From Fan to DJ: Friends Live Festival Dream

Three best friends are experiencing a remarkable 'full-circle' moment, transitioning from festival-goers to performers at the Emerge festival.

Andrew Cairns, Ben Donnelly, and Reece Harvey have attended the Emerge festival annually since its inception four years ago. This weekend, they will collectively perform on stage, a stark contrast to their previous attendance as part of the massive crowd.

Andrew's connection to the festival runs deep; he previously spent two summers as a rigger, helping to build the stage, lights, and visuals. He made his Emerge DJ debut two years ago on the Emerging stage, a platform for local talent, and has since performed internationally.

This year's festival is particularly special as Ben and Reece will make their Emerge debuts alongside Andrew. For Ben, the reality of performing is still sinking in, describing it as an unbelievable opportunity that he never imagined would be possible. Reece, who started DJing eight years ago, found the Emerge festival in 2022 to be his first-ever festival experience, making this upcoming performance a dream come true.

The Emerge festival, expecting approximately 20,000 attendees daily, takes place at Boucher Road Playing Fields in Belfast on Saturday, August 29, and Sunday, August 30. Headline acts include Hannah Laing and blk. The festival is strictly for individuals aged 17 and over, requiring ID for entry, and will conclude around 22:45 BST on both nights. Ticketmaster has day and weekend tickets available.