Shirley Manson will take charge of curating the Teenage Cancer Trust’s 2027 concert series, stepping into the role for next year’s Royal Albert Hall shows following Robert Smith’s acclaimed stint in 2026.
The charity confirmed the news on Tuesday (28.04.26), unveiling the Garbage bandleader as only the second guest curator in the event’s history.
To mark the announcement, Teenage Cancer Trust also released a video of Garbage’s striking performance of The Cure’s Lovesong from their appearance at this year’s shows.
Manson follows in the footsteps of Sir Roger Daltrey, who launched and curated the week-long fundraising series from 2000 to 2025, and Robert Smith, who assembled the 2026 line-up.
Smith’s programme brought together Wolf Alice, Elbow, Manic Street Preachers, My Bloody Valentine, Mogwai and Garbage, alongside a packed comedy night, raising £1.4 million so far for young people with cancer across the UK.
Reflecting on her appointment, Manson said: “To follow in the footsteps of the great Sir Roger Daltrey and most beloved Robert Smith by being invited to curate next year’s run of shows is one of the greatest honours that has ever been bestowed upon me.
“I consider it an immense privilege to continue helping raise funds and awareness for our all too often forgotten teenagers in the UK who are living with cancer and the struggle that this entails.
“I hope to curate a fine week of entertainment, calling upon some of my favourite artists to join the cause.
“I am so looking forward to seeing it all come together at the Royal Albert Hall next year and I hope to see you there.”
Smith praised both Manson and the impact of this year’s shows, saying: “Having played a few Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall shows with The Cure, it was a real honour to curate the series in 2026, bringing together so many of my favourite artists to perform for such a great cause.
“The response and support from the audience, in the hall itself and all around the world, was really incredible.
“Garbage were one of the highlights of a stellar week, and I am very sure Shirley, with her great energy, commitment and values, will do a fantastic job in 2027.”
Daltrey also welcomed the news, adding: “To have a female musician with a great reputation for quality work is something that’s been at the top of my wishlist going forward.
“I will always be there for her if she needs any help with anything.”
The 2027 Teenage Cancer Trust shows will run from March 15 to 21 at the Royal Albert Hall, with the full line-up to be unveiled in the coming months.
