FOCUS Wales 2026 announces first wave of artists

The first names have been unveiled for next year’s edition of FOCUS Wales. It’s an eclectic line-up that continues the festival’s mission of cultural diversity and emerging talent. Following a 15th anniversary year that drew 25,000 music fans and over 400 international delegates, the Wrexham-based festival will return on May 7–9, 2026. 

Scottish post-punk veterans Idlewild top the bill. They’ll be joined by South London’s shame, whose 2025 record Cutthroat was a critical success. Completing the three headlining acts are Domino’s FatDog, known for their explosive collision of punk, dance and energy. 

The line-up announcement also highlights FOCUS Wales’ commitment to spotlighting talent from Wales and around the UK. Featured Welsh artists include trailblazing triple harpist Cerys Hafana, folk/pop experimenter Gwenno, mythology-inspired alternative folkster Mari Mathias and Swansea-born fiddler Aneirin Jones. Other names include Angharad Jenkins and Patrick Rimes (esteemed members of Calan), Cardiff-born finger-picking specialist Gwenifer Raymond, bilingual singer-songwriter Mared, genre-blending Irish folk singer Joshua Burnside and West Yorkshire-based Tristwch y Fenywod, who will bring a Welsh-language fusion of folk, gothic rock and darkwave.  

With artists representing countries from Australia to South Korea, Serbia to the US, FOCUS Wales once again serves as a vital meeting point for global music communities. Further artist announcements and the conference programme are expected in the coming months.  

+ FOCUS Wales will take place in Wrexham, May 7–9, 2026. More information and tickets via focuswales.com