Overview

• The Mercury Prize will be hosted outside London for the first time, with Newcastle's Utilita Arena as the venue for the October 16 ceremony.
• The event is part of a new partnership with Newcastle City Council and the North East Combined Authority to promote regional cultural development.
• A shortlist of 12 albums will be announced on September 10, with entries for the prize opening on June 4 and closing on June 25.
• BBC Music will broadcast the ceremony, which will feature performances from many of the shortlisted artists.
• Music development agency Generator will organize a week-long fringe programme to highlight and celebrate local talent in the North East.