What’s next for Wigan’s music ecene? These 13-year-old DJs have an answer

Wigan was once home to some of the most iconic music subcultures in the world.

Young people ay opportunities to experience music are now disappearing, but they’re determined to change that.

From the legendary Wigan Casino, the global home of Northern Soul, to the energy of Wigan Pier and the town’s rich club scene history, Wigan has long been a place where music didn’t just exist, it defined generations.

But today, that culture feels out of reach for many young people.

With rising ticket prices, fewer grassroots venues, and limited under-18s events, young people are increasingly locked out of music spaces, with no safe, accessible environments to discover new sounds or express themselves.

At the heart of tackling that is Wigan Youth Zone, a purpose-built youth facility in the town centre, open seven days a week, providing young people aged wight to 19 (up to 25 with additional needs) a safe space where young people can try new things, develop their passions and connect with others.

Alongside over 20 activities every session, Wigan Youth Zone has built a growing reputation for its music offer, from DJing and music production to live performance opportunities, giving young people access to equipment, mentoring and real pathways into the creative industry that would otherwise be out of reach.

Now, two young DJs from the Youth Zone are bringing that culture back in their own way.

DJ Leo B and DJ Oliver Newton present Our House: a brand-new, youth-led DJ event designed to give young people a space to experience house music, connect with others, and be part of something bigger.

Taking place on Thursday July 30 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at The Venue (the event space next door to Wigan Youth Zone), the event will feature live DJ sets, house and dance anthems, mocktails, and a safe, high-energy environment built entirely around young people.

Created by young people, for young people, Our House is more than just a night of music, it’s about rebuilding a culture that once put Wigan on the map.

Leo B, 13, said: “Through Wigan Youth Zone I’ve been able to properly get into house music and DJing, it’s something I’m genuinely passionate about.

“I’m already getting paid DJ slots, which is mad at my age.

“This event is about giving other young people that same opportunity, not just to hear this music, but to express themselves through it, through DJing, dancing, whatever that looks like for them.”

Oliver Newton, 13, added: “It’s a shame because there’s not really anywhere for young people to go and experience music like this anymore.

“We can’t just go to gigs, tickets are like £70 or more for big artists, and that’s not realistic.

“There’s also nowhere safe where you can just discover music in general.

“That’s why this event matters, it gives people that space.”

The event has been made possible through support from the Chance To See Fund, helping young people bring their ideas to life and create opportunities for others.

Youth worker and music studio engineer, Matthew Pye, who has supported both DJs, said: “I’ve seen these lads since they were about nine, and they’ve become completely consumed by this music.

“That level of passion is so rare, and so special.

“At 13, they’re already some of the best DJs in Wigan and beyond.

“I genuinely can’t wait to see what their future holds.”

Event Details: 📅 Thursday July 30 ⏰ 6.30pm –to 8.30pm 📍 The Venue, Wigan Youth Zone, Parsons Walk, WN1 1RU 🎧 Featuring special guest DJ Tom2Trax

Open to young people aged 11 to 19 (up to 25 with additional needs), the event will also offer opportunities for aspiring DJs to get involved in future line-ups.

Booking is advised.

Get your tickets here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/our-house-dj-event-tickets-1993441115037?aff=oddtdtcreator

As traditional music spaces decline, Our House represents a new generation reclaiming Wigan’s musical legacy, creating something that is inclusive, accessible, and built for young people today.