Photo credit: Madvortex
North Shields grassroots venue Are You Affiliated (AYA) has unveiled a new initiative designed to help the next generation of independent music promoters, offering a year-long package of mentorship, free venue access and industry support.
The Are You Affiliated Promoters Project, launched in partnership with King Street Social Club and backed by Arts Council England, aims to give one aspiring promoter the tools and experience needed to build a sustainable events programme in the North East.
The successful applicant will receive free venue hire at King Street Social Club, access to professional equipment and production resources, as well as guidance from experienced figures across the music industry. Organisers say the programme is intended to remove many of the financial and logistical barriers that often prevent new promoters from getting started.
AYA was founded by DJ and producer Man Power (Geoff Kirkwood), initially operating as a series of pop-up events before securing investment to establish a permanent venue inside Phoenix House in 2024. Since opening, the space has hosted internationally recognised artists while maintaining a strong focus on grassroots culture and community-led programming.
Applications are open until August 14, with prospective promoters asked to submit a five-minute video outlining their ambitions, involvement in the local music community, the artists they would book and what they believe they could contribute to North Shields’ cultural landscape.
