CQAF 2026 / music / Craig Charles

Craig Charles

Craig Charles

Mandela Hall

Saturday 9 May, 8.00pm

£20.00

Buy Tickets

DJ Support from Superfly Funk & Soul Belfast 

Craig Charles is a multifaceted talent whose career spans across television, radio, and the music industry. As an actor, he gained widespread acclaim for his role as Dave Lister in the cult sci-fi sitcom Red Dwarf, a role he reprised for several decades, endearing him to audiences worldwide.

Beyond Red Dwarf, Craig has showcased his versatility as an actor with roles in acclaimed dramas like Coronation Street and The Scousers, establishing himself as one of the most recognisable faces on British television. In addition to his acting prowess, Craig Charles has also made a significant impact in the world of radio.

His eclectic taste in music and charismatic on-air persona have made him a beloved figure on BBC Radio 6 Music, where has hosted The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show since 2002. Renowned for his deep knowledge of funk, soul, and dance music, Craig has garnered a dedicated following of listeners who tune in to his show for its infectious energy and stellar playlist.

His contributions to the music industry were further recognised when he won the Digital Radio Personality of the Year award at the Sony Radio Academy Awards. Outside of his broadcasting career, Craig Charles has made waves as a DJ, bringing his infectious blend of funk and soul to clubs and festivals around the world. With his dynamic DJ sets and unparalleled stage presence, he has become a mainstay at renowned events such as Glastonbury Festival, Kendal Calling and Boogietown.

Charles’s passion for music and his ability to command a dance floor have solidified his reputation as one of the most influential DJs in the funk and soul scene, earning him a devoted fan base and cementing his legacy as a true icon of British entertainment.

Tickets also available from:
Visit Belfast | 028 90 246 609
9 Donegall Square North - Open 7 days a Week

CQAF 2026 Music

Robert Finley: CQAF Opening Concert

Robert Finley: CQAF Opening Concert

The Empire Music Hall

Wednesday 29 April, 8.00pm

The Stray Gaiters: The Music of Neil Young

The Stray Gaiters: The Music of Neil Young

The Black Box

Thursday 30 April, 8.00pm

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Carsie Blanton + Special Guests The Burning Hell

The Duncairn

Thursday 30 April, 8.00pm

Laraaji

Presented by Moving on Music and Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival

Laraaji

The MAC

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Landless at Carlisle Memorial Church

Landless at Carlisle Memorial Church

Carlisle Memorial Church - Belfast BT14 6AT

Friday 1 May, 8.00pm

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Oh Yeah Centre

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Ani Glass and special guests IMLÉ | agus aíonna speisialta IMLÉ

Áras Mhic Reachtain

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Cerys Hafana

In association with The Duncairn

Cerys Hafana

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Oh Yeah Music Centre

Sunday 3 May, 2.00pm - 7.00pm 

London African Gospel Choir Celebrate 40 Years of Paul Simon’s Graceland

London African Gospel Choir Celebrate 40 Years of Paul Simon’s Graceland

Mandela Hall

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Guy Davis

In association with Old Flattop

Guy Davis

The Crescent Arts Centre

Thursday 7 May, 8.00pm

Moon Songs: The Phoebe Bridgers Project/Amhráin na Gealaí: Tionscadal Phoebe Bridgers

Moon Songs: The Phoebe Bridgers Project/Amhráin na Gealaí: Tionscadal Phoebe Bridgers

Áras Mhic Reachtain

Aoine 8 Bealtaine | Friday 8 May, 8:00pm

The Steve White Trio

Right On Promotions Present

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The Deer’s Head

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da Googie + Cara Tivey present The Golden Thread

Oh Yeah Music Centre and CQAF presents

da Googie + Cara Tivey present The Golden Thread

The Oh Yeah Centre

Friday 8 May, 8.00pm

Martin Simpson presents…A Celebration of Dick Gaughan

Martin Simpson presents…A Celebration of Dick Gaughan

The Black Box

Sunday 10 May, 8.00pm 

2026 Artist in Residence – Eve Belle

2026 Artist in Residence – Eve Belle

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The Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival and Out To Lunch are annual festivals of music, comedy, theatre, art and literature which take place in January and May in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

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Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival / Out To Lunch Arts Festival
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BT1 1LU