Q&A-Sides with Stuart Murdoch (Belle and Sebastian)

An Acoustic and in-conversation with Chris Hawkins.

Live in The Cockpit at Shakespeare North Playhouse

Step into the spellbinding acoustics of The Cockpit Theatre—a space steeped in storytelling tradition—for a truly unmissable evening with Stuart Murdoch, the visionary behind Belle and Sebastian.

In this rare and intimate setting, Shakespeare North Playhouse is thrilled to present an evening with Stuart who will be in conversation with the brilliant Chris Hawkins (BBC Radio 6 Music), sharing songs, stories, and secrets from his iconic career. From the poetic streets of Glasgow to stages around the world, hear firsthand about the moments that shaped his music—and his brand new novel, Nobody’s Empire.

Expect reflections, revelations, and resonances that only a venue like this can offer. The Cockpit’s architecture invites every note and word to linger in the air just a moment longer, creating a deep, emotional connection between artist and audience.

Chris Hawkins—described by Matt Haig as “a master interviewer”—will guide the conversation with warmth, insight, and a deep love of music.

This is more than a talk. It’s a happening. A shared moment in an acoustic jewel-box of a theatre. One night only.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of it!

Chris Hawkins 

Chris presents a daily show on BBC Radio 6 Music (5 – 7.30am) and has interviewed some of music’s biggest stars, including Calvin Harris; The Killers; Florence Welch; Dave Grohl; Bjork and Jack White. He is a notable champion of 2019 Brits Critics Choice Winner, Sam Fender. 

Chris is also a Radio 4 documentary presenter. His critically acclaimed series exploring music and mental health followed an in-depth programme about music and politics. He is among a select number of presenters to host Radio 4’s prestigious, Pick of the Week. He is also regular voice on BBC Radio 5 live. On screen, Chris appears on BBC Breakfast TV, BBC News and has presented films for BBC Inside Out. 

He is a popular host and DJ, as well as a successful voice over artist. He writes blogs for the BBC website and has written for the Huffington Post, Music Week and UK Music. 

Chris recently appeared on Pointless Celebrities and captained the victorious Nottingham University team on Celebrity University Challenge. He is also a Celebrity Mastermind runner-up…his specialist subject? Coronation Street. 

Chris has made cameo appearances in the BBC 1 daytime drama Doctors and played Dylan Thomas at the Dylan Thomas Theatre in Swansea. 

Chris is proud to chair the Nordoff Robbins Manchester Network and to be an Ambassador for the Prince’s Trust. 

Chris Hawkins Quotes 

Sunday Times (Gillian Reynolds), “Chris Hawkins, the great of tomorrow” 

The Telegraph, “A thoughtful, intellectually supple presenter” 

The Guardian, “lovely music, sense of humour, and warm interaction with listeners.” 

Matt Haig, “Chris is a master interviewer” 

Lemn Sissay MBE, “A pleasure and an honour to work with. It was special” 

Brian Blessed, “An excellent host and interviewer”