The kick-start Brits
Arlo emotional about performing as awards show welcomes fans
BRIT Awards nominee Arlo Parks has spoken of her joy at the return of fans at next month’s ceremony, saying: “It’s going to be a really uplifting, hopeful moment.” The 20-year-old – tied with Dua Lipa with three nominations – is set to perform in front of 4,000 fans with no masks or social-distancing. She said: “It’s going to be a very emotional moment together not to mention very surreal seeing all these faces. Everyone is going to be energized and refreshed after a year of nothing. People have been looking to experience music again. Hopefully this is just the beginning.” More than half the audience will be made up from specially-selected key workers via a ballot. Gig-goers must have proof of a negative lateral flow test result to enter London’s O2 Arena – a plan backed by Arlo. She said: “I think testing will be key to minimise risk and people being able to access these tests at their local pharmacy… I think that will increase the safety of everyone. “Everyone wants gigs to come back and not to close anything down again.” The star is nominated for Album of the Year, Best New Artist and Best British Female Solo Artist.
And she admits she has never even been to a show at the O2 Arena before, let alone perform there.
“It’s the most amount of people I’ve ever played to,” she says. “I haven’t even played a headline show in London yet. It’s going to be beautiful, not least in front of all the key workers who have supported everyone. I just hope everyone likes the show I put on.” Dua Lipa, Griff and Headie One are also scheduled to perform during the ceremony, which will be hosted by comic Jack Whitehall. The frontline worker tickets are a thank you for “hard work and selfless commitment”, say bosses. Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, said: “This year’s awards will be particularly special.” ■ To enter the key worker ballot, go to www.brits.co.uk.
Everyone wants gigs back and not to close down again
ARLO PARKS BRIT NOMINEE & PERFORMER