Frank Turner to headline ABLE2UK’s Stop The Shadows disability fundraiser at Clapham Grand
Frank Turner will play a special headline set at the 25th anniversary edition of Stop The Shadows, the flagship fundraising event for disability charity ABLE2UK, taking place at London’s Clapham Grand on 5 September. Further artists are due to be announced in the coming weeks.
Stop The Shadows aims to tackle the hidden epidemic of loneliness within the disabled community. ABLE2UK points to a stark disparity: nearly two-thirds (61%) of disabled adults experience chronic loneliness, compared with just 6% of the general population. Money raised from the night will go directly towards improving accessibility at independent venues and live music events, with the goal of ensuring more disabled people can experience live music.
Howard Thorpe, founder of ABLE2UK, framed the issue in practical terms. “Most of us look forward to our favourite band or artist announcing a tour with anticipation about being successful buying a ticket,” he said. “But imagine if you are unable to attend a gig not because you were not able to purchase a ticket…but because the venue was not accessible for your needs.”
Thorpe acknowledged that the music industry has made strides but stressed the financial pressure on smaller spaces. “The music industry has improved accessibility at gigs across the country over the years, but in parallel we hear about more independent venues being forced to close. ABLE2UK wants to step in and help fund their access.” He added that the charity’s newly secured registered status gives it a stronger footing. “No one should be left out going to a gig just because the venue is inaccessible.”
Turner, who became an ABLE2UK trustee following his first Stop The Shadows appearance, said the event had personal significance. “I am excited and honoured to be playing my second Stop The Shadows event, and my first since I became a trustee of Able2UK. It’s an incredibly important charity, doing great work, and I can’t wait to celebrate their 25th anniversary with Howard and the gang at the legendary Clapham Grand; it’ll be an evening to remember.”
The punk-folk singer holds a Guinness World Record for performing 15 acoustic shows in 24 hours across the UK in 2024, an effort mounted in support of grassroots music venues and independent record stores. His live reputation will underpin a night that combines live music, entertainment, and fundraising.
Pre-sale tickets go live on Wednesday 22 July at 10am, with general sale following on Friday 24 July at 10am.
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