LNER 2026 Mini Mercury Choir Gears Up For This Year's Mercury Prize in Newcastle
16/10/2026
A talented young choir of more than seventy school children from across the North East are preparing for a unique performance as the prestigious Mercury Prize returns to Newcastle.
Supported by LNER, the young musicians have been busy with final rehearsals ahead of a pop-up performance at Newcastle Central railway station on Thursday 22 October, the day that the Mercury Prize ceremony takes place at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena. The LNER 2026 Mini Mercury Choir have been spending time at the legendary St. James’ Park, home of Newcastle United Football Club, to practice two special songs, including one from a North East artist on this year’s Mercury Prize shortlist.
LNER is returning as the Official Travel Partner for the 2026 Mercury Prize which recognises artistic achievement across multiple genres. Last year’s ceremony was the first time the event was held outside London and it is once again returning to Newcastle. Invited guests and VIPs, as well as the judges and many of the shortlisted artists who are set to perform on the night, are expected to travel to the venue by train with LNER.
Olivia Jeffery, Brand Partnership Lead at LNER, said:
LNER is proud to once again be the Official Travel Partner for the 2026 Mercury Prize. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to Newcastle for this prestigious event and we are delighted to be providing a platform for young local talent with the 2026 edition of the LNER Mini Mercury Choir. Who knows, some of its members may turn out to be Mercury Prize shortlisted artists of the future!
