British pop trailblazers Cleopatra are bringing infectious energy, soulful harmonies and powerhouse vocals to The Tung Auditorium this September in partnership with BlackFest, Liverpool’s grassroots Black Arts festival.
Returning to the city on Friday 25 September, 2026 – almost two decades since their last Liverpool-based performance – both organisers and fans are delighted to welcome them back for a nostalgic evening of pop bangers.
Cleopatra, comprised of Mancunian sisters Cleopatra, Zainam and Yonah Higgins, burst onto the music scene in the late 1990s, quickly captivating audiences with their dynamic and charismatic performances – and earning their special place in music history as the first all female black British group to achieve mainstream success.
Born into a musical family, Cleopatra’s passion for music was nurtured from an early age. Influenced by a diverse range of genres, including R&B, pop, and soul, the sisters honed their vocal talents through years of dedication and practice, setting them apart in an industry dominated by boy bands and girl groups.
In 1998, Cleopatra entered the music scene with their debut single, ‘Cleopatra’s Theme’. The song, characterised by its catchy hooks and infectious beats, became an instant hit, catapulting the group into the spotlight and garnering widespread acclaim. ‘Cleopatra’s Theme’ soared up the charts, reaching the top five in the UK Singles Chart and earning the trio a coveted BRIT Award nomination for Best British Newcomer.
Buoyed by the success of their debut single, Cleopatra continued to make waves with their debut album, Comin’ Atcha! Released in 1998, the album showcased the group’s versatility and musical prowess, featuring a mix of upbeat anthems, heartfelt ballads, and empowering girl-power anthems. Tracks like ‘Life Ain’t Easy’ and ‘A Touch of Love’ resonated with audiences, solidifying Cleopatra’s status as a pop sensation.
Throughout their career, Cleopatra remained true to their roots, using their platform to inspire and empower young fans around the world. With their message of self-confidence, resilience, and sisterhood, the group became role models for a generation of aspiring musicians, particularly young women of colour, who saw themselves reflected in Cleopatra’s success.
Though their time in the spotlight was relatively brief, Cleopatra’s impact on the music industry continues to be felt to this day. Their groundbreaking achievements paved the way for future generations of black British artists, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of pop music.
Cleopatra will be supported by Liverpudlian singer-songwriter, pianist and musical arranger, Hayli Kincade. Hayli has devoted her career to developing other artists as a holistic vocal and performance coach, while building a rich practice in musicianship, performance and artist development.
Having performed internationally and singing alongside artists including Pharrell Williams, Andrea Bocelli, John Legend and Jennifer Hudson, Hayli has more recently felt guided to share her own original music and compositions. Her work blends soulful vocals and heartfelt storytelling, drawing on her love of gospel, jazz and contemporary soul.
Founder of Level Up Vocals, Fellow Music Lecturer at LIPA University and finalist for ‘Merseyside Woman of the Year’ (2023), Hayli is widely known in the wider music scene and is recognised for her community contribution within the arts.
Don’t miss Cleopatra and Yonah Higgins at the Tung Auditorium this September, presented in partnership with BlackFest. Tickets here: thetungauditorium.com/events/cleopatra-2.
