Garbage frontwoman Shirley Manson has expressed her profound honour at being appointed curator for the Teenage Cancer Trust's annual series of fundraising concerts, describing it as an "immense privilege".
Manson is the second guest curator of the week-long series, following Robert Smith of The Cure, who helmed this year's successful run in March, which notably featured Garbage among its performers. The prestigious event, initiated by Teenage Cancer Trust honorary patron Sir Roger Daltrey in 2000, saw him curate the artists until 2025. To date, the concerts have collectively generated over £36 million for the charity.
Manson's curated series is scheduled to take place from March 15 to 21 next year, with her chosen line-up still awaiting announcement. The 59-year-old Scottish singer rose to prominence in the 1990s with Garbage, achieving success through hits like “Stupid Girl” and “Only Happy When It Rains”. The band has continued to release new material in recent years.
The announcement on Tuesday was accompanied by the release of a video showcasing Garbage's rendition of The Cure's “Lovesong” from their March performance. This year's stellar line-up, which also featured headliners such as Wolf Alice, Elbow, Manic Street Preachers, My Bloody Valentine, and Mogwai, successfully raised £1.4 million for the charity, dedicated to supporting young people with cancer throughout the UK.
Manson stated: "To follow in the footsteps of the great Sir Roger Daltrey and most beloved Robert Smith by being invited to curate next year’s run of shows is one of the greatest honours that has ever been bestowed upon me. I consider it an immense privilege to continue helping raise funds and awareness for our all-too-often-forgotten teenagers in the UK who are living with cancer and the struggle that this entails. I hope to curate a fine week of entertainment, calling upon some of my favourite artists to join the cause. I am so looking forward to seeing it all come together at the Royal Albert Hall next year and I hope to see you there."
Robert Smith, reflecting on his tenure, commented: "Having played a few Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall shows with The Cure, it was a real honour to curate the series in 2026, bringing together so many of my favourite artists to perform for such a great cause. Garbage were one of the highlights of a stellar week, and I am very sure Shirley, with her great energy, commitment and values, will do a fantastic job in 2027."
Jane Ashton, head of music and entertainment at Teenage Cancer Trust, expressed her enthusiasm: "We are delighted to welcome Shirley as our curator for 2027. Cancer kills more teenagers and young adults in the UK than any other disease, yet cancer care wasn’t made for young people. Shirley’s passion for our cause was electrifying to see during this year’s shows and we can’t wait to see who she invites to play next year."
