Eight eighties icons - including The Human League and Bananarama - are set to take to the stage at Darlington Arena in 2025 for an all-day festival.

80s Calling has confirmed it will be hosting a summer show at the arena on Sunday, August 24, 2025, headlined by synth-pop band and ‘Don’t You Want Me’ hitmakers The Human League.

The retro revival will also feature special guests, including Bananarama and Spandau Ballet frontman Tony Hadley, as well as The Christians, The Farm, Toyah, Altered Images, and T’Pau. 

80s Calling! at Darlington Arena80s Calling! at Darlington Arena (Image: LIZ HOBBS GROUP)

The 80s Calling! festival was initially due to take place on August 31 this year - featuring several of the same names as the 2025 lineup and more, such as Level 42 and Holly Johnson.

However, the event was cancelled in July, with no official reason behind the decision being given at the time. 

For next year’s event, the gates will open at 12pm, with festival goers promised a day “filled with evocative fun and some of the greatest tunes from the decade!”

The Human League formed in 1977 and went on to have a string of hits including ‘Together In Electric Dreams’ and ‘Tell Me When.’ 

The line-up consists of lead singer Philip Oakey, who has been the only consistent member since 1977, and vocalists Joanne Catherall and Susan Anne Sulley, who joined in 1981.  

Meanwhile, Bananarama, made up of Sara Dallin and Keren Woodward, have sold more than 30 million records, and are best known for hits including ‘Venus’ and ‘Cruel Summer’.

Spandau Ballet’s Tony Hadley will also take to the stage, and will no doubt perform hits from both his solo career and time with the band.

Tickets for 80s Calling! go on general sale at 10am on Friday, December 6, 2024, and are priced from £49.50 + booking fee. 

Hospitality packages and VIP upgrades are also available, and accessible tickets can be purchased directly from Ticketmaster.

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Liz Doogan-Hobbs MBE, CEO of LHG Events, said “We're thrilled to announce this show and to be returning to Darlington Arena, and we are certain 80s Calling! is going to prove a huge hit with fans who not only remember the artists the first time around, but also newer fans who embrace the retro revival, or just want to enjoy top tunes in a spectacular summer setting. 

“We hope to see as many of you there as possible and encourage you to dress your own take on 80s style and really embrace the spirit of the day. Bring on the neon, bring on the shades, and let’s have a party!”

Tickets are available from www.lhgtickets.com and Ticketmaster.