Harry Styles to perform with orchestra at Meltdown festival
Former member of One Direction, Harry Styles, will be showcasing his musical talents alongside an orchestra during London’s Meltdown festival in 2026. The acclaimed singer is not only headlining but also curating the event, held annually at the Royal Festival Hall within London’s Southbank Centre. Styles will collaborate with the Jules Buckley Orchestra, where the orchestra’s leader will produce new arrangements of Styles’ songs for this unique performance.
Reflecting on his upcoming collaboration, the 32-year-old Watermelon Sugar artist expressed his excitement to work with Jules Buckley, particularly after their collaboration on “Coming Up Roses” from his latest album “Kiss All The Time, Disco, Occasionally.” Speaking highly of Buckley, Styles commended his talent and collaborative spirit, emphasizing their successful partnership leading up to the Together, Together tour. Styles remarked how the opportunity to curate Meltdown was the perfect occasion to create something truly special with Buckley.
The performance scheduled for June 16 aims to raise funds for the Southbank Centre’s charitable endeavors to support young individuals in the arts. Fans can participate in a prize draw opening on Wednesday for a chance to win tickets to this exclusive event. Entries are priced at £20 each, with fans allowed up to three entries for a pair of tickets at the 1,900-seat venue.
Mark Ball, the artistic director at the Southbank Centre, highlighted the charitable aspect of this year’s Meltdown festival, recognizing Styles’ commitment to sustaining access to creativity for young people in need. The prize draw serves as a means to support the Southbank Centre’s artistic and community programs, especially during a time where access to arts and creativity significantly impacts the well-being of young individuals.
Joining the lineup curated by Styles are notable acts like indie band Warpaint, Belgian electroclash band Soulwax, and British singer-songwriter Nilufer Yanya. Styles’ involvement in curating the festival aligns him with past iconic artists who have contributed to Meltdown’s success, including David Bowie and Patti Smith.
Aside from his festival duties, Styles is set to kick off his Together, Together tour this month in support of his latest album. The tour will feature 12 nights at Wembley Stadium, with Styles poised to break the record for the most performances at the venue in a single year. Styles’ continued success and artistic endeavors have solidified his presence in the music industry, showcasing both his talent and dedication to his craft.