Local Expert

Marcus Neal

Director and Head of Programming, Brighten The Corners, Brighten the Corners 

Marcus Neal is a key figure in Ipswich’s independent music scene. As Director and Head of Programming at Brighten The Corners, he curates the festival’s diverse line-ups and oversees year-round programming across venues like The Smokehouse, The Baths, and St Stephen’s.​ Before joining Brighten The Corners, Marcus spent five years at the New Wolsey Theatre, gaining experience in arts management and administration. He also serves as a director at Out Loud Music CIC, contributing to budget control, project spending, and funding opportunities.​ Out Loud Music In addition to his programming roles, Marcus runs HEX Record Shop, a vinyl store operating from St Stephen’s Church on Fridays and Saturdays.​

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Brighten the Corners logomark
News

Brighten The Corners Festival to take break after its most successful year yet

Despite attracting thousands of attendees and over 70 performances in 2025, Brighten The Corners Festival organisers say a pause in 2026 will allow them to focus on new large-scale projects and ensure the festival returns with greater ambition in 2027.
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