80s Calling! Holly Johnson with very special guests Bananarama

80s Calling! is one of the most exciting events to join Darlington’s summer music calendar, featuring Holly Johnson with very special guests Bananarama, Level 42, Toyah & Robert, The Christians and T’Pau all on ONE STAGE at the Darlington Arena on Saturday 31st August! Fans can expect a TRULY INCREDIBLE festival line-up of the cream of 80s icons; this is retro revival at its finest, promising a night of evocative fun and some of the best tunes from the decade!

Best known as the lead vocalist of ‘Frankie Goes to Hollywood’ Holly Johnson will be headlining at The Darlington Arena ‘80s Calling!’ for one final party before the summer ends. In 1989, Johnson's debut solo album, ‘Blast’, reached number one in the UK albums chart with Two of his singles from the album – ‘Love Train’ and ‘Americanos’ – reaching the top 5 of the UK Singles Chart.

With a number of the 80s greatest hits such as ‘Relax’, ‘The Power Of Love’ and ‘Two Tribes’ Johnson celebrated 40 years of Frankie Goes To Hollywood last year, which even saw a reunion for a one off performance at the opening night of Eurovision in his home city, Liverpool.

Very special guests Bananarama, the most successful female group of all time, made up of Sara Dallin and Keren Woodward will be joining Holly Johnson this summer for what is going to be a party not to be missed. 2024 continues to see the duo perform at their very best celebrating over 40 years at the top with the release of a new 40-track album, 'Glorious - The Ultimate Collection', on the 8th of March.

With 30 top 40 UK hits, such as ‘Venus’, ‘Cruel Summer’ and ‘Love in the First Degree’ the most internationally charted hits by an all-female group, has seen them produce 12 albums, selling over 30 million records.

Jazz-funk icons Level 42 known for having such hits as ‘Lessons in Love’ and ‘Something about you’ will also be performing at 80s Calling! Having formed in 1979, with a break between 1994 to 2001, Level 42 have released 11 albums with the latest coming in 2006. 2023 saw lead singer, Mark King win the Icon award at the Silver Clef Awards, joining a list of Stereophonics, Rod Stewart and Sir Cliff Richard.

Toyah and Robert will be adding to the excitement, as the enigmatic Toyah will take the stage, bringing her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence to Darlington. Toyah's eclectic style and captivating performances have made her an enduring figure in the music industry, and her and Robert’s performance promises to be an experience filled with energy and passion which they bring every ‘Sunday Lunch’ on their social media channels. Robert Fripp is best known for being the founder and longest-lasting member of the progressive rock band King Crimson. He has also worked extensively as a session musician and collaborator, notably with David Bowie, Blondie and Peter Gabriel to name a few.

The Christians areone of the defining bands of the 1980s known for creating songs with socially conscious lyrics married with soulful bluesy melodies will be delving into their superlative back catalogue.

Completing the line-up is the talented Carol Decker of T'Pau, renowned for her distinctive voice and unforgettable songs such as ‘China in Your Hand’ and ‘Heart and Soul). With her emotive performances and undeniable stage presence, Decker will deliver a show-stopping performance, transporting the audience back to the golden era of '80s music.

Liz Doogan-Hobbs MBE, CEO of LHG Events said “We're thrilled to announce yet another music offering to Darlington, and we are certain 80s Calling!is going to prove a huge hit with fans who not only remember the artists the first time around but also newer fans who embrace the retro revival, or just want to enjoy top tunes in a spectacular summer setting. We hope to see as many of you there as possible and encourage you to dress your own take on 80s style and really embrace the spirit of the evening. Bring on the neon, bring on the shades, and let’s have a party!”

Tickets for 80s Festival on Saturday 31st August 2024, featuring Holly Johnson, very special guests Bananarama, Level 42, Toyah, The Christians and T’Pau go on General Sale at 9.00am on Friday 29th March 2024.