April was an unforgettable month at Pilgrim, filled with unique firsts—from our catered sit-down show featuring Si King and Propa Pies, to a wedding for SouLutions super-couple Louise and Steve, and a special commemoration of Prince. Looking ahead, May is shaping up to be just as diverse, celebrating everything from new music to post-punk legends and international grooves. Our commitment to original live music in Newcastle continues every Monday with the Songwriter’s Social, curated by Jonny Boyle. This free-entry showcase is the perfect spot to catch four or five handpicked artists performing new material and shaping the future of the independent North East scene.

This month brings a stellar lineup of ticketed performances covering a massive range of genres. For fans of 80s nostalgia, Nuromantica brings their full production show of Synth and New Romantics on Saturday, May 9th. Later in the month, immerse yourself in global rhythms with the Castillo Nuevo Orquesta on May 28th, delivering an irresistible mix of Afro-Cuban, Latin Jazz, Salsa, and Mambo. We’re also featuring exceptional local talent, including the six-piece powerhouse The Neighbourhood Watch, who will blend sophisticated jazz arrangements with deep funk and neo-soul grooves on May 27th. Rounding out the main stage events, post-punk legend and best-selling author John Robb will present his electrifying spoken word show, “Punk Rock Ruined My Life,” in conversation with North East punk legend Pauline Murray on May 10th.

Pilgrim keeps the party going every weekend with special events and free-entry DJ nights. We kick off the month with a Northern Soul special on Sunday, May 3rd, taking it back to the scene’s humble beginnings with the best dancefloor and drinks in the city. Get dressed up for the exclusive A Night In Noir club night on May 2nd, dedicated to RnB, HipHop, Afrobeats and Amapiano with a strict all-black dress code. For a more unexpected sound, check out Big Red and the Grinners on May 24th, who creatively merge songs you know with bluegrass instruments like the banjo and double bass. With regular free-entry DJ sets every Saturday and the Northern Roots artist showcase on May 22nd, Pilgrim is the place to be—see you on the best dancefloor in Newcastle!.