John Anson

Musician Steve Ray Ladson, who reached the America’s Got Talent final in 2010 after receiving Sofia Vergara’s golden buzzer, is scheduled to perform at Sunbird in Darwen. His music, which he calls “Blackgrass Brothercana,” combines country, blues, bluegrass, soul and rock. Ladson credits his church upbringing, extensive touring with the Blind Boys of Alabama and his television appearance with shaping his energetic, genre-crossing style. He will perform with a bassist and drummer and is expected to preview material from his long-awaited debut album.

The Lowry’s free Wild Things exhibition in Salford brings together nearly 100 illustrations from more than 20 children’s-book illustrators, including works from Elmer, Dear Zoo and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. Its A–Z layout, large-scale and digital prints, original sketches, creative activities, dressing-up areas, storytelling, trails and reading spaces are designed to engage young children and families. The exhibition is highly popular, accommodating up to 1,200 visitors a day, and runs until November 1, with advance booking encouraged and school visits requiring reservations.

Killing Joke co-founder and drummer Paul Ferguson says he hopes the band can perform again in tribute to late guitarist Geordie Walker and release unreleased recordings, though he remains estranged from vocalist Jaz Coleman. Ferguson describes the emotional toll of Killing Joke's volatile history and says he is now focused on Light of Eternity, his collaboration with Fred Schreck and Pauly Williams. The new band is scheduled to perform at Sunbird Records in Darwen and at Blackpool's Rebellion Festival.

A free concert inspired by David Bowie will take place at Blackpool Opera House as part of the town’s UK City of Culture 2029 campaign, featuring performances by the Hallé Orchestra, Jack Savoretti, members of James and The Stone Roses, and several local artists. The event, organised by Blackpool Council with Showtown and Elite Competitions, supports the city’s cultural bid and coincides with the forthcoming David Bowie: On Tour exhibition. With 2,500 free tickets available via public ballot, the programme includes musical collaborations, spoken-word performances, and a commissioned work by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, aiming to showcase Blackpool’s cultural ambitions.