Laura Marling has announced two exclusive live performances set to take place at Manchester’s Albert Hall on March 5th and 6th, 2025. These shows are her only scheduled concerts for the year, making them a rare opportunity for fans to experience her music live. Given Marling’s selective approach to touring in recent years, the announcement has generated considerable excitement, with tickets expected to sell quickly when they go on sale on February 4th.
These concerts will also mark Marling’s return to Manchester for the first time since her last tour in 2021. To make the performances even more special, she will be accompanied by a string ensemble, adding a rich and orchestral depth to her arrangements. This unique setup is expected to bring new life to both her latest songs and past favourites, making these shows an unmissable experience for long-time listeners and new fans alike.
Widely regarded as one of the UK’s most accomplished folk singer-songwriters, Marling first emerged in the late 2000s as part of the nu-folk movement. Drawing inspiration from classic artists like Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, and Bob Dylan, her music is known for its intricate acoustic melodies, poetic lyricism, and forward-thinking themes. Over the years, she has released eight studio albums, each showcasing her evolution as a musician. From the raw, narrative-driven sound of ‘Once I Was an Eagle’ to the important feminist themes of ‘Semper Femina’, Marling has continued to push boundaries within the folk genre, earning world-wide success and a dedicated fanbase along the way.
The decision to limit her 2025 live appearances to these two Manchester dates is largely influenced by her personal life. In 2023, Marling became a mother, a shift that has deeply impacted her creative direction and work-life balance. Her latest album, ‘Patterns in Repeat’, released in 2024 which these two shows are in aid of, reflects this new chapter in her life, exploring themes of family, change, and self-reflection. Written and recorded in her home studio, the album takes a stripped-back, minimalist approach, allowing Marling’s delicate yet powerful vocals to take centre stage. These upcoming performances will give fans the first chance to hear ‘Patterns in Repeat’ live, alongside selections from her extensive catalogue.
Marling has never been one to follow industry trends or fall under the pressures of relentless touring. Instead, she has remained steadfast in her commitment to creating music on her own terms. The choice to perform exclusively in Manchester highlights her selective approach to live performances, ensuring that each show is meaningful and carefully curated making her a completely unique artist.
With her unmistakable voice, poetic storytelling, and deeply personal songwriting, Laura Marling’s return to the stage in 2025 is set to be a standout moment in the music calendar. These two performances will not only celebrate her latest work but also reaffirm her status as one of the most compelling and authentic voices in contemporary folk music.
Ticket information can be found here.
