MOBO Fringe Launch: The Black Sound Gala

The Black Sound Gala is a celebration of Black music, culture and creative excellence officially opening the MOBO Fringe Week in Manchester.

Set within the iconic Whitworth Art Gallery, this landmark evening brings together an extraordinary fusion of sound and performance. The gala will feature live performances from opera and jazz vocalists, a gospel choir, energetic drummers and Afrobeats artists, alongside powerful spoken word and dynamic dancers. The evening honours Black music not as a monolith as an evolving force shaping culture, identity and creative expression across generations.

What to Expect

• A curated, immersive cultural atmosphere
• Live music including gospel, jazz and Afrobeats performances
• Dynamic dance performances to African & Caribbean music
• Powerful spoken word performances

The Black Sound Gala kicks off an exciting MOBO Fringe Week for Manchester centring the enduring power of Black music.

About the Producers

is a social enterprise dedicated to showcasing and supporting Black creatives. Our mission is to break down barriers, amplify underrepresented voices, and create opportunities for Black talent to thrive. From musicians to poets to fashion designers, BCT delivers events, workshops, and collaborations that help creatives develop sustainable careers. BCT has hosted a variety of impactful events, including showcases, open mic nights, and activations across Manchester at venues including Factory International and Manchester Museum.

About MOBO

is a leading cultural organisation dedicated to recognising and celebrating excellence in music and culture of Black origin. For nearly 30 years, the MOBO Awards have been a defining moment in the British music industry. In its 30th anniversary year, the awards will be hosted in Manchester, accompanied by a week of events across the city known as MOBO Fringe. The Black Sound Gala launches this programme.

About the Whitworth

is proudly part of The University of Manchester, operating as a convening space between the University and the people of the city. Founded in 1889 for “the perpetual gratification of the people of Manchester” it continues this mission today in new contexts. The gallery, its park and gardens are home to the collection of over 60,000 works of art, textiles, sculptures and wallpapers and provides a platform for artists from around the world. The Whitworth is driven by a vision to actively seek and manifest connections between art, creativity, and their role in developing a more resilient and caring society through its exhibitions and award-winning civic engagement programme. Gallery opening times: Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm, Thursday late opening until 9pm.

Access info

The Whitworth is an accessible venue with facilities to support you during your visit and alongside this their visitor team will be on hand to assist you in the gallery. Find out more about planning your visit to the Whitworth and accessibility information for you. If you’d like to speak to a team member about any access or additional needs, please get in touch with the gallery and they will be happy to assist you. Contact: [email protected] or telephone: 0161 275 7450.

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