Holly Johnson

Holly Johnson Celebrates 40th Anniversary of Welcome To The Pleasuredome with Sheffield Show Added

Welcome to Yorkshire

News • October 4th, 2024

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Music fans and Frankie Goes to Hollywood fans, rejoice—Holly Johnson is coming to Sheffield! New dates have been added to the Welcome to the Pleasuredome 40th Anniversary Tour and due to public demand Sheffield City Hall will host one of these special shows in the beautiful Oval Hall on 3rd June 2025. If you love the sounds of 80s anthems like "Relax" and "Two Tribes" this is a night not to be missed.

This tour marks 40 years since Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s debut album Welcome to the Pleasuredome was released making them one of the most important bands of their time. The music, the energy and the atmosphere will all be there as Holly takes us back to a time when big, bold, unapologetic tunes ruled the charts.

A legendary career, 40 years on

Holly Johnson’s career is the dream of most artists. From leading Frankie Goes to Hollywood to global stardom, being a champion for LGBTQ+ rights and being a solo artist, his story is one of longevity and impact. Now 40 years on fans old and new can experience the songs that defined an era performed by the man who helped create them.

During the tour Holly will be performing fan favourites like the infamous "Relax", the political "Two Tribes" and the beautiful "The Power of Love". The energy of these songs still resonates today so this anniversary tour is not to be missed if you ever danced or were moved by the music of Frankie Goes to Hollywood.

In his own words Holly Johnson says,

"I can’t believe it’s been 40 years since Welcome to the Pleasuredome was released. It’s been an amazing journey. I’m looking forward to celebrating this milestone with a special tour for the fans and maybe a 40th anniversary box set. Watch this space..."

New exhibition: The Holly Johnson Story

But that’s not all. Holly Johnson isn’t just celebrating through music. Last month he launched "The Holly Johnson Story" at the Museum of Liverpool. Running until 27th July 2025 this exhibition goes into Holly’s life from his Liverpool roots to international stardom.

The exhibit features personal memorabilia, iconic costumes and artwork and the stories of those whose lives have been affected by HIV, a cause close to Holly’s heart. As one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ figures of his time Holly’s story is not just about music but about representation, resilience and activism.

If you are in Liverpool before July 2025 you should definitely check out the exhibit for a deeper look into the life of one of pop’s most famous voices.

Sheffield City Hall: A legendary venue for a legendary tour

For the Sheffield date it’s not just the music you’ll be enjoying. The venue itself—Sheffield City Hall—has a rich history that adds to the experience. Since 1932 this iconic venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music and entertainment and now Holly Johnson will be added to that list.

The Oval Hall where the show will be held seats over 2,200 people and is known for its beautiful design. Three tiers means great views from every seat so wherever you are you’ll feel part of the action. And with the venue’s history of hosting legendary shows it’s the perfect place for Holly Johnson’s celebratory show.

Get your tickets!

Fans wanting to attend the Sheffield show can get their tickets during the presale, starting Thursday 3rd October 2024 at 9am by signing up for the Sheffield City Hall newsletter. General sale is the following day Friday 4th October 2024 at 9am. Tickets will sell fast so mark your calendars!

Tickets can be bought from the Sheffield City Hall website and signing up early will give you the best chance to get a seat for what will be a night to remember. You won’t want to miss Holly Johnson live re-igniting the magic of the 80s with new energy.

What to expect from the anniversary show

This isn’t just a nostalgia trip—Holly’s bringing something new to the table. Fans can expect a brand new production with stunning visuals, new arrangements and of course Holly’s voice. He’s always been an artist who’s pushed boundaries and even 40 years on he’s going to do the same. This celebration will showcase his timeless hits and show how far he’s come since those early days with Frankie Goes to Hollywood.

Whether you were there the first time around or you’ve discovered Holly Johnson’s music more recently this tour has the perfect mix of old and new.

An LGBTQ+ icon’s lasting legacy

Holly Johnson’s influence goes beyond music. As an LGBTQ+ icon his visibility and activism has helped create a more inclusive world for many people. His work has always been about more than music—it’s been about equality and many of the stories in his new exhibit are about that.

In the 80s “Relax” wasn’t just a pop hit it was a statement that challenged the status quo, a voice for the marginalised. That message combined with Holly’s ongoing HIV awareness work continues to resonate today.

The Sheffield City Hall show is more than a concert it’s a celebration of how far we’ve come not just musically but socially too.

The clock is ticking

Holly’s Sheffield date is now added to the Welcome to the Pleasuredome 40th Anniversary Tour. The excitement is building. This tour will be a fantastic tribute to one of the biggest albums of the 80s, bringing fans together to re-live the magic of Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s biggest hits. Don’t miss out on seeing a pop icon.

Now go! Set your reminders, sign up for the presale and get ready for Holly Johnson at Sheffield City Hall!

More info on the tour and Holly’s exhibit here and here: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube

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