Award win caps Rock N Roll Circus’ success

An independent live music festival is building momentum in two cities after industry recognition highlighted its distinctive approach to programming and audience experience.

Rock N Roll Circus has been named Best Programming at this year’s Access All Areas Awards, underlining its growing reputation as one of the UK’s most innovative independent festivals. 

The accolade recognises its combination of high-profile music line-ups with immersive circus performance, creating a format that appeals to both dedicated music fans and families.

Since launching in Sheffield in 2022 and expanding to Norwich, the festival has featured major artists such as Queens of the Stone Age, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Self Esteem, McFly, Courteeners and Olly Murs, alongside aerialists, acrobats, fire performers and interactive attractions designed to reimagine the traditional festival experience.

Festival director Ali O’Reilly said: “We’re absolutely honoured to receive the Best Programming award. 

“Rock N Roll Circus was born from the idea of doing things differently - creating an event where incredible live music and world-class circus performance come together in a way that feels genuinely immersive. 

“This recognition means the world to us. 

“We were up against giants like The O2 and Co-Op Live and we’re so thrilled. 

“It’s a testament to every artist, performer, crew member and, most importantly, to the local communities who have been behind us since day one.  

“They believe in what we’re building.”

The award comes as Rock N Roll Circus prepares for its biggest year to date. 

In 2026, the festival will return to both Sheffield and Norwich, building on strong demand and growing audiences in each location. 

In Sheffield, the August Bank Holiday weekend will see the event staged once again at Don Valley Bowl, with Richard Ashcroft and The Streets confirmed as headliners and further announcements still to come.

Meanwhile in Norwich, the festival will return to Earlham Park following a successful debut, with The Streets, Madness and The Kooks among the acts already revealed. 

Ali added: “To be recognised by our industry peers is a huge milestone, but it also fuels our ambition. 

“Rock N Roll Circus has grown rapidly in a short space of time, and 2026 marks a new chapter. 

“Sheffield and Norwich are both incredibly special to us, and we’re committed to delivering unforgettable experiences for both cities next year. 

“Winning Best Programming gives us even more confidence to push boundaries and create something extraordinary.”

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