Holly Johnson, ABC and Heaven 17 bring a taste of the 80s to Scarborough Open Air Theatre
Singer-songwriter and 80s icon Holly Johnson will bring a taste of Hollywood to Scarborough as he headlines a spectacular night next summer.
The former Frankie Goes To Hollywood frontman and successful solo artist will headline TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre on Friday August 14, joined by special guests ABC and Heaven 17.
Tickets go on sale via scarboroughopenairtheatre.com and ticketmaster.co.uk at 10am, Friday November 21.
Holly Johnson first came to fame as the charismatic lead vocalist and lyricist of Frankie Goes to Hollywood who achieved huge success as one of the biggest selling bands of the 1980s.
With his distinctive voice, flamboyant stage presence, and unapologetically bold persona, Frankie was the voice of their huge number one hits Relax, Two Tribes and The Power of Love – which created the group’s reputation for provocative, cinematic pop that combined social commentary with irresistible dance rhythms.
After leaving the band in 1987, Holly forged a solo career launch with album Blast and singles Love Train, Americanos and Atomic City.
Beyond music, Johnson is an internationally recognised visual artist and writer.
His paintings and mixed-media works often explore themes of identity, fame, and survival.
He has also remained a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ visibility and human rights, using his platform to advocate for equality and acceptance.
Earlier this year, he toured the UK and Europe marking the 40th anniversary of Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s debut album Welcome To The Pleasuredome.
Joining Holly Johnson in Scarborough will be Lexicon Of Love hitmakers ABC.
Founded in Sheffield, ABC were pioneers of the sophisti-pop and new pop movements, who went on to achieve 10 Top 40 singles between 1981 and 1990, including Tears Are Not Enough, How To Be A Millionaire, Be Near Me and When Smokey Sings.
In 2016, frontman Martin Fry released The Lexicon of Love II – securing the group’s first Top 10 album in more than 25 years. This week sees the conclusion of their Lexicon Of Love orchestral tour – performing the timeless debut album in its entirety alongside their hits catalogue.
Fellow Sheffield band, synth-pop stars Heaven 17 complete the line up – bringing hits such as Temptation, Crushed by the Wheels of Industry and Come Live With Me to the Yorkshire Coast.
Formed in the Yorkshire city, Martyn Ware (keyboards, drum machine, vocals) and Ian Craig Marsh (keyboards) were initially founding members of The Human League, before they joined forces with vocalist Glenn Gregory.
Holly Johnson joins The Streets, Scissor Sisters, Madness, Rick Astley, Garbage and Skunk Anansie, James Taylor, Deacon Blue, Alex James’ Britpop Classical, Paul Weller, James Arthur, Billy Ocean, Pete Tong’s Ibiza Classics, David Gray and American vocal powerhouse Teddy Swims among the headliners already announced for TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre 2026.
Julian Murray, of Scarborough OAT promoters Cuffe and Taylor, said: “What a fantastic night this will be for any 80s music lovers out there!
"Bringing together a truly exceptional performer like Holly Johnson with two outstanding bands.
"Add to that, ABC’s and Heaven 17’s Yorkshire roots – and you know we’re in for an absolute treat here at the spectacular Open Air Theatre.”