Garbage singer Shirley Manson has said it is an “immense privilege” to be named as the curator of the annual series of gigs organised to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Manson is the second guest curator of the week-long series, after Robert Smith of The Cure took the helm for this year’s shows in March, which had Garbage in the line-up.
The event was launched by Teenage Cancer Trust honorary patron Sir Roger Daltrey in 2000, who himself curated the artists until 2025. The concerts have raised more than £36 million to date.
Next year’s series will run from March 15 to 21, and Manson’s line-up is yet to be announced.
Scottish singer Manson, 59, found success with Garbage in the 1990s with singles including Stupid Girl and Only Happy When It Rains, and the band has released new albums in more recent years.
To mark the announcement on Tuesday, a video was released of Garbage’s performance of The Cure’s Lovesong when they played in March.
Other headliners included Wolf Alice, Elbow, Manic Street Preachers, My Bloody Valentine and Mogwai, raising £1.4 million for the charity, which supports young people with cancer across the UK.
Manson said: “To follow in the footsteps of the great Sir Roger Daltrey and most beloved Robert Smith by being invited to curate next year’s run of shows is one of the greatest honours that has ever been bestowed upon me.
“I consider it an immense privilege to continue helping raise funds and awareness for our all-too-often-forgotten teenagers in the UK who are living with cancer and the struggle that this entails.
“I hope to curate a fine week of entertainment, calling upon some of my favourite artists to join the cause. I am so looking forward to seeing it all come together at the Royal Albert Hall next year and I hope to see you there.”
Smith said: “Having played a few Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall shows with The Cure, it was a real honour to curate the series in 2026, bringing together so many of my favourite artists to perform for such a great cause.
“Garbage were one of the highlights of a stellar week, and I am very sure Shirley, with her great energy, commitment and values, will do a fantastic job in 2027.”
Jane Ashton, head of music and entertainment at Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “We are delighted to welcome Shirley as our curator for 2027.
“Cancer kills more teenagers and young adults in the UK than any other disease, yet cancer care wasn’t made for young people.
“Shirley’s passion for our cause was electrifying to see during this year’s shows and we can’t wait to see who she invites to play next year.”
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