St Stephen’s shopping centre, Hull’s most stylish retail and leisure destination, is introducing its Alive After Five programme starting this Friday 2nd May and running across the summer.

The programme will see a range of Hull’s local bands and vocalists performing in the centre every Friday at 5.30, with a different act taking to the stage each week. The performances are free and are a great opportunity to listen to some of the city’s most popular acts and bands – many of which regularly play in the area’s top music venues and festivals.

Jim Harris, Centre Manager at St Stephen’s says: “We think this is a great way to encourage people to stay on in the city centre after work on a Friday for a bite to eat or a few drinks with friends. We’re going to be providing a relaxed atmosphere where people can sit back for an hour or two and enjoy some free music from Hull’s home-grown talent. We’ll have a different act on every Friday from May 2nd. We’re expecting a great atmosphere in the centre as people make the transition from the working day into the start of the weekend.”

St Stephen’s has a fully-equipped gym, Fit24, that’s open 24 hours 7 days a week on its terrace near to where the bands will play. Mr Harris expects that gym-goers will also enjoy the acoustic sounds as well as diners in St Stephen’s restaurants.

Showcasing Hull’s home-grown talent The centre makes a significant contribution to the local community and is particularly focussed on helping to raise the aspirations and skills of local young people. In keeping with this, the Alive After Five’ programme is giving Hull’s young musicians a forum to showcase what they can do and an opportunity for people to listen and enjoy it.

Jim explains: “There’ll be a very relaxed, acoustic ambience in the centre – very laid-back and low-key, but our aim is to use the Alive After Five programme to kick-off Hull’s evening scene. The bands will be playing popular covers as well as their own music and will appeal to all ages. We’re encouraging everyone to come along after work on a Friday – have a drink in one of our cafes and restaurants and soak up the atmosphere. What better way to kick-start the weekend!”

The performances will take place on the first-floor terrace Chill Out Zone in St Stephen’s, opposite Starbucks.

For more information on acts, visit the St Stephen's Facebook page