Next Stage
A showcase event for young artists and musicians aged between 18-26.Next Stage – new music showcase event, aimed for musicians and artists aged 18-26, was organised by Espoo's Cultural Venues and Services for the first time in spring 2026.
The event consisted of a preliminary round based on a recording, three live semi-finals during the spring and culminated in the final organised in Sello Hall, Leppävaara, at the end of May. In the live events, each performer received verbal feedback from the professional panel, the aim of which was to help the performers develop and advance in their careers. One performer from each semi-final proceeded to the final.
All three performers who reached the final was be paid a performance fee (€1000) for their final performance and received the Mimmi Label promotion or artist career package (value €750) according to their choice. Among the final three, one performer was selected to perform at the Kivenlahti Midsummer event at Hybridiarena Hype, on Fri 19 June. In addition, the Finnish Music Creators’ Association awarded one performer from among the finalists with a Music Creators’ special award and the audience also got to vote for the favourite.
Further information:
Liina Sipilä, Senior Producer
liina.sipila@espoo.fi
