Exeter Respect 2026: Stephen Lawrence Stage Programme Announced
The Stephen Lawrence Stage returns to Exeter Respect Festival 2026 with a weekend of emerging talent, original music and creative performance across 6–7 June.
Named in memory of Stephen Lawrence, the stage celebrates creativity, diversity and the importance of giving young and independent artists a platform to be heard. Across the weekend, audiences can enjoy an eclectic mix of folk, indie, blues, alternative rock, spoken word, acoustic music, dance and vocal performance from artists across Devon and the South West.
Saturday’s programme opens with Wren Devon Youth Folk Ensemble, bringing energetic folk music inspired by the traditions of the Westcountry and performed by talented young musicians from across the region.
The afternoon continues with Exeter alternative rock band Neon Lobsters, whose energetic sound draws on influences ranging from math rock and jazz fusion to punk and pop. Combustion Band follows with indie rock energy and original songwriting, while Dominic Garnett brings spoken word, performance and creative expression to the stage.
Audiences can also enjoy the uplifting performance of Blowing My Own Trumpet, alongside multi-instrumentalist Max Kroger from Shine Music Devon, whose atmospheric performances combine piano, saxophone, drums and beatboxing.
As the day unfolds, Etchechuria bring delicate harmonies and contemporary folk songwriting exploring themes of love, loss and joy. Plymouth singer-songwriter Cat Rose follows with intimate storytelling and beautifully crafted folk-inspired songs, before The Gaia Project closes the evening with experimental sounds blending jazz, psychedelic rock and atmospheric soundscapes inspired by the natural world.
Sunday continues the weekend with a diverse programme celebrating grassroots music and performance. Orbit opens the day, followed by Hoztility, before Exeter blues band Tricky Situation bring soulful vocals and classic blues-rock energy to the stage. Rusty Soutar follows with an acoustic blend of blues, folk and indie, creating an uplifting and melodic sound.
Young emerging artist Leona Whitfield brings soulful pop songwriting to the programme, having already gained recognition through BBC Introducing and a growing catalogue of original music. The atmosphere then shifts with Zumba With Sara, inviting festivalgoers of all ages to join in an energetic celebration of dance, rhythm and movement.
Throughout the afternoon, audiences can experience the raw energy of teen alternative rock band Drawer Full O’Lemons, alongside the thoughtful acoustic songwriting of Bully, whose music explores human rights and personal storytelling through expressive live performance.
The weekend also celebrates Exeter’s international communities with La Bandita, whose vibrant Latin American rhythms fill the stage with cumbia, samba, reggaeton and Latin pop. Pianist and composer Waz Music then brings reflective and atmospheric melodies inspired by wellbeing and emotional connection.
The Stephen Lawrence Stage programme concludes with Acapella Calling, a South Devon vocal group whose uplifting harmonies blend pop, folk and gospel influences, ending the weekend with warmth, joy and a sense of togetherness.
Throughout the weekend, the Stephen Lawrence Stage offers a welcoming platform for emerging artists, independent musicians and creative voices from across the South West. From powerful songwriting and experimental sounds to community performance and cultural celebration, the stage reflects the spirit of Exeter Respect Festival: bringing people together through creativity, diversity and shared experience.
