The Courtyard Announces First Wave of Headline Acts for The Amp

Major artists including Jools Holland, Alfie Boe, James Morrison, Elkie Brooks, Russell Howard and more confirmed for new 1,400-seat Big Top venue.

The Courtyard Hereford is proud to announce the first wave of headline artists set to perform at The Amp, its brand-new 1,400-seat Big Top venue launching in Summer 2026.

This exciting new programme marks a major step forward in The Courtyard’s ambition to bring larger-scale, nationally renowned artists to Herefordshire, transforming the cultural landscape of the region.
Opening its debut season, The Amp will welcome an exceptional line-up of music and comedy talent. Jools Holland & His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra will bring their legendary energy and virtuoso musicianship to the Big Top, while Alfie Boe showcases his powerhouse vocals and charismatic stage presence. Brit Award–winner James Morrison joins the programme with his unmistakable soul-pop sound, and iconic vocalist Elkie Brooks adds her timeless voice to the season. Comedy heavyweights Russell Howard and Al Murray will each take to the stage with their signature humour and razor-sharp wit. New wave favourites ABC bring a hit-filled set of 80s classics, and country duo The Shires offer their distinctively British take on Nashville-inspired songwriting. Tribute legends The Bootleg Beatles will deliver an authentic journey through the Fab Four’s greatest hits, while K-Pop All Stars brings high-energy choreography and global chart-toppers to complete a truly diverse and exciting programme.
Spanning world-class music, comedy, and genre-defining performances, this first announcement showcases the scale and ambition behind The Amp’s summer programme.

Located on-site at The Courtyard in a Big Top structure, The Amp will allow the region to attract acts that previously would have bypassed Herefordshire due to venue size and technical capacity. With 1,400 seats and a bespoke festival-style set-up, the venue will offer audiences a dynamic new way to experience live performance.
Ian Archer, Chief Executive of The Courtyard Hereford, said:
“The Amp represents a transformational moment for culture in Herefordshire. We are incredibly proud to unveil this first wave of performers - artists who typically play much larger venues across the UK. The response from the industry has already been overwhelmingly positive, and this is only the beginning.”

David Durant, Associate Director, added:

“The Amp will expand what’s possible for audiences in our region. This line-up reflects our ambition to bring world-class entertainment to Hereford, and we’re thrilled to finally share what’s been in the works behind the scenes.”
The first wave of announced acts will be open for priority & neighbour booking from Wednesday 26 November and on general sale from Friday 28 November.

Full event details and ticket information will be available at:
www.courtyard.org.uk/theamp