orchestra.

Performed by Blur’s Alex James with special guest performances from Phil Daniels, Saffron of Republica and Reef’s Gary Stringer - this unique concert

generation, delivering an electrifying blend of melodies and stunning classical arrangements.

YUNGBLUD

Grammy Award-winning YUNGBLUD, the boundary-pushing artist from Doncaster, has taken the world by storm with two UK number one albums, six billion global Spotify streams, and back-to-back entries in the Billboard

most personal and ambitious project yet - Idols, a genre-defying tour born from a journey of reinvention, rebellion, and radical self-expression.

SHEFFIELD FAKE FESTIVAL

This year is shaping up to be another belter for Fake Festivals who will be welcoming top-notch tributes to Queen, hometown heroes Arctic Monkeys, plus Fleetwood Mac, Green Day, INXS and R.E.M.

TOOTS AND THE MAYTALS FEAT. LEBA HIBBERT

Known for classic reggae songs such Man, Pressure Drop, Funky Kingston, Broadway Jungle, Bam Bam, Time Tough and Reggae Got Soul, Toots and the Maytals are now fronted by Toots’ daughter Leba Hibbert, who has released her own recordings and worked with Sly & Robbie, Jimmy Cliff and more.

NOISE ANNOYS FEST 2026

Noise Annoys - not just another festival… the lineup aims to highlight bands with members from marginalised groups and to give younger Punx who are just starting out some recognition.

BEVERLEY KNIGHT

A testament to her incredible talent and much-loved hits, this unique show will also share inspiring stories from Beverley’s life on the stage. She will perform her biggest hits as well as

favourites from musical theatre and cherished songs which have inspired her journey alongside her legendary live band.

DEF LEPPARD headlining this homecoming show and performing their greatest hits. Support comes from Extreme.

SHEFFIELD FESTIVAL OF REGGAE

After the huge success of last year’s returns with three stages playing the absolute best of reggae, dub, dancehall and roots.

ROCK N ROLL CIRCUS

The circus tent returns to Don Valley far include The Streets (28 August), Wunderhorse (29) and Richard Ashcroft (30 August).

Joining Wunderhorse under the big top will be Baxter Dury, English Teacher and Fat Dog whilst The Fratellis and CAST Ashcroft.

And of course the incredible Rock N Roll Circus performers.

JOIN THE PARTY (BUT BE QUICK)

t’s been a few months since

year’s main acts but, judging by ticket sales, it seems they’ve completely smashed it. Saturday’s tickets have completely sold out, they are only VIP tickets left for Friday and weekend tickets are running low - it seems the good can’t get enough.

And there’s much more to be announced at the end of February.

Hillsborough Park will once again be the home to Tramlines - the eighth time it

rolled out in a tongue-in-cheek, Spill the Beans teaser campaign. Hundreds of people received specially branded tins of beans in the post, each featuring the

reveal. Fans were also invited to donate one of the limited edition tins.

So who’s playing?

Friday sets the tone for a huge weekend, with Fatboy Slim bring his legendary big beat energy to the main

Here, Right Now, the Brighton-born icon promises a sensational start to the weekend.

Joining Fatboy Slim on that opening day will be Kaiser Chiefs, The Vaccines, The K’s, The Coral, Starsailor, Vanessa Carlton, Westside Cowboy and more.

Saturday sees Courteeners headline, closing out the night with the kind of set that’s earned them a cult-like following across the UK. Their return is one of the most requested by Tramlines fans, promising big singalongs and even bigger crowds. Blossoms play in the supporting slot, bringing with them a Mercury Music Prize nomination and an ever-growing list of festival anthems. They’re joined by Rick Astley, still riding high from a critically-acclaimed second act and viral collaborations with everyone from Foo Fighters to Blossoms themselves. Will there be a team-up on out.

Gabrielle, Freddie Halkon, Inspiral Carpets and the Everly Pregnant Brothers add extra depth to the day’s line-up whilst Day Fever will be bringing their wildly popular daytime disco experience

Founded in early 2024 by actress Vicky

Reverend and the Makers’ frontman, Jon McClure, the takeover is all about fun scene. For the daytime dance crowd. Sunday closes with Wolf Alice, one of the UK’s most exciting live bands. Known for their Mercury Music Prizewinning mix of grunge, alt-rock and haunting ballads, their set is set to be a standout moment in Tramlines history. They’re joined by Wet Leg, whose rapid rise and off-kilter pop brilliance has made them a major festival draw.

Makers, The Enemy, Brooke Combe and the ever-joyful Lottery Winners, round off a weekend with heart, swagger and plenty to sing about.

“I’d like to say a massive thank you to our amazing Tramlines community who have helped make this a record-breaking year,” said Timm Cleasby, Tramlines operations director. “I’m chuffed we’ve

Foodbank in our launch campaign, they do vital work in the community and we will continue to support them. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Hillsborough Park for another huge weekend of music, comedy and fun. See you in the summer!”

At a ceremony in December, the festival was named Inner-City Festival of the Year and awarded Headline Performance of the Year for Pulp’s iconic Friday night show at the 2025 UK Festival Awards.

Timm added: “Winning Inner-City Festival of the Year for the third time

and this feels like recognition for the whole city. I’m also chuffed that our operations team got a nod at the Access All Areas Awards. They’re the ones who make the whole thing run smoothly and I’m grateful for such a hard-working, professional team. It’s also lovely to see Shambala picking up the the Sarah Nulty Award. We’re all very grateful that her legacy lives on and her work remains recognised by the festival and the industry as a whole.”

In 2025, Tramlines announced £58,000 in funding for local and national projects. This included over £20,000 raised for the Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation, as well as a further £5,000 donated to Doctors Without Borders as part of a new and ongoing charity partnership. A was directed to the Tramlines Trust, which has awarded more than £120,000 in small grants since launching in 2022.

The Trust is a dedicated micro-charity

built to make the festival’s community impact more accessible, transparent and sustainable. It supports grassroots initiatives across culture, young people, education, skills, mental health and more. The Trust sits at the heart of Tramlines’ belief that festivals should give back to the people and places that make them possible.

Several organisations based in and around Hillsborough received dedicated funding, including Hillsborough Arena, Holme Lane Community Garden, and Soundpost’s Green Open Spaces Walking

from a direct community push in the runup to the festival’s artist announcement.

Across the city, funding has reached a wide range of organisations and ideas. Roundabout will continue its music education partnership with RiteTrax to deliver DJing and production workshops for young people in supported housing.

inclusive sports provision, while Wellbeing programme to support socially isolated women throughout the colder months.

Another standout moment of the year came from Under the Stars, a long-time partner of Tramlines, whose Stars Band returned to the festival line-up in 2025. Funding from the Tramlines Trust helped cover the essential costs of staff and safeguarding support, enabling talented performers with learning disabilities to take to the stage. The performance was a clear celebration of inclusion and musical achievement, earning heartfelt applause from audiences and showcasing the power of creativity across all abilities.

Funding has also supported grief support books for children, free community hiking and holistic wellbeing days, arts award access for young people with additional needs, food distribution to families through local schools, and a

backed by Football Unites, Racism Divides.

Pia Scattergood, Tramlines Festival Coordinator said: “Tramlines has always been about more than music, and it matters to us that the festival has an impact beyond the weekend. The Trust helps us stay connected to what’s happening around Hillsborough, while also supporting projects across the city. It means we’re learning from local groups and celebrating the arts and community

SAFE BET

Napoleons Casino & Restaurant has a new look and still delivers high quality and value for money, writes Richard Abbey.

apoleons has been a landmark 1990s and has always been a safe

Napoleons Casino & Restaurant

Tel: napoleons-casinos.co.uk

PLENTY ON HIS PLATE

Getting ready to open a new city centre restaurant, Jack Wakelin is a busy man.

You started in 2018 as a pop-up. What were those early days like and when did you make the decision to

Pretty wild, casting my mind back. From taking over Testone Factory in Kelham Island, to hosting at Swallows & Damsons the divide between kitchen and bar. It was

The Pearl at Park Hill, which we

Was Nether Edge always going to be at the time, Kelham, Abbeydale, and right.

and bread in the day and become a wine

very soon.

The weekend we become a little more and beyond.

And then came The Pearl & Bench

Tell us about the concept - I gather it is inspired by Ronnie’s Sicilian

Maria: A

by Italian trattorias

Americanos, digestive cocktails will be

£5 everyday!

I imagine there’ll be a great wine list

It’s in a great location; what are your love to see the centre beginning to thrive Jö scene year on year.

WORK BEGINS ON £24M CO-LIVING RESIDENTIAL SCHEME IN SHEFFIELD

Construction is underway on Hive, a £24 million co-living residential development in Kelham Island that is set to become its kind.

York-based developer Grantside has appointed EDGE, a leading property and construction consultancy, and contractor HBC Construction Limited (HBC), to deliver the landmark project, winner in the Outstanding Property Awards, which is targeting completion locally.

The innovative development will provide 100 co-living homes, generous studio apartments, alongside shared amenity spaces – including a gym, yoga studio, co-working hub and roof terrace – designed to meet the

It aims to provide private living space whilst also promoting social interaction between residents to boost wellbeing and combat loneliness. It aims to create an onsite community and connection hub.

The scheme will feature active

up businesses and independent traders, helping to create a lively street presence

independent character. The inclusion of

on placemaking, ensuring the development contributes to the wider neighbourhood as well as its residents.

Sustainability is also a big part of this

standards integrated from the outset. The building will incorporate locally sourced materials and feature rooftop solar panels to supply energy to the amenity spaces.

The building is also designed to be at the cutting edge of digital connectivity, achieving a WiredScore Platinum

Aiming to support modern urban lifestyles, the development will place

a strong emphasis on shared living and wellbeing. Communal kitchens, work spaces, alongside rooftop planting and seating areas are all intended to encourage interaction and a sense of community, while still providing residents with private living space.

Hive marks another milestone in Kelham acclaimed.

EDGE is providing specialist services

providing cost and project management services to support successful delivery, coordinating design teams, contractors and stakeholders, as well as providing strategic advice, managing contracts, and ensuring budgets and quality standards are met. EDGE will also be undertaking the

HBC is delivering the scheme,

residential-led developments and a strong regional presence. Working closely with EDGE, the wider design team and Grantside, HBC will oversee construction from site mobilisation through to completion, with a focus on build quality, safety and collaborative delivery.

SYNTH SIREN SOUNDING T

THE

ROUNDABOUT TEAM ON TOP OF THE WORLD AS KILIMANJARO

TREK RAISES

£90,000

efforts after raising £90,000 for South Yorkshire youth homelessness charity Roundabout.

A team of intrepid Roundabout supporters took on the Kilimanjaro.

By the time they reached the summit after eight days of 5,895 meters - and with each step along the way being sponsored, the total has now reached £90,000.

our vital services and help us support over 500 young people every day,” said Roundabout Fundraising Events Manager Mhairi Jamieson.

venturing out to see the wildlife of Africa on safari, while others

even greater boost - just visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/ roundaboutkilimanjaro

and place-maker SkyHouse Co has submitted a

SKY-HOUSE CO SUBMITS PLANS FOR ‘PORTER

Located alongside the Porter Brook, the project will deliver 31 bedroom apartment.

The development will transform a former surface car park on Sylvester Street in the Cultural Industries Quarter into a new destination, now referred to as the Porter Quarter.

Sky-House Co has worked in partnership with the Don ecological and environmental improvements to the Porter Brook.

The scheme aims to connect with Matilda Street Pocket Park, the city centre. with Devonshire Quarter and Copper Street, also known as Little Chicago, heading towards completion in late 2026.

sheffieldvibe.com

NEW OPENINGS

Blink and you might have missed

f you read the headlines, small businesses are struggling. And they clearly are and need our help, so instead of shopping online, support your independents by showing them some love.

Despite the not-so-good news, over the last few months, from Korean supermarkets and restaurants to coffee shops and clothing.

Here’s our pick of the latest new additions.

DAVE’S HOT CHICKEN

Backed by A-listers including Drake, Usher and Samuel L. Jackson, Dave’s Hot Chicken has built a cult following across the US and made its UK debut in November 2024. Now it’s bringing the heat up north, serving juicy, spice-loaded sliders inside a next-level, space-themed store complete with UFOs, cosmic décor and chicken so hot customers have to sign a waiver.

opening in the former ASK Italian at the top of Cambridge Street, bringing Dave’s signature galaxy-themed design to the city. Inspired by LA street artists Splatterhaus and Dehmq, it captures the raw energy of Dave’s U.S. locations

Keyana Mohammadi, Head of Marketing at Dave’s Hot Chicken UK,

we’re not coming quietly. We’ve had bringing Dave’s to the Steel City feels like a big moment for us. This pop-up is our way of causing a little midweek how hot Dave’s really gets. Expect big mess about - consider this your warning.”

THE FARGATE

One the most anticipated openings of 2025, this new Thornbridge Brewery

the year and has been an instant hit. The former bank has ten cask ales, half of them Thornbridge, as well as 16 draft beer lines and has your food cravings covered with Milanese style pizzas. At its heart is a striking

also features screened booths, a snug, banquette seating, and full-height glazing to the front, offering a light and inviting space.

I where a different atmosphere awaits. The design combines reclaimed timber walls, decorated ceilings, and original architectural details to create a brighter, more contemporary setting. Seating includes both leather banquettes and informal benches, ideal for larger groups.

ARUNDEL EMPORIUM

This new indoor market and community arts space above Network on Matilda Street is home to a café as well as lots of small, independent makers and sellers.

DROP BEAR

University’s new Strines Building on Howard Street, Drop Bear is an Aussiestyle coffee shop serving everything from stacked sushi rolls to breakfast bao buns – and of course your favourite caffeine hits and more.

LUCY & YAK

The banners have been up for a while and we expect this clothing brand to open anytime now. Lucy & Yak create

are fairly priced, ensuring everyone feels comfortable in their clothing, their choices, and in themselves. They deliver products representing style and substance for everybody.

PALM

Lift yourself out of the gloomy weather with a visit to this Caribbean garden bar, which has lush greenery, soft music, and warm evening light — a calm yet lively escape where every night feels like summer. Island-inspired cocktails range from rum classics to vibrant fruit mocktails whilst food is concentrated on Caribbean small plates with bold,

THE LOCK INN

The Lock Inn is your new destination bar at Victoria Quays. Newly-opened, you’ll

well a wines, cocktails and lots more. They have a regular calendar of events, including a weekly quiz, and don’t forget to take advantage of their

THE BOTANICAL ARMS

The latest micropub/bar to grace Ecclesall Road. It’s just up from Berkeley Precinct, small but perfectly formed. It specialises in wine, craft beer and real ale.

FORBICI

Set to open near the Winter Gardens, Forbici – the Italian translation of scissors – serves Neapolitan-style pizza with a unique twist: you’re given a pair of scissors to cut it up. Will they use ones and see.

THE IRISH

This Eccelsall Road venue will no doubt be familiar to many of you now and is a lively Irish-themed bar bringing a true taste of Ireland to the Steel City. Expect live music, cold pints, big matches and an atmosphere that’s always full of craic.

WATT BAR & KITCHEN

This Charles Street venue – and former power station (hence the name) – has been a labour of love for owner Andy Grice, who has opened the Dark Horse, Barrow Boy (now gone) and The Lock Inn in the time it’s taken to get this project off the ground. Now nearing completion, the bar is bringing a brandnew food collaboration with Simon Barnes, formerly of Slap & Pickle and now behind Hefty Hen. Think a Creoleinspired menu, running brunch, lunch and dinner.

THE CATACOMBS

The Catacombs is a new, exclusive extension within Church - Temple of Fun, the bar and restaurant in Kelham Island owned by Bring Me The Horizon frontman, Oli Sykes. You can expect a uniquely decorated area that has its own bar and photo booth for groups of 25-50 guests. For groups of 50-70 guests, they can extend the private hire area to include the entire upper level.

MEZWAANI RESTRO & BAR

Mezwaani is a new multicuisine restaurant on Ecclesall Road, bringing traditions of India to every plate. From tangy street-style favourites to comforting curries and fusion delights, the kitchen celebrates India’s diverse culinary heritage with a modern twist.

OMOMO KOREAN STREET FOOD + BUBBLE TEA SHEFFIELD

Replacing what was Pieminster on Division Street in the city centre, Korean street food to the heart of the

Forbici

city. The restaurant has one goal in mind – to serve delicious Korean street food my gosh”!

GRILLA KITCHEN

Former rapper-turned-chef Luke Hanson has combined his two favourite loves, hip-hop music and food, to create a New York-style deli serving some of the best sandwiches in the city – and lots more besides.

The Ecclesall Road eatery, which opened in summer, delivers big lunch

sandwiches – think meatball marinara, Philly cheesesteak and the Tex’en, which is made with BBQ brisket cooked for eight hours in-house. Luke has also experimented with Eastern spices in Katsu, Korean and Tandoori-style rolls. So far so delicious.

The subs, priced from £6.50, can be served with a selection of dusted fries (£3) – we really liked the smoked beef fat and cajun variety.

If brunch is more your thing, there’s

as supplement smoothies (£5.99) and protein shakes (£4). Luke also make his own juices in-house (£4), which are as colourful as they are tasty – Gorilla Green, made with celery, cucumber, pineapple, spinach and apple, was subtly sweet and refreshing. And, of course, there’s a selection of teas and coffees available.

Grilla Kitchen has that relaxed vibe that you might expect from a New York-style deli, enhanced by a carefully curated soundtrack of instrumental hiphop classics.

Graves Gallery reopens with exhibitions presenting new work by an acclaimed

The Graves Gallery is set to reopen on Thursday 26 February with homegrown creative talent and Queer welcomes visitors with When the Mosley, presenting new work by the alongside Revolution, Revelation, display bringing together historic and contemporary artworks and objects from history of art.

When the Day is Done presents 20 new works by Ryan Mosley weaving together of character and narrative are central

appearing to draw back a curtain and invite fact, familiar yet out of kilter. The mundane is often rendered fantastical through counterpoints of location, colour or motif, which remove the work from its foundation in reality.

connect with each other and the landscape around us. Whether revealing musicians in night clubs or individuals dwarfed by the enormity of the natural world, each of the paintings he creates sees the human lens.

development. It was during a visit there as

and his approach to visual language, and the possibilities they represented.

the Graves Gallery, the place where the potential of what was possible as a young artist was ignited. I owe a lot to the Graves.” Mosley has generously created a limited

in person from the Graves Gallery. All

work as a charity bringing the best in art

remarkable creative talent.

Visitors to the gallery will also discover

art and heritage have endured across the centuries and how communities continue to

When the Day is Done: New Paintings by Ryan Mosley and Revolution, Revelation, Reinforcement: Queer Legacies in Graves Gallery on Thursday 26 February – entry to the gallery is free, suggested donation £5.

ucked between the polished edges

A NEW URBAN VISION

WEST BAR: A TEST CASE IN MODERN SHEFFIELD

RETAINING TALENT, REINVENTING PLACE

AN URBAN MODEL, NOT A MUSEUM

include

ENTER A WORLD OF SUPERHEROES

tep through the door of World of Superheroes – tucked away in a warehouse on Holbrook Industrial Estate – and you’re immediately greeted

It’s just one of many pieces of striking

as well as helmets from Iron-Man and Star what I’m talking about) – I even spotted a

But the core of World of Superheroes

Owner Steve Eyre has been a lifelong collector of comic books but decided to

Steve has been buying up collections and then selling them on either as oneoff pieces or in bundles via World of Superheroes’ online shop or through their

artwork has grown massively in popularity (and price) and includes everything from

receipt of some Judge Dredd artwork which is unusual in that it is a complete story – usually these pieces only appear as

Steve has some original paintings by

around 30 UK-based comic book which was in Liverpool and attended by

appointment and Steve is happy to give

Tickets are now on sale, with more details on the full programme and free events to follow. Whether you are a regular welcome. View the full listings and book tickets at shaff.co.uk

DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY

way to inject some positivity into 2026.

emotions – to be happier. Your thoughts, actions and perceptions are what for our own happiness.

A great way to start the new year and reset is with a visit to a spa – and

R1SE

spa and studios is situated across body, your mind, and your response compression. Discover more at www.r1se.co.uk

An oasis of sensory rejuvenation in the centre everyone. session.

ºC and hosted and reconnection with the senses.

Visit www.warmthsauna.co.uk more.

GÜS

designed for deep, restorative heat. Visitors can choose between a more coffee from Dark Woods Coffee baked pastries. Open to everyone, it’s a before or after your session.

TURKISH BATHS 1877

on this city centre site since architecture is home to modern sauna and ice chamber, treatment rooms and scrub rooms. A visit here is sure rejuvenation of the body.

SCANDIBOX SAUNA

afterwards.

MERCURE SHEFFIELD KENWOOD HALL HOTEL & SPA

SANDMAN SIGNATURE SHEFFIELD QUAYS HOTEL

Victoria Quays waterfront, the historic charm. spa with soothing massages, room and sauna. gym, featuring premium cardio instructors.

ROCK MILL RETREAT

COVER STAR

Mike Morrell’s image of the Winter Gardens hints at a transition into spring.

Tell us about your cover. I set out to create an illustration that captured something truly iconic to encountered in any other city. The Winter Gardens immediately stood out as the ideal subject. I was particularly drawn to the intricate textures and forms created by the plant life and it was a genuine pleasure to replicate those details into my work. I also appreciated the opportunity to focus on an illustration devoted entirely to plants.

What’s your background?

drawing. This continued into my later

graduating in 2013. I quickly started freelancing after university and worked for independent creative companies at the Baltic Creative campus in Liverpool. Working consistently and juggling parttime jobs alongside my freelance work made me want to be outdoors and see the

me to start drawing again and working for clients.

choose to settle here?

main aim for moving here is to climb on the Gritstone Edges of the Peak District.

embraces cultures from all walks of life.

I always struggle with this question because the only thing I can think to say

would describe my style as hand-drawn and human-made.

I mainly work digitally on commissions

Drawing on location is a real source of inspiration for me. I have a passion

pens. It’s something completely different which I enjoy.

Do you prefer small scale or large-scale projects?

I work around A4/A3 and add details to create a complex image. I scan my illustrations (all hand-drawn) at a very large scale so they can be used in a variety of formats if needed. This means I have a

either quite small or very large outcomes. I would love the opportunity to work with anything that requires a different approach and learning.

moment?

I’ve been focusing on expanding my editorial client list and connecting with

has made things both busy and exciting. I’m always exploring personal projects that anything that puts my work in a fresh

my pieces into a jigsaw puzzle which feels a bit different.

One of my favourite commissions so far has been creating an illustration for a tote

Seeing my artwork printed on a physical product was such a rewarding moment. It’s it made the whole project feel extra special.

What would be your dream project? I’m really keen to take on more reportage-

work from what I see. I’m especially drawn

would be a dream client.

People often tell me my style would suit to create informative titles that explain how

something more organic like the plants in the Winter Gardens.

I’m also eager to develop a series of

focusing on iconic buildings around London. It feels like a natural direction for my work and something I’d be excited to explore further.

and by David Gentleman’s beautiful observational drawings. I’m also drawn to travel posters from around 1923–1947. I love the way they captured iconic locations

tried to bring that same sense of place into with me.

really stand out as they give the place so much character. Its steel heritage is

enjoy spotting the small details around the and its global reputation for steelmaking.

What I love most is the strong sense of

from anywhere else I’ve lived. I regularly go to illustrator meetups hosted by the always such a boost for my creativity and motivation. 2026?

where I can draw on location and escape all this rain. Soaking up the sun with my sketchbook feels like exactly what I need

JOIN OUR SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORK

This special edition of VIBE has been made possible through the continued support we receive on our social media and website daily. With over 43,000 followers across our social media platforms and a reach of over 560,000 users, it was time to bring VIBE back to life through print.

On our social media you can expect exclusive interviews, reviews, photographs of our beloved city, information on the hottest events and much more. Why not head over to our social media and show us some love by giving us a follow on:

Did you know that we have a variety of social media and digital packages ideal for promoting your business? Starting from just £100 (+ VAT) you could be included in features, posts and inclusions into our weekly email newsletter (4,500 contacts). Expand your audience with us today - contact our Social Media and Digital Manager Richard Abbey at richard.abbey@rmcmedia.co.uk to find out more on how to reach part of our 560,000 monthly impressions.

SHOUTING ABOUT SHEFFIELD

VIBE Sheffield is a website dedicated to Sheffield’s dynamic social scene. With popular features and articles split up into the sections below:

FOOD & DRINK WATCH, LISTEN, DO MOVERS & MAKERS

At VIBE, our main focus is to shout about Sheffield and we make sure to surround that with as much positivity as possible. After all, if you’re from Sheffield, you’re proud to live in such a great city!

VIBE DIRECTORY

Have you checked out our brand new Sheffield based directory that is now live on our website with the likes of Tec-Nick Autos, Chinatown, Hallamshire Paving, Matlock Farm Park and many more? We're still in the building process so if you are interested in your business being displayed proudly on there, email richard.abbey@rmcmedia.co.uk to find out more.

Scan the QR code below with your smartphone to access the directory