Norwich Jazz Festival
The Norwich Jazz Festival returns from 15–24 May, taking over venues across the city with an inspiring programme of live performances, talks and film celebrating the very best of contemporary UK jazz.
Following a successful relaunch in 2025, the festival is back and proud be part of the Norfolk & Norwich Festival this year. Early highlights announced last November included GoGo Penguin and the Balimaya Project, and the newly revealed full programme promises an exciting and diverse line-up.
The festival opens on Friday 15 May with the Balimaya Project at The Spiegeltent, followed by the Norwich Jazz Festival 2026 Launch Party, featuring Mondo DJs, Amy Nomvula and Easily Dunn, spinning a vibrant mix of jazz and worldbeat.
On 16 May, acclaimed tuba player and Sons of Kemet member Theon Cross brings his powerful trio to Norwich Arts Centre.
After being one of the standout performances of 2025, the National Youth Jazz Orchestra returns on 19 May to Epic Studios with a brand-new show celebrating the legacy of Abdullah Ibrahim and the sounds of South African township jazz.
The Neil Cowley Trio reunite to present music from their outstanding brand-new album, ‘Entity’ at Norwich Arts Centre on 21 May, showcasing their signature blend of original compositions and dynamic interplay.
Nubiyan Twist, the London-based jazz and Afrobeat collective known for their infectious energy and uplifting live shows, headline Epic Studios on 22 May, supported by Tara Lily and Tadi The Great.
On 23 May, Manchester trio GoGo Penguin bring their new album, ‘Necessary Fictions’, a fusion of jazz, classical and electronic music to Epic Studios, joined by special guest Daudi Matsiko.
The festival closes on 24 May with Gary Crosby’s Mingus Moves, a special performance celebrating the music of Charles Mingus, featuring Crosby’s sextet performing classic Mingus repertoire.
Beyond the main stages, the festival also features intimate pop-up events across the city, including broadcaster and DJ Amy Nomvula in conversation musician André Marmot author of ‘Unapologetic Expression: The Inside Story of the UK Jazz Explosion’ at The Book Hive, jazz trio ABNA performing in Cinema City’s courtyard followed by a screening of Whiplash, and a performance by London-based harpist Marysia Osu in the beautiful Anteros courtyard.
Tickets go on general sale Friday 20 February 10am.
For full listings and further details, visit norwichartscentre.co.uk.
