Scarborough Open Air Theatre 2027: Here's 27 dream acts our readers want to see next summer

It has been another spectacular summer at Scarborough Open Air Theatre – and as the curtain comes down on a record-breaking 2026 season, we asked Scarborough News readers to name the acts they would most like to see at the venue next year.

The response was incredible, with us receiving more than 1,300 comments from readers naming their favourite acts. Suggestions ranged from global pop superstars and legendary rock bands to rap icons, indie favourites and returning Scarborough favourites.

The final show of the 2026 season was a landmark moment for Scarborough Open Air Theatre, marking the 200th headline music show at the venue since it reopened to the public in 2010.

This year also saw a record-breaking 175,000 tickets sold, with gig-goers travelling to Scarborough from more than 60 countries – providing a major boost for the local economy.

Among the most popular suggestions were some of the biggest names in music, including The Killers, Beyoncé, Def Leppard, Take That, Yungblud, The Pet Shop Boys and Lady Gaga.

There was also plenty of love for artists who have already performed at the venue. Teddy Swims, Duran Duran, Pulp, Simple Minds, The Human League, Hollywood Vampires and Sam Fender were all among the acts readers would be delighted to welcome back to the Yorkshire coast.

It wasn't just music stars that readers had in mind, with many saying they would love to see more comedy at the Open Air Theatre following Bill Bailey’s popular appearance.

Others suggested bringing West End musicals and pantomimes to the venue, with Six the Musical proving a particularly popular idea.

There were also calls for the season to be made longer, giving visitors even more opportunities to enjoy live entertainment during the summer.

A number of readers wanted to see something completely different, with suggestions including dedicated tribute or country music festivals to bring a new dimension to the venue's programme.

From chart-topping pop stars to rock legends, the choices demonstrate just how eclectic Scarborough's musical tastes are.

In no particular order, we've rounded up 27 of the most popular acts suggested by our readers – so take a look through our gallery below and see which stars Scarborough wants to see on the Open Air Theatre stage in 2027.

Did your dream act make the list? Let us know who you would love to see perform at the venue next summer.