Gary Numan is set to headline a new festival series, ‘Palace Bowl Presents,’ at London’s iconic Crystal Palace Bowl on . The announcement, made on , adds Numan to a growing lineup for the inaugural event, which runs from to .
The synth-pop pioneer will perform a career-spanning set, including hits like “Cars” and “M.E.” He’ll be joined by Marc Almond, performing material from Soft Cell and his solo work, and the electronic group Ladytron. The event promises a diverse evening for fans of new wave and electronic music.
Tickets go on sale this , with preferred access available to Mastercard cardholders beginning earlier that day. General on-sale begins at 10 AM. Discounted tickets will be available to residents of the SE19, SE20, and SE26 postcodes.
This performance follows Numan’s recent 45th-anniversary tour for his album ‘Telekon,’ which concluded at the end of last year. The tour was marked by a deeply personal moment when Numan broke down in tears onstage, revealing the sudden death of his brother, John Webb. He shared the news with fans, explaining he continued the tour at his father’s urging and with the blessing of his brother’s wife.
The Crystal Palace Bowl has a rich history as an outdoor venue, and ‘Palace Bowl Presents’ aims to revitalize its role as a key location for live music in London. The series will feature a total of 12 events, showcasing a range of artists and genres.
Numan’s inclusion in the lineup follows the previously announced co-headline performance by Bastille and The Wombats on . The series will also host the inaugural ‘Gospel Garden Festival’ on , headlined by Kirk Franklin and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, with support from Fred Hammond, Mercy Chinwo, and Jerub. This event marks London’s largest outdoor gospel festival.
The announcement underscores Numan’s continued relevance in the music scene. Following a performance at Glastonbury last year – his first ever – he remains a compelling live act, drawing on a discography that has influenced generations of electronic musicians. His ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level, as evidenced by his recent onstage vulnerability, further solidifies his position as a respected and enduring artist.
‘Palace Bowl Presents’ represents a significant addition to London’s summer festival calendar, offering a diverse range of musical experiences in a historic setting. The series aims to attract both established fans and new audiences, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. The event’s organizers are hoping to establish it as an annual fixture, building on the success of this inaugural year.
For Gary Numan, the Crystal Palace Bowl performance is not only a chance to showcase his extensive catalog but also to connect with fans in a particularly meaningful way, following a period of personal loss. His decision to continue touring, honoring his brother’s memory, speaks to his dedication to his craft and his commitment to his audience.
