Member Article

Vela give band chance to perform with PrimalScream

The Vela Group has officially opened its ‘Edge’ competition in a bid to showcase the region’s musical talent at this year’s Stockton Weekender festival.

Hot on the heels of this year’s line-up announcement, the housing group which incorporates Tristar Homes and Housing Hartlepool and is one of the headline sponsors of the event, is offering local unsigned bands and musicians a chance to win the opening slot on the Main Stage for Saturday’s line up.

The opportunity will see the winning act on the bill alongside headliners Primal Scream, Dexys and The Proclaimers, playing their own material to the spectators attending the annual summer spectacular by Stockton’s riverside.

The competition, open to 15 to 25-year-olds, is promoted through Vela’s social media sites and will run until 8 April.

Shortlisted acts will take part in a live head-to-head battle with other successful acts at the Georgian Theatre, Stockton, in May in front of a packed audience and panel of judges.

Last year’s competition saw winners The Panoramic, a four-piece indie pop-act from Stockton, open the festival. Following their appearance, the band has had a string of successful gigs which has led to further exciting opportunities.

Cath Purdy, Vela Group Chief Executive said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain exposure and demonstrate their talent live on stage at one of the most popular music festivals in the North East.

“As a housing group we are not only committed to providing quality affordable homes but also investing in our communities by providing opportunities to encourage and support people to achieve their ambitions.”

Commenting on their experience, Stefan Atkinson from The Panoramic said: “Stockton Weekender was a great opportunity and we’d urge any band or musician to enter the competition. Since last year we’ve had an outstanding response, not only through gig offers and publicity but also within ourselves, our confidence is now always at a high.”

Tees Music Alliance (TMA) Director Paul Burns added: “Each year the festival attracts more and more people and consistently big name acts. The Edge competition which will be supported by TMA is a huge opportunity not to be missed. We are dedicated to helping local talent showcase their musical abilities.”

For more information and to enter the competition please visit www.facebook.com/velahomes or follow Vela @TheVelaGroup.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Recognition PR Business Team .