Robert Smith to Curate 2026 Teenage Cancer Trust Concert Series at Royal Albert Hall

Key Points

• The Cure’s Robert Smith will curate the 2026 Teenage Cancer Trust concert series.

• The lineup features Garbage, My Bloody Valentine, Mogwai, Chvrches, and more.

• The annual benefit week runs March 23–29, 2026, at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

• The series includes both music and a star-studded comedy night.

• Tickets go on sale December 12 at 9 a.m. local time.

A New Era Begins for the Teenage Cancer Trust Concerts

Robert Smith is ushering in a new chapter for the Teenage Cancer Trust’s famed annual concert series. The Cure frontman has taken over curatorial duties for the 2026 edition, following the departure of longtime organizer and co-founder Roger Daltrey, who led the event for 24 years.

The weeklong benefit, a cornerstone of the Trust’s fundraising efforts, will return to London’s Royal Albert Hall in late March with one of its most ambitious and eclectic lineups to date.

A Week of Landmark Performances Across Genres

Star-Studded Musical Lineup

The 2026 series will run from March 23 to March 29 and include a wide spectrum of acts:

• March 23: Opening night starring Elbow and Mrcy

• March 24: Comedy night with Maisie Adam, Bridget Christie, Jack Dee, Dara Ó Briain, and others

• March 25: Mogwai, Craven Faults, and special guest Annika Kilkenny

• March 27: My Bloody Valentine and a special stripped-back set from Chvrches

• March 28: Garbage and Placebo performing intimate, scaled-down sets

• March 29: Final night featuring Wolf Alice and Nilüfer Yanya

The mix of alternative rock heavyweights, rising acts, and standout comedians highlights Smith’s eclectic curatorial style.

Continuing a Legacy of Impactful Fundraising

Each year, the Teenage Cancer Trust concerts raise critical funds for the organization’s dedicated hospital units, youth workers, and specialized nurses who support young people navigating cancer treatment.

Daltrey, who helped launch the series in 2000, generated over $40 million in donations through the event. Past lineups have featured Oasis, Coldplay, The Who, and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.

Smith acknowledged the legacy he is inheriting, saying:
“Teenage Cancer Trust does the most fantastic work, and it is a great honor — and a real thrill — to be asked to curate the 2026 shows. I can promise it will be a very memorable week!”

Why This Year Matters

Smith’s involvement marks the first major transition in the series’ leadership since its creation. His influence is expected to attract a broad audience, spanning longtime Cure fans as well as followers of the diverse acts he has selected.

For the organization, the 2026 shows arrive at a pivotal moment as awareness and funding needs continue to grow nationwide. The high-profile lineup ensures both visibility and momentum heading into the next decade of programming.

What Happens Next?

Tickets go on sale December 12 at 9 a.m. local time, with details available through the Teenage Cancer Trust website.

Given the high demand historically associated with these benefit concerts—and Smith’s global fanbase—the weeklong series is expected to sell out quickly.

As March approaches, additional surprises, guest appearances, or special collaborations may be announced, generating even more excitement around one of the UK’s most significant annual charity events.