The run up to Switch On was punctuated by many of the perennial themes. There was the usual difference of opinion on whether the line up was up to scratch. There was some upset about people trying to sell on free wristbands. So if you weren’t there, either because the acts didn’t appeal or you couldn’t get in, the question you probably want answering is ‘was it any good’. Yes it was, and what follows is a summary of some of the ten reasons why it was.
1. The Tower Festival Headland Can Be A Great Venue
Whilst it has had its share of critics there is no doubt that on a nice summer evening the Festival Headland is a great venue. As the sun began to head over the horizon the views of the Irish Sea and the piers were stunning. When the weather plays ball, as it resoundingly did this year, it’s a great place to be.

2. Strong Stage Presence
In their different ways the headline acts all made a big impact, particularly the larger than life Fatman Scoop. The Vamps energetically covered the ground, being picky it was rather too obvious they weren’t playing their own instruments but their obvious fan base in the crowd didn’t care.
3. A Great Song Is A Great Song
Several of the acts were using covers and extensive sampling. But in a fast moving concert aiming to appeal to a diverse audience this is not a bad strategy. In particular Uptown Funk got a couple of airings, including Fleur East’s once controversial version.
4. Bass Jumping
No that isn’t a misprint, and I know the base jumping on the Prom was a week or so back. But several of the acts had thumping bass lines and audience participation of the jump in the air variety. It may be formulaic but the crowd seemed to love it overall.

5. Diversity Provided By… Diversity
At the risk of stating the obvious street dance isn’t the normal fare of the Switch On concert. So the London based Britain’s Got Talent winners offered something different but still with the sound and light spectacle of all the other acts.
6. A Strong Undercard
Sometimes on these occasions the first hour or so can include some wholly unmemorable performances. This wasn’t the case on this occasion, with in particular a couple of acts who often ply their trade at the overlooking Beach House (Verity Kinnon and former S Club Junior Stacey McClean) giving accomplished sets.

7. Razzle Dazzle
In keeping with an event leading up to an illuminations spectacular, there was plenty of visual appeal on the stage including shooting smoke screens, large showers of confetti and fireballs soaring into the sky.
8. A Switch On Celeb With Local Passion
Whilst many people may have been surprised by the announcement of Dame Barbara Windsor as the switch on star she has extensive ties with the resort. She was evacuated here during World War Two, and learned to dance at Norbreck Primary school whose pupils presented her with flowers at the concert.

9. Finding Time For The Crowd
It was good to see many of the acts, and others due to perform in the Winter Gardens Slimefest concerts, taking time to interact with the crowd. Many took some time to pose for selfies, which bring me onto…
10. The Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / Snapchat concert
It isn’t my own cup of tea, but it clearly works for others. Several of the acts took selfies of themselves with the crowd behind, with ‘jumping’ it was the leitmotif of the night. The mobile phone is to the modern day concert what popcorn is to a cinema visit, and it won’t change any time soon.
So, what did you think of Switch On 2016? Agree with us, disagree with us? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Images courtesy of Jay Clapp.
Show Comments (1)
Kitty Lee
The whole day was amazing – seeing new young boyband on stage District 12 was the highlight for me.